50 Best Japanese Restaurants near Castro Valley

“We have gone here once or twice each year since they opened and while the quality of the omakase is still high, the overall experience and service has reached a baseline 4 stars. Not sure if this is because the owners are prioritizing other restaurants in the Peninsula or this is just what happens over time.

The last time we went felt like an off day. The previous seating was running over, so many parties weren't seated until 15-30 minutes later. Didn't receive any sort of acknowlement or apology about that. It also seemed like it was only one server managing both the counter seating and tables, but she was doing her best.

Overall still the nicest omakase in this area and would recommend for a special occasion.“

“The food is awesome, the service is nice. The fish is very fresh and the rice blends in perfectly, very high quality. One thing they need to improve on is to be more careful with allergies. They need to ask to put rolls from the same order in the same container, especially those containing mayo. This is mainly because people are allergic to egg and mayo has egg so the mayo from one roll can easily contaminate another roll if put in the same box. Otherwise the food is awesome. From: Zee age 11“

“Great service. The Staff is always friendly and polite. Best sushi in Town.“

“One of our go-to places with super friendly staff which always goes the extra mile to make us feel welcomed, seen and appreciated.

The Food - especially their Dinner Special - is great, portion sizes just right, different options and still assembled and delivered to the table within minutes of ordering. And both Nigiri and Sashimi have sizable chunks of Fish and well prepared!

Kid-friendliness: Servers interact wonderfully with the kids, recommending suitable food and engaging with them in conversations. There are often families with Kids here, a testament to their appeal.“

“Pretty good selection of bowls, onigiri, rolls, and sashimi platters to go. There's always a handful of rolls on sale for the day slightly cheaper. Drink selection is pretty good, snack selection isn't great but it's not a snack store and there's other places for that. If there's one change they could make, please stay open till 7.“

“Stopped by Sushi Ken and was welcomed with complimentary edamame, a nice touch to start things off. Ordered the Spicy Lover sushi and it was great, exactly the right level of heat and I enjoyed it so much I ordered a second set to take home.

That's where the consistency issue comes in. The to-go order didn't have nearly as much heat as the one I had at the restaurant, which was disappointing. When something is that good you want it to be the same every time. I'd urge the restaurant to stay consistent across dine-in and to-go orders because the gap was noticeable.

Service was quick and my server was friendly throughout. The dine-in experience was solid overall and I'll definitely be back. Just hope they sort out the consistency issue because the Spicy Lover when done right is absolutely worth ordering again and again.“

“We did takeout for a large group and the order was all correct and on time for pickup. The staff was so friendly and even gave us a small treat! Everyone loved their sushi and my shioyaki was delicious and HUGE. Great experience all around and will be a regular!“

“We really enjoyed our first meal at Hanami. we were greeted by a friendly server and she brought us menus and chopsticks. We ordered seafood ramen, katsu ramen and a veggie roll.

my fiance enjoyed his first time having abalone! We really liked how they prepared the squid as well. My katsu was lightly fried and perfectly crunchy. The veggie roll was fresh and delicious.

The ambiance was our favorite part! So many pretty things to look at! And we really enjoyed the music as well.

thank you for the yummy meal!“

“Came for a late lunch. Greeted and sat down right away. Service was very good. Food was very good. Love this little spot, i will be back. Our table ordered, agedashi tofu, spicy miso ramen, tongkatsu ramen and hamachi Don. Everything was very tasty and fresh. Only small thing is the wasabi paste could have been stronger.“

“We had such a great meal here. Pa’ Papas serves some of the most authentic Japanese food we’ve had in a while. We ordered the tempura, miso soup, and a few rolls, and honestly everything was amazing. The tempura was light and crispy, the miso soup hit the spot, and the rolls were super fresh.

The portions are generous too, so you really get your money’s worth. If you want Japanese food that actually tastes authentic, this is the place. We’ll definitely be back“

“Kotobuki is our go to sushi spot. We eat there regularly, eat in and take away. The sushi is always fresh and very good -- sashimi & rolls. My kids like the generous combo boxes. They have a great variety of rolls, Ramen, and plated meals. The staff is friendly and service is excellent! A plus, we can watch a sporting event there. ;)“

“Kaisen don offers customers an exceptional variety of authentic Japanese food, a serene setting, and outstanding service from Maney: our favorite server/hospitality goddess extraordinaire. She's consistently attentive, responsive, professional, dedicated, and accommodating regardless of how busy she may be. While we usually dine on Sunday nights, we went on a very busy Saturday evening and although she was absolutely swamped, we still received stellar service as always. Maney makes Kaisen don our #1 favorite Japanese restaurant and we've become loyal regulars. Eveything we've tried on the menu is delicious and authentic. Don't miss it!“

“The fish was very fresh and absolutely delicious. I will definitely be coming back.

