Musubi Japanese Restaurant

Musubi Japanese Restaurant brings authentic Japanese cuisine to the heart of Lusaka, Zambia. Nestled inside the Old Brentwood Complex in the Sunningdale area, our restaurant is more than a place to eat—it is a destination where Zambian hospitality meets the refined traditions of Japan. The name “Musubi” means connection or knots, reflecting our mission to tie together the rich culinary heritage of Japan with the vibrant food culture of Zambia. Founded by chef and owner Yudai Watanabe, who first visited Zambia as a tourist in 2016 and fell in love with the country, Musubi is recognized as the only Japanese restaurant in Zambia dedicated exclusively to this cuisine.

From the moment you step through the black gate of House #25, you are welcomed into a warm, intimate space designed for everything from casual lunches to romantic dinners and business gatherings. Our team takes pride in presenting iconic Japanese dishes crafted with care, using ingredients sourced with precision—including seafood shipped by air directly from Japan. Whether you are a longtime fan of Japanese food or trying it for the first time, we invite you to explore a menu that balances time-honored techniques with fresh, high-quality components.

Services & Facilities

Musubi offers a versatile dining experience tailored to meet a variety of needs. We provide dine-in service in a thoughtfully designed interior, takeout for those on the move, and delivery options through our partners. The restaurant also accommodates private events and celebrations, making it a sought-after venue for birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate functions.

What We Offer

• Lunch & Dinner Service: Enjoy a serene midday meal or a leisurely evening dinner from Tuesday through Sunday, with our kitchen closing briefly between lunch and dinner to prepare.
• Takeout & Delivery: Order your favorite dishes to savor at home or the office via our takeout counter or affiliated delivery platforms, all maintaining the quality you expect.
• Private Events & Reservations: Reserve our space for exclusive gatherings. Our dedicated team helps plan menus and arrangements to create memorable occasions.
• Gift Cards: Share the experience with a Musubi gift card, available for purchase using cash or Airtel Money—a perfect present for loved ones.
• Special Events & Sushi Night: Join us for our acclaimed sushi night, featuring premium sushi rolls and sashimi crafted with air-flown seafood, offering a deeper dive into Japanese culinary artistry.

Our Menu Highlights

The Musubi menu is a journey through Japan’s most beloved dishes. We have curated a selection that honors both tradition and local tastes, ensuring there is something for every palate. Our chefs prepare each dish to order, emphasizing freshness and presentation.

• Ramen (Noodle Soup): A rich, slow-simmered broth built on chicken and pork, paired with springy noodles, chashu-style meat, and traditional toppings.
• Sushi Rolls & Nigiri: Handcrafted sushi using seasoned rice and a variety of fillings, from fresh salmon and tuna to vegetables, with air-shipped seafood for the ultimate quality.
• Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken): Marinated, bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a light, crispy shell—one of Japan’s most popular comfort foods.
• Tonkatsu: A tender, breaded pork cutlet fried to golden perfection and served with tangy tonkatsu sauce and shredded cabbage.
• Gyutan (Grilled Beef Tongue): A delicacy thinly sliced and grilled over high heat, offering a unique umami flavor and delicate texture.
• Teriyaki Chicken: Juicy chicken thighs glazed in a house-made teriyaki sauce, balancing sweet and savory notes.
• Musubi Platter: Our signature combination plate presenting multiple specialties, ideal for those who want to sample a little of everything.
• Agedashi Tofu & Sides: Lightly fried tofu in a warming broth, plus sides like sesame ice cream that guests frequently praise.

Why Customers Choose Us

Guests consistently highlight the restaurant’s calm, romantic atmosphere and the dedication to authentic Japanese flavors. With a 4.8-star rating from over 100 reviews, Musubi has quickly become a beloved fixture in Lusaka’s dining scene. Our attention to detail sets us apart—from the understated Japanese-inspired décor to the careful sourcing of ingredients.

We are the only Japanese restaurant in Zambia, yet we never rest on that unique position. Instead, we focus on delivering warm service, precise cooking, and a genuine connection between cultures. Reviews often mention the standout tonkatsu and the black sesame ice cream, while others appreciate the responsiveness of the owner and staff to feedback. Whether you are navigating by the detailed directions we provide or simply looking for a restaurant that feels like a hidden gem, Musubi rewards the journey.

Serving Lusaka & Surrounding Areas

Conveniently situated off the road near prominent landmarks such as the JICA office, Paratus, and the Swedish Embassy in Sunningdale, Musubi is easily accessible from both Longacres and Kabulonga. The restaurant sits within the secure Old Brentwood Private Properties, offering a tranquil escape from the city’s bustle. This central location makes us an easy choice for professionals working in nearby offices, families in the surrounding neighborhoods, and visitors exploring Lusaka.

Our role extends beyond the restaurant walls. Musubi actively participates in community events like the Lusaka Food Market, where we introduce new audiences to ramen and karaage, reinforcing our commitment to sharing Japanese culture across Zambia.

Hours, Location & Directions

We are open six days a week, closing only on Mondays. Lunch runs from 12:00 to 15:00 (last call at 14:00), and dinner from 18:00 to 22:00 (last call at 21:00). Note that the contact page may list earlier hours; we recommend confirming via our website or a quick phone call before visiting.

Our full address: Stand No. 6983, House #25, Longacres Inside Old Brentwood Complex, Old Brentwood Road, Lusaka, Zambia. For those navigating by landmarks:

• From ZAF/Kalingalinga: Enter Brentwood Road where the Swedish Embassy sits. Look for signs reading ‘Niyatu’ and ‘EQUITAS’ and a large blue ‘Old Brentwood Private Properties’ sign. Enter the courtyard; we are the fourth house on the left at the black gate.
• From Los Angeles Blvd: Enter Brentwood Road beside Chrismar Hotel. Spot the ‘JICA’ sign, then find ‘EQUITAS’ and ‘Niyatu’ signs and the same large blue sign. Enter the courtyard; we are the fourth house on the left.

Questions Visitors Ask

Do I need a reservation? While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. You can book easily through our website or by calling +260 97 8876467.

Is Musubi suitable for vegetarians? Yes, our menu includes vegetable sushi rolls, agedashi tofu, and other plant-based dishes. Please inform our staff of any dietary preferences so we can guide you.

Can I host a private party at the restaurant? Absolutely. Musubi is an ideal venue for intimate events. Contact us via the events page on our website to discuss catering, décor, and seating arrangements for your special occasion.

Is the seafood really flown from Japan? Yes, to maintain authenticity, we air-ship certain seafood items directly from Japan. This ensures our sushi and sashimi meet the standards connoisseurs expect.

Is there parking available? Yes, ample and secure parking is available within the Old Brentwood Complex courtyard, making your visit hassle-free.

Do you offer gift cards? Yes, Musubi gift cards are a popular choice. They can be purchased on-site using cash or Airtel Money and make excellent presents for any celebration.