Zenkichi Berlin – Modern Japanese Brasserie

The best Japanese restaurant in Berlin by a mile

We are super excited to report. Finally there is a Japanese restaurant in Berlin that we can be totally proud of: ZENKICHI MODERN JAPANESE BRASSERIE. Let me try to explain.

Let’s start with the unlikely location. Zenkichi is located on a cross street from Friedrichstrasse a few steps from the Oranienburger Tor (U6) or Oranienburgerstrasse S-Bahn subway stations. In fact, it is located at the same “nondescript” building as our beloved brunch place: House of Small Wonder. Both establishments belong to the same owners.

To get to Zenkichi, just take the first door on the left as you walk in. You will be take downstairs to an underground maze of Japanese sleek and natural elements. We particularly like the Enjoy a sake based cocktail at the bar or get seated at your own little alcove where you’ll get to enjoy the best Japanese meal in town. BY A MILE. And yes, it is as close to Japanese fine dining as you will get in Berlin.

At Zenkichi the menu centers around seasonal Japanese small plates. The dishes are prepared with extreme care and the flavours are beautifully subtle. You can choose to have an Omakase experience (an 8 course tasting menu – minimum 2 persons) or you can order à la Carte. We totally suggest the Omakase. Not to be missed are the Miso Black Cod and the Silk Tofu in Dashi. The Sake menu is impressive and one should not leave the restaurant without sampling some. No wine is served here. Embrace the experience!

The ambiance is dark and somewhat quiet. Every “alcove” is isolated so there is very little interaction between your group and the other guests. That’s the idea. Not the place to see or be seen. The experience here centers on food and the experience of sharing it with your own group. The staff is very friendly and attentive. We are coming back many times over.