Awesome Japanese Restaurant in Sydney CBD – Nazimi Japanese Restaurant

Nazimi Japanese Restaurant: My Go-To Authentic Japanese Gem in Sydney CBD

If you’re hunting for a true taste of Tokyo right in the heart of Sydney, Nazimi Japanese Restaurant on York Street is hands-down one of my all-time favorites. I’ve been coming back here for years, and every visit feels like stepping into a cozy, no-fuss eatery in Japan—fresh, flavorful, and full of that genuine hospitality.

Nazimi has been delighting Sydney diners for over 20 years (established in the early 2000s, a testament to its consistent quality and loyal following. Tucked downstairs just behind the iconic Queen Victoria Building (QVB), it’s a quick 2-minute walk from Town Hall Station—super convenient for CBD workers, shoppers, or anyone craving real Japanese food without the hype.

The space is small and intimate (seats around 30 people), with simple, traditional decor that hasn’t changed much over the years—and that’s part of the charm. It’s not flashy; it’s about the food. Midweek visits are easy for walk-ins, but on Thursdays, Fridays, or Saturdays, definitely call ahead to reserve (02 9283 2990) as it fills up fast with locals and regulars.

What I Ate on My Recent Visits (All Hits!)

• Sushi Platter (6 pieces): The fish is incredibly fresh—melt-in-your-mouth quality with that perfect balance of rice and topping. The wasabi is real, fresh-grated, and packs a sharp, clean kick (none of that green paste nonsense). Pure perfection.
• Agedashi Tofu: One of my absolute favorite vegetarian dishes here. Crispy-on-the-outside, silky-soft tofu in a deeply savory, umami-rich agedashi sauce with bonito flakes dancing on top. Comforting and addictive.
• Sashimi Platter: Super fresh selection including Tasmanian scallops (a rare treat—sweet, tender, and buttery; they sat beautifully between the lemon slices in my photo), alongside classic tuna and salmon. First time trying sashimi scallops, and they were outstanding.
• Yakitori Chicken Skewers: Tender, juicy chicken with just the right char for that smoky, BBQ flavor. I could easily devour 10—these are dangerously good!

The staff are genuinely lovely—warm, attentive Japanese hospitality at its best. They remembered me from previous visits and even thanked me personally for coming back. Little touches like that make you feel valued.

One cool perk: A sign by the register offers a 3% discount if you pay cash—smart move in these high-credit-card-fee times, and surprisingly rare these days!

Other Popular Dishes to Try Next Time

From reviews and the menu buzz, here are some crowd favorites I’ll be eyeing on my next visit:

• Tuna Tataki (seared tuna with ponzu—fresh and zingy)
• Karaage Chicken (crispy, juicy fried chicken—always a winner)
• Softshell Crab Tartlet or Tempura items
• Unagi Kabayaki (grilled eel—sweet-savory glaze perfection)
• Wagyu Steak or Teriyaki Chicken mains
• Dragon Roll or creative sushi rolls
• Creamy Eggplant (nasu dengaku-style, rich and indulgent)
• Takoyaki or Gyoza for fun bites

Nazimi delivers authentic, high-quality Japanese food at reasonable prices in a welcoming, unpretentious setting. It’s not about the Instagram backdrop—it’s about the freshness and flavor that keeps me (and so many others) coming back. If you’re in Sydney CBD and want real-deal Japanese without the crowds or pretense, this is your spot.I’ll be back soon—probably for more yakitori and that agedashi tofu!

Have you tried Nazimi? What’s your must-order? Drop it below!

Nazimi Japanese Restaurant
141 York Street
Sydney NSW 2000
Ph: (02) 9283 2990

Website: https://nazimi.com.au/

Open Monday-Saturday
Lunch 11:30am – 03:00pm
Dinner 05:00pm – 09:00pm

Check out the location of Nazimi Japanese Restaurant in Sydney CBD