The only suggestion I have is regarding the tableware. I think using ceramic dishes for the soy sauce, plates, and tea cups would enhance the overall dining experience.

The quality of the food is excellent, but using plastic tableware makes it feel less consistent with the price point and takes away from the overall experience. Of course, this is just my personal opinion.“

“BEST TERIYAKI CHICKEN!! Great food! Great service!“

“If there was ever a Union City spot that deserved more attention it’d be this one. I’ve tried many things on the menu on various visits and have been satisfied every time; pretty much everything on the menu is solid, and the portions are great. The workers are very good about checking in on tables and can give recs for first timers.“

“It was a great experience to eat at Tgi Oni,y friend and I searched it up on yelp and just want to try it out, but it really more than we expected! Sashimi combo was very big portion, and rolls too. All the employees there are very welcoming. Only thing I want to say if I’m being pickup, will be the cups I like it traditional Japanese cup instead of plastic cups, and nice Japanese chopsticks instead of to go chopsticks. Other than that, everything was good.“

“The service was very good, but the restaurant is a little bit understaffed. The restaurant was very clean. Restaurant was mostly quiet.

I recommend the katsu curry, it was very savory and comforting! The sushi was good (forgot to take a picture of the sushi). Also had tempera and fried squid.
The price was reasonable.

Would come back here again for sure! 🥰“

“It's small, so the wait for a dine in table can take a bit, but the food quality is worth the wait. Our family has loved everything we have tried. this is one of a handful of local restaurants my 10 year old some will never complain about!“

“Best and most underrated ramen in the Bay! The broth is so flavorful, the texture of the noodles is perfect, and the pork belly is so crispy. Good portions for the price and the owners/service are great. My personal fav is the TanTan! Can be a little salty so request less salt :)“

“We got there in time for Happy Hour. The service was outstanding. Our server named Lumbi was attentive, super nice and took care of my family (plus our dog) so well. She brought out our food quickly, drinks refills quickly and our food came out flawlessly.

The prices compared to Irvine (where we are from) is very affordable!! The fish was fresh and the avocado roll was to die for. Not traditional sushi, it’s quite westernized so if that’s your style you’ll be happy. Solid locals spot!“

“Had the Chicken Teriyaki Dinner. The Service was fast and Inviting. Started with the Miso Soup that was really good. The Chicken Teriyaki Came with White Rice and a Salad. The Portions were A Decent Size and Boy was it good. All of It..Every Single Bit..I asked for extra salad dressing and I got it.Very good Miso Dressing...The Service remained great throughout my meal. What a great hidden Spot in the Pelton Center. Can't wait to return. Can't wait to Try something new. Finished off the Night with a Great Iced Coffee Next Door...“

“If you're craving for Japanese in San Leandro or anywhere in the East Bay, this is the spot. Open late night is a fantastic bonus! The quality of food for a place open past 10pm was a great surprise.
The huge menu has something for everyone. Sashimi, specialty sushi rolls, nigiri, ramen, tempura, bento combos, and yakatori! And plenty of beer and sake to wash it all down.“

“We had a great experience the food is fresh and the steak is tender the salmon was just right. Your recommendation is forwarded to Facebook“

“I have been coming here for almost 14 years. And I would not change this japanese restaurant for another. Ambiance, food price, friendliness the taste of the food is wonderful. Like my mom always says : bueno, bonito y barata. Good, wonderful, comfortable prices. You won’t be disappointed!!“

“Another last minute dinner at one of the local restaurant in San Ramon. Senri Sushi has that cozy, neighborhood spot vibe that makes you feel like a regular even on your first visit. It’s not flashy, but that’s part of the charm, simple, welcoming, and focused on good food.

We ordered the crispy assorted tempura, which came out light, golden, and not greasy at all. Each piece had a nice crunch without overpowering the ingredients. The highlight, though, was the large sushi boat loaded with a variety of fresh fish. Everything looked beautifully presented and tasted just as good, clean flavors, soft texture, and high-quality cuts.

The soft shell crab was another standout—crispy on the outside, tender inside, and full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish you keep reaching for until it’s gone.

We also tried the crispy salmon. The flavor was there, but it could’ve used a bit more crispiness, as the texture leaned slightly chewy instead of having that satisfying crunch you’d expect.

