Sushi, Ramen, Matcha: Why India Suddenly Can’t Get Enough Of Japanese Food

Not too long ago, Japanese food in India was considered niche—something you’d find in posh restaurants with a price tag to match. Fast forward to today, and suddenly everyone is slurping ramen bowls, rolling sushi on Instagram reels, and swapping their regular chai for a bright green matcha latte. Japanese food hasn’t just arrived—it’s taken over.

Ramen is the New Comfort Food

For years, Maggi reigned as India’s ultimate noodle obsession. But ramen has entered the scene with its steaming broths, springy noodles, and toppings that look straight out of an anime. It’s hearty, comforting, and somehow exotic at the same time. Perfect for a rainy Mumbai evening or a late-night Delhi craving.

Sushi Rolls Its Way Into Our Hearts

When sushi first landed in India, people were sceptical—raw fish? Seaweed? But give it a few years, and now sushi is as common as momos. From luxury hotels to cloud kitchens, you can order everything from classic California rolls to paneer-and-masala twists. The artistry, the flavours, the Instagram factor—it all works.

Matcha: More Than Just a Drink

If you see someone holding a frothy green latte, chances are they’ve joined the matcha club. Touted as a superfood, matcha is loaded with antioxidants and has quickly become a “cool” alternative to coffee. Plus, it pops on Instagram. From lattes and smoothies to matcha cheesecakes, India is loving this Japanese green wave.

Why Now?

The obsession is partly thanks to social media, global travel, K-dramas, anime, and even OTT food shows that have made Japanese food aspirational. Add to that a rising middle class that loves experimenting with global trends, and you have the perfect recipe for a sushi-and-ramen takeover.

From Niche to Everyday

The best part? Japanese food is no longer restricted to fine dining. Today you’ll find ramen cafes in Bengaluru, sushi counters in malls, and matcha desserts in every hipster café. Chefs are also Indianising it—imagine butter chicken sushi or masala ramen. Authentic or not, it’s delicious.

A Trend That’s Here to Stay

This isn’t just a passing phase. With India’s love for experimenting, the Japanese food wave is only going to get bigger. Whether you’re a foodie, a wellness junkie, or just curious about global flavours, Japan’s culinary gems are here to stay in India.