Best Hidden Gems Japanese Restaurants in Williamsburg
3 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Shalom Japan
Jewish-Japanese plates and sake in a cozy, chef-driven neighborhood spot.
Notable Picks
#1
Shalom Japan
8.6
Shalom Japan blends Jewish and Japanese traditions into dishes like lox bowls, okonomiyaki with pastrami, and refined small plates in a warm, brick-lined dining room. It’s a South Williamsburg fixture for creative cooking that still feels grounded and personal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lox bowl with sushi rice, Okonomiyaki with pastrami, Miso ramen matzo ball soup
What Makes it Special: Jewish-Japanese plates and sake in a cozy, chef-driven neighborhood spot.
#2
Enso
8.4
Enso is a design-forward omakase on Berry Street inspired by Kyoto-style minimalism, with a chef’s counter, lounge, and garden that all run fixed-course tastings. Early reviews highlight precise nigiri, cocktails, and a room that feels like a quieter, more intimate alternative to Manhattan omakase temples.
Must-Try Dishes:
16-course omakase tasting, Katsuo tataki, Hojicha pudding
What Makes it Special: Kyoto-inspired omakase where the room, cocktails, and sushi all feel choreographed together.
Worthy Picks
7.7
Nem’s Japandi Bistro is an all-day cafe off North 6th that blends Japanese comfort food with Scandinavian-influenced design and a casual coffee-bar feel. Feedback on execution is mixed, but for locals it works as a low-pressure spot to grab Japanese-leaning breakfast, sandos, and lighter plates in a calm setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Japanese-style pancakes or French toast, Katsu or egg sando, Seasonal donburi bowl
What Makes it Special: Japandi-style cafe that leans Japanese on the plate and Scandinavian in the room.