Discover Onaka Restaurant in Nice's Charming Japanese Culinary Scene.

Nestled in the heart of Nice at 12 Pass. Masséna, Onaka Restaurant offers a genuine taste of Japan brought to the French Riviera. Led by Chef Alexis Luong, the 2021 French sushi champion, this cozy spot evokes the intimate vibe of Tokyo's izakayas, inviting food lovers and curious travelers alike to indulge in an extraordinary dining experience.

Exquisite menu highlights and unique dishes

Onaka dazzles with a diverse menu featuring classics like gyozas, crispy tempuras, teriyaki chicken, and a wide array of sushi — including nigiri, sashimi, rolls, and maki. The popular omakase menu, priced at €70, lets you embark on a chef-curated tasting journey, perfectly tailored to your preferences with options to end on a sweet or savory note. For a midday treat, their bento lunch at €16.9 offers a delicious variety of tempura, nigiri, maki, and sashimi—ideal for those seeking authentic Japanese flavors without the fuss.

Vegetarian diners will find thoughtfully prepared options like vegetable tempuras and fresh salads, ensuring everyone can savor the rich culinary traditions of Japan. Don't miss the standout dishes such as smoked salmon and salmon sashimi with a delightful sweet and tangy sauce or the much-recommended tempura and dragon roll. Their seasonal desserts and signature cocktails, like the Japanese Mule, add the perfect finishing touch to your meal.

Cozy atmosphere and attentive service

Step inside Onaka and you'll be embraced by a warm, intimate ambiance reminiscent of Tokyo's izakayas. The fresh ingredients are prepared before your eyes, adding to the authentic experience. While many guests praise the delicious food and cozy environment, some have noted occasional service challenges, particularly during busy seating times. Reservations are highly recommended to secure your place and enhance your dining pleasure.

Essential tips for visiting Onaka

Operating hours: Open Tuesday to Saturday, lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and dinner from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, closed Sundays and Mondays.
Dress code: Smart-casual attire is recommended to match the restaurant’s elegant yet relaxed setting.
Parking: Limited parking nearby; public transport or local paid parking are recommended.
Payment methods: Major credit cards, including Visa and Mastercard, are accepted for your convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Onaka Restaurant

What are the operating hours of Onaka Restaurant? Onaka operates Tuesday to Saturday, with lunch from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and dinner from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Is there a dress code at Onaka Restaurant? There’s no strict dress code, but smart-casual attire is recommended.
Does Onaka Restaurant offer vegetarian options? Yes, including vegetable tempuras and fresh salads.
Is parking available near Onaka Restaurant? Parking is limited; public transportation or nearby paid parking lots are recommended.
Does Onaka Restaurant accept credit cards? Yes, major credit cards including Visa and Mastercard are accepted.

Community Sentiment Summary

Onaka Restaurant enjoys a largely positive reputation among locals and visitors in Nice. Diners consistently praise the authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and cozy atmosphere that transport you straight to Japan. Chef Alexis Luong’s expertise shines through every dish, especially the sushi and omakase menus. While occasional service hiccups have been reported, they are outweighed by the overall outstanding culinary experience. For those craving top-tier Japanese cuisine on the French Riviera, Onaka remains a highly recommended destination.

The History of Onaka Restaurant in Nice, France.

Onaka Restaurant in Nice: Authentic Japanese Dining Experience with Some Considerations

Nestled at 12 Passage Masséna in the heart of Nice, Onaka Restaurant offers an authentic Japanese culinary journey that has captured the hearts of both locals and travelers alike. Known for its highly skilled chef and fresh ingredients, Onaka excels at bringing traditional Japanese flavors to the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking genuine sushi, tempura, and inventive seasonal desserts. The cozy ambiance enhances the dining experience, providing a warm setting that invites guests to savor every bite while enjoying attentive service.

Highlights of the dining experience

Onaka is celebrated for its omakase menus which creatively tailor dishes to your preference for sweet or savoury finishes. Guests praise the exceptional quality of sushi rice, the delightful taste of signature rolls like the dragon roll, and the rich flavors of miso soup—one of the best in the region. The seasonal desserts and Japanese-inspired cocktails, such as the Japanese Mule, add a unique touch to the meal. Diners appreciate that the dishes are freshly prepared right in front of them, enhancing the authenticity and engagement of the experience.

Things to keep in mind before visiting

While Onaka impresses with its authentic cuisine and cozy atmosphere, potential visitors should be aware of a few considerations. The restaurant has limited seating, requiring reservations to secure a spot, especially during peak hours. Some guests have noted issues with menu item availability, including signature dishes and selected wines occasionally being out of stock, which can affect the dining experience. Additionally, the pricing is on the higher end, reflecting the quality but potentially limiting accessibility for budget-conscious diners.

Pros: Authentic Japanese cuisine with a highly skilled chef providing fresh, carefully prepared dishes.
Cozy ambiance and attentive service that make diners feel welcomed and comfortable.
Unique offerings such as tailored omakase menus, seasonal desserts, and Japanese-inspired cocktails.
Cons: Limited seating capacity and the necessity to book ahead to avoid disappointment.
Occasional unavailability of popular menu items and some wines, which can affect dining plans.
Higher price point that reflects the quality but may not suit all budgets.

Overall, Onaka Restaurant stands out as a top destination for those craving authentic Japanese flavors with a refined touch in Nice. Its fresh ingredients, skilled preparation, and comfortable atmosphere make it a rewarding choice for sushi lovers and adventurous diners. However, prospective guests should plan ahead and be prepared for occasional menu limitations and premium pricing to fully enjoy what this culinary gem has to offer.

4.7

12 Pass. Masséna, 06000 Nice, France

09 52 97 26 83

Closed

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

Closed

Thursday

Closed