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Business Details
50 Years
experience
Authentic Japanese Dining in Charlotte, NC
Nakato Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar Japanese Restaurant has been serving the Southeast for over 50 years, establishing itself as a pioneer in Japanese cuisine. We introduced the region's first Hibachi dining experience with expert chefs preparing meals tableside using traditional Teppan Yaki techniques. Our commitment to quality extends to our fresh seafood offerings at the Sushi Bar, which have become a cornerstone of our reputation. Since opening in Charlotte in 1976, we've maintained a legacy of excellence through three locations, including our flagship Pineville-Matthews Road establishment since 1990. Our team combines culinary expertise with hospitable service to create memorable dining experiences.

We emphasize transparency in ingredient sourcing and preparation methods while maintaining rigorous food safety standards. With decades of collective experience, our chefs bring authentic Japanese culinary traditions to every dish. Our dedication to customer satisfaction is reflected in our consistent service quality and community engagement. We continuously refine our offerings to balance tradition with modern preferences while maintaining our core values of excellence and hospitality.
Services
Hibachi Dining Sushi Bar Lunch Menu Dinner Menu Takeout Service
Details
  • Year established: 1976
Highlights and features
  • Over 50 years of Japanese culinary expertise
  • Pioneers of Teppan Yaki dining in the Southeast
  • Fresh seafood selections at our dedicated Sushi Bar
  • Three generations of family-owned operation
  • Consistent quality since 1976 across multiple locations
Services
Hibachi Dining
Experience traditional Japanese tableside cooking with expert Hibachi chefs preparing meals using Teppan Yaki techniques. Our skilled chefs create interactive dining experiences while serving premium proteins and fresh vegetables. This culinary art form combines entertainment with gourmet cuisine for special occasions and everyday dining.
Sushi Bar
Our Sushi Bar offers an extensive selection of fresh seafood and traditional Japanese preparations. From classic nigiri to specialty rolls, our experienced sushi chefs emphasize quality and presentation. We maintain strict temperature controls and sourcing standards to ensure optimal freshness and food safety for all raw preparations.
Lunch Menu
Our lunch menu features curated Japanese dishes available until 2:30 PM daily. The menu includes Hibachi preparations, sushi options, and combination plates with traditional accompaniments. Designed for quick yet satisfying meals while maintaining the quality standards of our dinner service.
Dinner Menu
The dinner menu showcases our full range of Japanese cuisine with extended service hours. Featuring premium cuts like Filet Mignon and fresh seafood, each meal includes traditional sides and house specialties. Available Tuesday through Sunday with later closing times to accommodate evening dining preferences.
Takeout Service
Our takeout service provides lunch options for carryout between 11:30 AM and 2:30 PM. The menu includes carefully packaged meals that maintain quality during transport. We use eco-friendly containers that preserve temperature integrity for optimal enjoyment at home or the office.
Questions
What are Nakato Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar's operating hours?
We're open Tuesday-Friday 11:30 AM-9 PM, Saturday 4 PM-9:30 PM, and Sunday 2 PM-9 PM. Closed Mondays.
Do you offer takeout options?
Yes, we provide lunch takeout service Monday-Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
What makes your Hibachi dining special?
Our expert chefs prepare meals tableside using traditional Teppan Yaki techniques with interactive entertainment and premium ingredients.
How long have you served Charlotte?
We've been serving Charlotte since 1976, with our current location operating since 1990.
Where are your locations?
We have two Charlotte locations: our original Pineville-Matthews Road site and University area establishment since 2004.
Reviews (4)
Sean Virkler
Jan 26, 2022 Report
Great traditional Japanese steakhouse! Our family loves the hibachi meal and show. We've been going for years and whenever we have visitors from out of town this is our go to for a great experience.
J. J.
Jan 19, 2022 Report
Best sushi in Charlotte! Hibachi dining is great for entertaining kids. With all of the places that come and go in Charlotte, sometimes it is best stick with the tried and true BEST!
Yush H.
Jan 03, 2022 Report
Nakato is the OG and best Japanese hibachi in charlotte. Their suchi is top notch and you get huge portions with the hibachi meals. The hibachi chefs are great and entertaining too.
Iara S.
Jan 02, 2022 Report
Terrible service, they say you have to make a reservation to come, you call, make the reservation and when you arrive, that there is no reservation and you waste your time, you need to review your employees