Ultimate Guide to ALL Epcot Japanese Restaurants 2024 (menus, ambience, comparison and more!)

Are you trying to figure out which EPCOT Japanese restaurants are the best for your trip?

EPCOT attracts foodies from around the world to its theme parks with an extraordinary gastronomic scene.

The food offerings at EPCOT encompasses everything from traditional Japanese dessert to a delicious platter of authentic Japanese sushi.

In this article, I will guide those of you who are in pursuit of scrummy Japanese dishes.

Here is a list of the best EPCOT Japanese restaurants.

Epcot Japan Pavilion Mitsukoshi Restaurants Teppan Edo and Tokyo Dining. Keep reading to find out which EPCOT Japanese Restaurant is the BEST?

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1. Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya (Table-Service Restaurant)

It is hard to make an EPCOT Japanese Restaurant list without Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya. It is the go-to place for pescatarians and foodie lovers alike.

Housed in a traditional Japanese building, the diner sits on top of the popular Mitsukoshi Department Store.

Epcot Japan Pavilion View from atop the Mitsukoshi restaurants

Sprawled across the second floor, it shares space with yet another sought-after Japanese restaurant EPCOT, Teppan Edo (scroll down for more on Teppan Edo).

Ambiance at This EPCOT Japanese Restaurant

Boasting clean, dim-lit interior and minimal furnishing, Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya has an upscale bar-like feel.

The cool recessed lighting relies on the views of the World Showcase Lagoon.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot view from Japanese Restaurant

The large windows offer views of a pictorial scenery similar to what you might see in Tokyo.

You can admire the sight outside or/and watch the chef create masterpieces at the Sushi Bar.

Inside Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya is also a screen that features iconic Japanese sites and beautiful seasons of this country that transports you to the Land of the Rising Sun.

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Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya Dining Menu at EPCOT

The EPCOT restaurant serves delicious surf appetizers like Kara-age Chicken, edamame, and clam miso soup.

Perhaps, the unmissable dishes include the Tokyo Negi Roll that comes with green onion tempura rolled with tuna tataki and topped with jalapeño aïoli, shredded carrot, and sliced jalapeño.

Epcot Theme Park Disney World Shiki-Sai Sushi Izakaya restaurant in Japan Pavilion Tokyo Negi Roll. One of the best restaurants at Epcot.
Tokyo Negi Roll

This one has a smokey flavor combined with the spiciness of the jalapeño aïoli and crunch of the shredded carrot.

I can’t believe I have finally tasted some incredible sushi at EPCOT! You don’t want to skip this dish.

Shiki-Sai Sushi Izakaya Restaurant in Epcot Japan Pavilion Tuna Nigiri with Crunchy Shrimp Sushi roll. Keep reading to find out which EPCOT Japanese Restaurant is the BEST?
Tuna Nigiri with Crunchy Shrimp Sushi roll

The turf options include the likes of the Grilled Wagyu Gyoza and my favorite, the Ishiyaki-Sukiyaki Rice.

Epcot Theme Park Disney World Shiki-Sai Sushi Izakaya restaurant in Japan Pavilion Ishiyaki-Sukiyaki Rice with Tokyo Negi Roll
Tokyo Negi Roll (on the left) and Ishiyaki-Sukiyaki Rice (on the right)

It’s one of the best things to to eat at EPCOT!

The Ishiyaki-Sukiyaki Rice comes with grilled strips of beef in hot stone bowl at your tableside along with spinach and rice in a sweet garlic sauce.

There are vegetarian dishes here as well.

The beverage selection brims with options like martinis, vodka, juices, frappes, and gin cocktails. Talk about an adult Disney trip going right!

And you’ll want to try the Violet Sake. It tastes like an adult Jolly Rancher!

Best Food at Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya:

  • Ishiyaki-Sukiyaki Rice: Grilled strips of beef in hot stone bowl at your tableside along with spinach and rice in a sweet garlic sauce
  • Grilled Wagyu Gyoza 3 pc: Pan fried dumplings filled with smoky A5 Japanese wagyu beef
  • Rock Shrimp Tempura: Crispy shrimp tossed in creamy yuzu sauce
  • Kara-age Chicken: Japanese-style fried chicken flavored with garlic and ginger and served with lemon
  • Tokyo Negi Roll: Green onion tempura rolled with tuna tataki and topped with jalapeño aïoli, shredded carrot, and sliced jalapeño
  • Tokyo Sunset: Sunset-colored cocktail with pineapple, coconut rum & orange juice with a splash of grenadine
  • Violet Sake

You can check out their complete menu here.

