🇯🇵 3 of THE BEST Japanese Restaurants in Indiana

By Jeremy Schwegmann
BlogDestinationsIndianaJapanese RestaurantRestaurants

Indiana’s Japanese food scene is a flavor-packed passport—no luggage required. Forget sushi stereotypes; these two spots rewrite the rules with every bite. 

Think smoky grills, whisper-thin noodles, and chefs who treat each plate like edible art. Newcomers, buckle up: your chopsticks are in for a ride.

🇯🇵 Sakura Japanese Restaurant

Craving sushi so fresh it practically swims to your table? 🍣✨

Sakura Japanese Restaurant in Indianapolis has been slinging flavor-packed rolls and sizzling entrees since 1987, earning a cult following for its authentic eats and vibrant energy.

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With a menu that’s equal parts tradition and creativity, this spot turns first-timers into regulars faster than you can say “arigato!” 🎌🍥

Food Highlights

  • Dragon Roll: A California roll crowned with smoky eel and drizzled in sweet eel sauce—rich, savory, and Instagram-ready.
  • Sukiyaki: Thinly sliced beef, tofu, and veggies simmered in a hot pot with a sweet-savory broth—perfect for sharing (or not!).
  • Shrimp Tempura: Crispy, golden-fried shrimp and veggies served with a tangy dipping sauce—a crowd-pleaser since Day One.
  • Chicken Katsu Don: Deep-fried chicken cutlet smothered in egg and onions over rice—comfort food with a crunch.
  • Softshell Crab Roll: Tempura-battered crab wrapped in sushi rice—crunchy, briny, and utterly addictive.
Dragon roll! Raena

Atmosphere

Step into a cozy, bustling space where the hum of conversation mixes with the clatter of chopsticks.

The sushi bar takes center stage, letting diners watch chefs craft rolls with razor-sharp precision.

It’s lively but never loud, with friendly servers who treat regulars like family.

Why It’s One of the Best in Indiana

Sakura blends decades of expertise with a menu that’s both timeless and inventive.

From melt-in-your-mouth sashimi to herby miso soup, every dish screams freshness.

Loyal fans swear by its VIP card perks and lunch specials—proof that good food and good vibes keep folks coming back24.

Address: 7201 N Keystone Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46240

🇯🇵 Kansai Japanese Steakhouse

Fire up the grill and grab your chopsticks—Kansai Japanese Steakhouse delivers a showstopping dining experience! 🔥🎉

With sizzling teppanyaki theatrics, sushi that’s rolled with flair, and chefs who crack jokes while flipping shrimp into their hats, this spot turns dinner into a party.

Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just craving melt-in-your-mouth salmon, it’s where flavor meets fun. 🍣🎂

Food Highlights

  • Geisha Special: A USDA strip loin steak and juicy chicken duo, seared to perfection on the hibachi grill. Meat lovers crowd this crowd-pleaser.
  • Derby Roll: Deep-fried shrimp meets spicy crab and avocado, topped with crunchy tempura flakes. A texture explosion praised by regulars.
  • Mango Roll: Sweet mango slices crown spicy crab and tempura shrimp, drizzled with eel sauce. Tropical vibes on a plate.
  • Vegetarian Dinner: Garden-fresh veggies sautĂ©ed with ginger sauce—a flavor-packed option for plant-based pals.
  • Volcano Roll: Spicy tuna erupts over a California roll, blending heat and creaminess. Instagram-worthy and addictive.

Atmosphere

Diners rave about the high-energy vibe as chefs juggle utensils, crack eggs one-handed, and light onion volcanoes ablaze. 🎆

The open grills create a communal feel, while the private room (fits 30!) hosts rowdy celebrations.

Expect laughter, sizzle sounds, and maybe a shrimp tossed your way.

Why It’s One of the Best in Indiana

Kansai masters the double threat: fresh, skillfully prepared dishes and pure entertainment.

Their hibachi chefs train for years, ensuring every bite—and joke—lands perfectly.

Plus, the massive sushi menu caters to adventurers and traditionalists alike.

Address: 1370 Veterans Parkway, Clarksville, IN 47129