50 Best Japanese Restaurants in San Diego

“Yakitori Taisho exceeds expectations with its exceptional service, atmosphere, and food. Must-try dishes include the beef, pork belly, black miso cod, and Brussels sprouts, which are "to DIE FOR". This spot offers a great selection of sakes and fresh oysters, with tasty yakitori options, although with limited seafood choices. Reservations are recommended for a satisfying dining experience.“

“Hidden Fish is a hidden gem in San Diego's food scene. This reservation-only restaurant accommodates only 13 customers per seating, offering an authentic and expertly prepared Omakase experience. The three expert sushi chefs work diligently to serve their guests, with fish flown in daily from Japan, New Zealand, Spain, and Canada. The 90-minute seating provides ample time to savor the chef's creations, and guests can opt for a sake pairing to complement the meal. While the price point for the sake pairing may be high, the Sapporo draft pairs excellently with the sushi. Reservations are a must, as this cozy and elegant establishment fills up quickly. For those still hungry after the Omakase, à la carte items ranging from $8 to $10 per piece are available. Expect to spend around $200 per person, making it an ideal date night destination.“

“Artifact at Mingei offers a delightful dining experience with super friendly service and tasty, artfully presented food. Both carnivores and vegetarians can enjoy a variety of great options. The setting is beautiful, making it an excellent choice for a fixed-price dinner or special occasion like Mother's Day lunch.“

“Soichi Sushi offers a remarkable dining experience with its exceptional service, beautiful presentation, and delectable flavors. The intimate and cozy atmosphere, combined with the option to enjoy an intimate experience at the bar, creates a truly special ambiance. The restaurant's omakase menu and à la carte nigiri pieces are highly praised, with diners describing the food as the best sushi they have had in the area. The thoughtful attention to detail, such as the sake tasting flight, further enhances the overall experience. Soichi Sushi is a must-try for anyone seeking an exceptional and memorable sushi dining experience.“

“Sushi Tadokoro, a Michelin-starred restaurant, offers an exceptional dining experience. The chef, with over a decade of experience, provides a personalized and educational experience, sharing the history and origin of the fish. The traditional Japanese sushi is fresh, beautifully presented, and bursting with flavor. The friendly and professional staff ensure a warm welcome. While the surrounding area may be uninviting, the intimate and clean interior, along with the outstanding cuisine, make it a must-visit destination.“

“Lumi is a restaurant located in a popular tourist area, offering a range of dishes, including decent quality sushi. The establishment has a tiered pricing system, with a "locals" happy hour offering discounted prices but smaller portions. The rooftop dining experience is praised, though the entree portions are considered small and overpriced for the Peruvian fusion cuisine. Overall, Lumi provides a nice ambiance and service, but may not offer the best value for money.“

“Kinme Omakase is a culinary destination that offers an exceptional dining experience. This intimate restaurant serves phenomenal food made with fresh and high-quality ingredients, expertly prepared by master chefs. The omakase menu is a masterpiece, showcasing the finest ingredients sourced locally and from Japan. Each dish is a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and aromas, presented beautifully like a work of art. The service is exemplary, with attentive staff who anticipate every need, ensuring a seamless dining experience. The elegant yet inviting ambiance sets the stage for an unforgettable evening of gastronomic indulgence. With impeccable service, exceptional food, and attention to detail, Kinme Omakase is one of the best omakase experiences in SoCal, leaving customers feeling full, satisfied, and eager to return.“

“Tabu Shabu North Park offers an exceptional dining experience, with excellent service and delectable food. The staff delivers outstanding hospitality, warmly welcoming guests even close to closing time. The flavors are on point, making it a 10-star experience. The restaurant is praised for its accommodating nature, catering to the needs of all diners, including those with special requirements. Tabu Shabu is a true gem, providing a memorable dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more.“

“Ken Sushi Workshop is a highly acclaimed restaurant, with many reviewers praising its unique offerings, commitment to quality, and variety of dining experiences. The restaurant is known for dishes like the Love Omakase, smoked tuna cheek, and wagyu beef, as well as its innovative use of outdoor pods and charming ambiance. Customers have consistently highlighted the exceptional food, service, and overall atmosphere.“

“Mitsuwa Marketplace is a Japanese-inspired supermarket with a restaurant, Musashiya, serving a popular pork katsu plate with rice and curry sauce. The pork is crispy and flavorful, and the curry sauce is rich and tasty. The restaurant offers a range of authentic Japanese dishes, including sushi. The staff is polite and friendly, and the bathroom is clean. However, the parking lot is small and often crowded. Despite this, shoppers can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, which offers a variety of Japanese and Asian products and food, with helpful staff and a welcoming atmosphere.“

“Hatsuzakura is a charming and authentic Japanese restaurant with a peaceful ambiance and well-designed decor, featuring pink flowers and matching pink glasses. The food is highly praised, with popular dishes like Doria, Onigiri, and the Egg omelette dish, although the latter had a bit too much tomato sauce. Portions are generous and worth the price. The house chicken broth soup and salad with sesame dressing are highly recommended. Drinks such as jasmine tea and hochija latte are served in cute pots and are delicious. The full set menu offers a variety of items, including salmon and plum onigiri, karaage, tamago sandwich, and mochi for dessert. The restaurant's staff is friendly and attentive, making for a pleasant dining experience.“