How Much Does it Cost to Eat at Shiki-Sai?

The food prices are on the higher side between $8 to $120. However, you can expect to pay around $35 to $40 per person.

Do You Need Advanced Reservation?

Being popular, Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya gets houseful quickly It is best to book in advance.

Tokyo Dining Restaurant in Epcot Japan Pavilion View out the window overlooking World Showcase Lagoon. Keep reading to find out which EPCOT Japanese Restaurant is the BEST?

Final Verdict on Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya Review

Apart from its cultural authenticity, delicious surf-n-turf menu, and great prices, the restaurant is also known for its top-notch service.

Cast Members here bring Tokyo to EPCOT with their Japanese hospitality.

I rate Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya an 9/10 and recommend you get ready to bow.

2. Katsura Grill (Counter-Service Restaurant)

Perched atop a slight hill, the Katsura Grill EPCOT sits at the very back of the Japan Pavilion and is almost a hidden gem.

Epcot Japan Pavilion Drummers and Katsura Grill Menu. Keep reading to find out which EPCOT Japanese Restaurant is the BEST?

Come here, not just to taste the scrummy dishes, but also to enjoy the stunning pavilion views and escape the bustling of the World Showcase.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot Koi Pond and Garden

The back area around this place is a nice quiet place to relax that not too many people know about.

Ambiance at This Restaurant

This EPCOT Japanese restaurant boasts ample outdoor seating with incredible views and illuminating lanterns.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot Katsura Grill Quiet Eating Area

It sits in a manicured garden and patios, where you reach by crossing a wooden bridge.

Epcot Japan Pavilion Katsura Grill. Keep reading to find out which EPCOT Japanese Restaurant is the BEST?

Set in a picturesque natural setting, the restaurant overlooks a koi pond. To sum it up, the place shows off quaint, castle-in-the-woods feel.

The inspiration of this bookish charm comes from Kyoto’s 17th-century, Katsura Imperial Villa – hence, the name Katsura Grill.

WATCH NEXT: Top 5 BEST Quick Service Restaurants at Epcot!

Katsura Grill Menu

The menu here offers fairly unique dishes for a quick service theme park restaurant.

Japan Pavilion Sushi Roll

In addition to sushi, teriyaki, and udon, there is edamame too.

If you are on a special diet, the restaurant’s steamed rice and salad with serve as the healthiest option at the park.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot Katsura Grill Menu

You’ll also be interested in their iced green tea and delicious Shrimp Tempura Udon soup.

If you are a green tea connoisseur with a sweet tooth, try their Green Tea Cheesecake, it’s satiating.

Epcot Drink Around the World Passport

At Katsura Grill, you can complete the traditional Japanese order with sake (cold or hot), or opt for craft beer, plum wine, and cocktails.

How Pricey is Katsura Grill?

The prices are just as you’d expect from a quick service in WDW.

The sushi rolls here are around $12, the Shrimp Tempura Udon is $14, and teriyaki fares up to $16. Plus, the entrées at Katsura Grill start at $14 and go up to $16.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot Katsura Grill Restaurant Menu

Do You Need an Advance Reservation?

Although semi-hidden, the restaurant can fill quickly during peak season. However, reservations are not offered for this quick service restaurant at EPCOT.

Final Verdict on Katsura Grill Review

Set in the beautiful scenery, offering a comprehensive menu, and boasting lovely imperial architecture, Katsura Grill is a heart-winning EPCOT Japanese restaurant.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot Katsura Grill Exterior

In my opinion, it is 7/10.

3. Kabuki Café (Kiosk Service)

I know, I know! Not a restaurant. But Kabuki Café is definitely a must-try kiosk in EPCOT. There’s more to the Japan Pavilion that just sushi and teriyaki.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot Kabuki Cafe. Keep reading to find out which EPCOT Japanese Restaurant is the BEST?

It may not serve the upscale traditional dishes, but it is a wholesome stop to sample Japan’s street food.

