Naoki

Locals and tourists agree on this one. One of the best, if not the best, Japanese restaurant in Latin America. The restaurant is small and tremendously popular so you can expect a bit of a wait for a table, even with reservations, at anything even approaching a peak time there will likely be a wait.

Due to the popularity of the restaurant, they opened a bar specifically designed to provide patrons a place to lounge while waiting for a table. What better way to start a Japanese dinner celebration than with a fancy cocktail?

Décor? Sophisticated minimalist with subtle Japanese overtones. Great staff focused on customer service and a chef that know Japanese food and beyond, able to break new ground with unique creations.

Don’t be afraid to do the tasting menu (omakase) as Chef Marcos will surely impress.

Naoki is as much a show as it is a dinner. Open kitchens are always fun. Japanese open kitchens, whether a sushi bar or a teppanyaki grill, are even more fun.

The menu is pricey. But well worth every penny.

Santiago has several really good Japanese and Japanese fusion (Nikkei) restaurants. But none better than Naoki. And this one is definitely the highest-vibe of them all.