At a rather unexpected location lies one of the best, if not the best, Japanese sushi restaurants in Budapest. Just a few steps from Corvin-negyed metro station awaits the discreet wonder of Kicsi Japán. ("small Japan").
From the outside, one might not know what to expect, but as you step inside, all the details fall into place. When a friend first brought me here, without me knowing anything about the place, the moment I set foot inside, I had no doubt I was in the right spot for truly authentic Japanese food and atmosphere.
Kicsi Japán is, unsurprisingly, very different from the classic dining venues in Budapest in many ways. It’s rather quiet, with no harsh lighting; it’s modest and measured in a good way. The food is undoubtedly top quality — fresh and expertly made. I also enjoy the variety of Japanese beers you can try here.
The menu is thoughtfully set together. Besides sushi, they serve a variety of different dishes, such as healthy bowls and desserts.
In 2024, they opened another Kicsi Japán near Nyugati train station, this time adding 'dining' to its name. The interior here is more cleared-out, uncluttered, and less peculiar. Personally, I prefer the one at Corvin with all its unique peculiarities. It's a place that really drags me out of your Central European reality for the sake of a calm and exceptionally delicious dinner.
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