Overall, Senro Sushi delivers a satisfying experience with fresh seafood, generous portions, and a relaxed, homey atmosphere. A solid go-to spot if you’re in the area and craving dependable, well-made sushi.“

“Angry Fish has become our go to sushi spot. The value to food ratio is immense and the fish quality is a step above most other sushi places at a similar price point. Also their happy hour and rolls are quite a bit more creative than your standard fare. Highly recommend. Staff is also great“

“I have been going here for years. They have some of the best rolls in town. I always get the dragon roll, E14th roll, and the crunchy roll. So very yummy 😋“

“My friend and I got the Mentaiko soupless ramen, shishito peppers, takowasa, squid legs tempura and the hokkaido crepe. Everything was delicious. Ramen was rich and creamy with a hint of spiciness. Our appetizers were all delicious, flavorful and the squid legs were so crispy. I love the texture from the takowasa, crunchy and had a chew to it. Our servers were very sweet and helpful. I will definitely come back here if I visit again.“

“Price is good and food is good.“

“Simply the best in Fremont“

“Stopped by on a work trip. Ordered two sushi roles, a bowl of miso soup, and a large Sapporo beer. The food was excellent, service was very friendly, and I walked away happy. If you enjoy sushi in a relaxed atmosphere, this is the place to go.“

“Definitely going to go back here again sushi’s are fresh and taste so good! My wife and my daughter enjoyed it the last time we went there for lunch. They have variety of sushi on their menu and the staff are really friendly. ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ -donpinoytv“

“Delicious food for a great price

Vegetarian options: Seaweed salad, rolls can be made as vegetarian, and soup is vegan

Parking: Lots of parking, always.

Wheelchair accessibility: Yes there are wheelchair ramps and parking for those with disability“

“Great atmosphere, great food, great service. Highly recommend Yokohama Sushi! 👍“

“I had a great time over there. Delicious food 🥘“

“It was the best sushi! We will be back!“

“first time here. loved it most definitely coming back. 🥰“

“First time and it was very good light on the stomach n refreshing. I will be back and recommend it . Yum I'll be back“

“The food was great and the staff was really nice“

“Went on a date and got some absolutely delicious sushi 🍣 the prices are much better than almost all the sushi restaurants in the area while still maintaining quality. It does depend on what you get, but if you find the good rolls then this will become your favorite spot in downtown Hayward for sushi!!“

“Friendly staff, pleasant ambiance, fresh seafood“

“We were walking past this quaint place when a gentleman just walked out with a boba drink. He insisted that we go check out the place and that it’s very good. And so we went in to get something. It is a very clean and cute little place. I got a smoothie drink, it was so good. The owner of this place she’s so kind and very sweet.“

“Really tasty and affordable food! I've ordered the lunch and dinner bento special a few times. Their website and hours are a little confusing though. I wanted to order food on a Monday afternoon and all the delivery apps say they're closed.“

“Wonderful assortment of yum yo choice from! Clean place and Courteous Assistance 🤙🏼“

“the.staff.is friendly. Food is fresh and tasty!!“

“Apparently I've been driving right by this place for a while, but it happened to catch my eye today. I stopped in and ended up getting the sashimi donburi. It was excellent! The fish was fresh and very good quality, the rice was well seasoned as well. Though slightly more expensive than some other to-go sushi options, the quality of ingredients made the donburi well worth it for the price paid and is overall a very good value.“

“Very clean, excellent menu with very creative rolls. The nigiri 🍣 sushi is fresh and the best I’ve had to date. Personable, knowledgeable and friendly staff. Japanese beers are on point, cold and priced right. This a “locals favorite” which feels very welcoming and the freshness will be bringing me back. Cheers!“

“We come here about once a month. We enjoy mostly the combination dinners with entree (we get Salmon Teriyaki or mackerel), mixed tempura, California rolls, salad, and miso soup. I tried the deluxe combo with entree, sashimi, mixed tempura, and nigiri sushi selection. Everything was very good. Quite a lot of food as a good value for Japanese food.“

“I had the chicken beef and ribs bento box. The ribs were so good I went back and ordered another set of ribs for later. The customer service was awesome I had never been there before and they were quick to point out their favorite recommendations so thumbs up. Sorry I didn't take any pictures cuz I ate it too fast.“

“This place doesn't look like much from the outside but, the food is great. The portions are plentiful and the price unlike most Japanese restaurants are very reasonable. I have been coming here for years and the quality has remained consistent. I love this place!“