Ambiance at This Kiosk

No interior plus street-style setting equals casual roadside feel. But, notice the architecture. It flaunts a Japanese style roof, artsy boards, lanterns, and minimal accents.

2024 Epcot Food and Wine Festival at Disney Japan Pavilion Kabuki Cafe Sake Slushie Shaved Ice. One of the best Japanese Restaurants at Epcot.

Kabuki Café Menu

As expected, the menu isn’t anything like the upscale Japanese restaurants in EPCOT. Instead, savory frozen treats are the specialty here.

Stop by the kiosk to taste its highlight snack – Kakigori, shaved ice dipped in fruit syrup.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot Kabuki Cafe Menu. Keep reading to find out which EPCOT Japanese Restaurant is the BEST?

Other must-tries include Sake Mists and Spicy Roll. Apart from the nibbles, you also get alcoholic beverages like plum wine, draft beer, and Sake Mist.

How Pricey is Kabuki Café?

The Kakigori comes in several flavors, and depending on it, the snacks can cost anywhere between $4.50-$5.50.

2024 Epcot Food and Wine Festival at Disney Japan Pavilion Kabuki Cafe Sake Slushie Shaved Ice

Sushi and edamame are also available for a similar price that goes up to $6. The beverage prices range between $8-$11, Sake Mist being the most expensive.

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Do You Need an Advance Reservation?

There is no need for reservations to stop by this kiosk.

2024 Epcot Food and Wine Festival at Disney Japan Pavilion Kabuki Cafe Sake Slushie Shaved Ice

Final Verdict on Kabuki Café Review

For a kiosk, Kabuki Café is a must-visit for foodies.

With its more-comprehensive-than-expected menu, the eatery deserves a 7/10.

4. Teppan Edo (The Hibachi Restaurant in EPCOT)

Watch the incredible art of gastronomy as chef flips vegetables, jokes about shrimp tail, and makes a pun about sauces.

If you are traveling with kids and would like to distract them to enjoy a peaceful meal, then Teppan Edo is the spot for you.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot Architecture

On the other side, if you aren’t a fan of communal dining, then Teppan Edo isn’t the restaurant for you. Here, you sit in groups of eight around the hibachi grill tables.

Ambiance at This Restaurant

Teppan Edo is a table-service Japanese steakhouse-like restaurant boasting elegant, pagoda-style architecture.

The interior consists of multiple rooms, each with its several teppanyaki stations.

Since the restaurant shares space with Tokyo Dining, it also shares the dim-lit, high-end ambiance. The furniture is kept minimal, and walls flaunt Japanese art.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot Teppan Edo Orlando Hibachi Restaurant. Keep reading to find out which EPCOT Japanese Restaurant is the BEST?

However, there’s a wrinkle in its elegance.

Due to the spacious seating area, the restaurant might feel less authentic to some against the intimate, small-seating restaurants of Japan (not the pavilion).

Teppan Edo Menu

The menu here is a subtle fusion of American-Japanese cuisine. Beyond the hibachi dishes and seven-piece sushi sampler, it includes California Roll, NY Cut Steak, and Julienned Steak.

Best Japanese Restaurants in Epcot Teppan Edo and Tokyo Dining Sign. Keep reading to find out which EPCOT Japanese Restaurant is the BEST?

Accompanying the menu is a wide selection of beverages, including sake, wine, beer, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks.

To put it simply, if you liked Benihana, you will like Teppan Edo.

Recommended: 10 BEST Places to Get Hibachi in Orlando

How Pricey is Teppan Edo?

Teppan Edo prices are very similar to the rest of the top Japanese restaurants in EPCOT. The appetizers start at $6.50 for Miso Soup, going up to $16.50 for Soy Butter Calamari.

You can order sushi for $18, entrées for $34, and combos for $4236. It is the add-ons and enhancements like Wagyu Steak that can hike the bill by $120.

Do You Need an Advance Reservation?

Making reservations beforehand is highly recommended.

Final Verdict on Teppan Edo Review

You will love to visit the restaurant for its side entertainment, hibachi-style food, and familiar dishes.

Even if you have visited a local teppanyaki restaurant, I’d suggest you still experience dining at Teppan Edo.

