Five Favorites - Japanese Comfort Food
If you’re looking for authentic Japanese comfort food, this is the list for you. I’ve selected some of my favorite restaurants where you can enjoy delicious Japanese dishes, with Japanese chefs/owners. I have not included spots that serve primarily sushi - you can find my list of favorite sushi restaurants here.
Futami, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
Futami
Futami is wonderfully low-key despite its location, and still under the radar for many - which makes it even more lovable! They offer a great lunch deal, but their regular menu is also highly recommended. They do serve sushi as well, if you’d like to give it a try (spoiler alert: it’s great!).
Futami, C. d'Enric Granados, 10, L'Eixample, 08007 Barcelona.
Takoyaki at Yatai, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
Yatai
Yatai’s menu is extensive, so be prepared! With so many options, it’s hard to choose, but you’re sure to find your favorite Japanese comfort food here. The takoyaki and okonomiyaki are fantastic, and the lunch deal is excellent. Be sure to go early or book a table. Read my review here.
Yatai, Carrer del Comte d'Urgell, 112, L'Eixample, 08011 Barcelona.
La Coco, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
La Coco
La Coco is stylish but not overly fancy—just the right amount of comfort. Tucked away on a side street in Gràcia, it’s a small place, so be sure to book in advance. They offer a weekday lunch menu, but I recommend exploring their à la carte options so you don’t miss out on anything. Be sure to ask about their wines, too; they're very knowledgeable about local varieties, and it's fun to pair them with their delicious dishes. Read my review here.
La Coco, Carrer d'Aulèstia i Pijoan, 6, Gràcia, 08012 Barcelona.
Aiueno, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
Aiueno
Aiueno is a unique spot, offering delicious Japanese tapas, some with a subtle nod to Spanish flavors. Despite the slight fusion in some dishes, it remains very authentic and is worth visiting for a true Japanese experience, with wonderfully light tempura, fermented dishes, and more. They also offer a great lunch deal—just be sure to book in advance! Read my review here.
Aiueno, C/ del Rosselló, 296, L'Eixample, 08037 Barcelona.
Usagui, Barcelona. Photo © Barcelona Food Experience.
Usagui
Usagui is a café with an unbeatable and very popular lunch deal, so be sure to book a table if you plan to have a meal here. The dishes are homely and authentic. If you visit outside of lunch hours, don’t miss their wonderful homemade cakes. Read my review here.
Usagui, C. de les Santjoanistes, 28, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08006 Barcelona.
Also check out Una Mica de Japó, Kasa Hanaka, Mikan (Northeast Asian), Shoronpo, Fujitaka Teppan Okonomiyaki in Badalona, and Ramen-Ya Hiro.
