Japanese restaurant music: 6 playlists to match your dining style
Whether your guests are tucking into donburi or takoyaki, their experience will be even better if they hear the right music.
There’s a Japanese dining spot to suit every mood — from a quiet ramen bar to a lively izakaya, a refined kaiseki to a classic sushi spot, and even a smoky BBQ joint. Here are six playlists, curated by Soundtrack’s music team, made to complement every style of Japanese restaurant.
Sushi Dance Pop
Featuring: Modern dance-pop hits
From tracks by Dua Lipa and Ava Max to electronic hits from Avicii, Calvin Harris and Tiësto, this high-energy playlist is perfect for upbeat, modern sushi bars.
Japanese Restaurant
Featuring: Traditional gagaku
Designed for more traditional environments, this playlist explores the elegance of ancient Japanese Imperial Court music with selections that are both sophisticated and playful.
Lunch Rush Pop
Featuring: Current pop hits and feel-good classics
Catchy tunes from artists like Charli XCX, OneRepublic and Harry Styles bring energy to a fast-paced lunch service.
Dinner and Drinks
Featuring: Retro and modern indie-pop, soul, disco and R&B
A warm mix of indie-pop, soul, disco and R&B that sets the tone for Friday night izakayas, sake bars or stylish fusion spots.
Tokyo Kitchen
Featuring: J-pop hits
An eclectic blend of Japanese pop, a genre fusing pop hooks, electronic beats and rock influences. It’s accessible, radio friendly and ideal for a casual and contemporary Japanese kitchen.
Jazzy Dinner
Featuring: Classic and instrumental jazz
Smooth piano and lush vocals from Ella Fitzgerald, Etta James, Bing Crosby and more. This playlist is perfect for a refined, slow-paced dining experience.
Create the right mood with expertly curated Japanese restaurant music.
Try Soundtrack free for 14 days and see how the right music can change your space.