Epcot Theme Park Disney World Teppan Edo Restaurant Violet Sake Cocktail in Japan Pavilion
Violet Sake Cocktail

I give this restaurant a strong 8/10!

5. Takumi Tei (The Best Japanese Restaurant in EPCOT)

Takumi Tei is a signature EPCOT restaurant housed in the ultimate tall-pagoda edifice.

With its unique architecture, delicious food, and traditional omakase dining, Takumi Tei, despite being new, out-famed the popular Teppan Edo.

Ambiance at This Restaurant

The setting of Takumi Tei exudes tranquility amidst the boisterous park.

Various colors and textures decorate the wall, soothing music plays in the background, the aroma of delicious food fills the air, and purposely-plated dishes boast creative presentation.

Five themes remain dominant throughout the interior – wood, stone, paper, earth, and water – and are reflected in the haikus displays.

In short, Takumi Tei gets as sophisticated and artistic as it can get.

Takumi Tei Menu

This EPCOT Japanese restaurant offers a slew of unique dishes on the Omakase Tasting Menu with seven options to pick from.

Add to the drink selection featuring Japanese beer, wine, mimosa, and cocktails are also incredible!

Epcot Theme Park in Disney Japan Pavilion Takumi Tei with tea ceremony. One of the best Japanese Restaurants in Epcot.
Tea Ceremony at Takumi Tei in EPCOT

How much does it cost to eat at Takumi Tei in EPCOT?

The prices are Takumi Tei are between $100 and a whopping $250. On average, you can expect to spend around $310 per person for a wholesome dining experience.

Do You Need an Advance Reservation?

Advance reservation for Takumi Tei is highly recommended.

Final Verdict on Takumi Tei Review

Takumi Tie is the place to enjoy a good meal for the ultimate foodie.

From brilliant architecture to a traditional ambiance and eclectic menu, the restaurant excels at everything.

I give it a 10/10 EPCOT Japanese restaurant!

What to Know Before You Go to Epcot

Now that you are confident about choosing the best EPCOT Japanese restaurant for your trip, let’s go through a few of the most common questions.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot The Castle Garden

Is it worth going to EPCOT just for dining purposes?

The park is totally worth visiting to sample the multi-international Disney food. Unfortunately, there is no dining-only ticket.

Epcot Japan Pavilion View from atop the Mitsukoshi restaurants. Keep reading to find out which EPCOT Japanese Restaurant is the BEST?

So, you will have the option to enjoy a full day at the theme park.

Is EPCOT Japanese dining kid-friendly?

Yes. The restaurants at EPCOT include an exclusive Kid’s Menu. Takumi Tie also has a Kid’s Dessert Menu.

Do EPCOT Japan restaurants have dress codes?

No, you can wear casual theme park attire to the restaurants.

Epcot Japan Pavilion View from the top overlooking World Showcase Lagoon. Keep reading to find out which EPCOT Japanese Restaurant is the BEST?
Japan Pavilion at Epcot

What time can I start drinking at EPCOT?

When you are in EPCOT, drinking around the world can start between 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Drinking Around the World Epcot Passport
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Let’s Wrap It Up

Dotted by over 50 restaurants in EPCOT, dining here can get really overwhelming.

You definitely won’t want to settle for the gloppy hibachi, when you want to dig into something a bit more unique to Japan.

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival in Japan Pavilion Beef with Frushi and Cucumber Drink
Epcot Flower and Garden Festival in Japan Pavilion Beef Tataki, with Frushi and Cucumber Cocktail.

It is exactly why I have curated this detailed list of best EPCOT Japanese restaurants. From sushi and sake to their prices.

Don’t forget to check out the little kiosk in front of the Mitsukoshi Department Store for an intoxicating EPCOT cocktail!

Epcot Japan Pavilion View from the Top

Everything about these eateries are explained just for you, so you come up with a well-informed EPCOT dining plan itinerary.

Which Epcot Japanese restaurant is the best?
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どうぞお召し上がりください (enjoy your meal)!

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

Hoop Dee Doo Revue NikkyJ Dinner Show Disney World. Author bio of theme park expert Nikida Metellus.

About the Author

My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!

Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.

Connect with me on Instagram!

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(Original Article Date: November 26, 2020/Updated March 6, 2024)

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