“Marugame Udon is a popular restaurant known for its fresh, handmade udon noodles and flavorful broths. The noodles are of excellent quality and texture, though the broth portion can sometimes be insufficient. Customers can customize their orders and enjoy the engaging open kitchen experience. The fried sides, like tempura, are delicious, and the Curry Nikutama Udon is a standout dish. Despite the potential for crowding, the overall experience is highly enjoyable.“

“Kokoro Restaurant is a highly-recommended spot for authentic Japanese sushi. The menu features a range of options, including the Sushi Special, Chirashi box, and Omakase. The restaurant's attention to detail is impressive, with dishes like Chawanmushi and Tororo Imo serving as highlights. With a cozy atmosphere and convenient parking, Kokoro is a great choice for a night out.“

“CoCo Ichibanya SAN DIEGO offers authentic Japanese cuisine with a range of menu options. Quick service and great prices make it a worthwhile visit. The curry and garlic naan are standout dishes. With a call button system, staff are always available to help. Worth a visit if you're in the area.“

“Hitokuchi is an elevated Japanese izakaya offering an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant boasts a calming and professional atmosphere, with attentive servers who cater to guests' needs. The menu features a wide range of seafood, including scallops, pork belly rice bowl, and more. Guests can order à la carte or opt for a chef's course menu, which is soon to be introduced. The chefs, led by Chef John, skillfully prepare each dish with precision and talent, showcasing Japanese cuisine with hints of Korean and French influences. The restaurant's focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and attention to detail has earned it accolades in Esquire. With its intimate ambiance and exceptional service, Hitokuchi is an ideal spot for a fancy date night or a memorable meal with friends.“

“Kumi Cafe, a Japanese-American restaurant located near the Mitsuwa Japanese supermarket, offers a diverse menu that caters to various cravings. The spicy chicken dish is a standout, with its tender meat and Korean-style spiciness. The salmon sashimi, while unique in its soy sauce-infused presentation, has a distinct Chinese steamed fish-like flavor that may not appeal to all. The highlight is the spicy tonkatsu ramen, which boasts a delectable broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and a generous portion of juicy cha siu. Sushi lovers will delight in the extensive selection, with the EPA roll (yellowfin tuna with vegetable and lemon zest toppings) being a particular favorite. The spicy tuna cut rolls, while addictively spicy, may overwhelm the freshness of the fish for some. Overall, Kumi Cafe is highly recommended, with friendly staff and a pleasant dining atmosphere, making it a great choice for a satisfying Japanese-American dining experience.“

“Shabu Shabu House is an extraordinary all-you-can-eat restaurant that allows diners to cook their own soup with a variety of fresh ingredients, including meat and seafood. The restaurant offers delicious and artful shabu shabu dishes at a great price, with customers raving about the flavorful broths, such as sukiyaki and shoyu, as well as the tasty dipping sauce combinations. The menu provides instructions to help diners navigate the experience, and the restaurant's pasteurized eggs can be used as a dipping sauce for the hot meat bites. While the server may seem a bit short due to serving many customers at once, they are kind and attentive, as evidenced by one diner's experience of having their lost ring returned. Overall, Shabu Shabu House is praised for its unbeatable prices, high-quality ingredients, and exceptional dining experience.“

“Tanuki is a highly recommended restaurant that offers an impressive dining experience. The service is impeccable, with attentive and knowledgeable servers like Truree and Coco. The menu boasts a wide variety of dishes, including Toro Wasa, Wagyu Tataki Ponzu, Shrimp Tempura Roll, and Udon with Shrimp Tempura, all of which are incredibly delicious. The restaurant is a smaller space, so reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. With a great selection of Sake Flights and desserts like Vanilla Eclair, Tanuki is a must-visit for a memorable night out.“

“Tora Tora Sushi is a hidden gem located in a shared plaza with Target, 85 Degree Bakery, and Bobalicious. Despite low expectations, this mom-and-pop shop offers truly delicious sushi, with the Salmon Belly Truffle Roll receiving high praise. The small space has enough seating, and the beautiful mural at the entrance sets the tone for the experience. Customers were pleasantly surprised by the complimentary sorbet ice cream and fortune cookie, adding to the overall enjoyment. While the quality may not match high-end sushi restaurants, Tora Tora Sushi provides a satisfying and fast sushi meal, making it a worthy consideration for those craving a quick sushi fix.“

“Ichifuji Sushi is a unique dining experience that offers a range of flavors and presentation. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, with seating at the sushi bar and on the patio, which is covered and heated. The menu features a variety of dishes, including seasonal options, and the chefs are known for their attention to detail and commitment to using high-quality ingredients. While some reviewers found the service to be friendly and fun, others noted that the courses felt slightly perfunctory, lacking a sense of the chefs' personality or unique perspective. Despite this, the food is consistently delicious and satisfying, making Ichifuji Sushi a great choice for those looking for a traditional sushi experience with excellent ingredients.“

“Wa Dining Okan is a restaurant that offers authentic and varied dishes, perfect for adventurous eaters. The atmosphere is welcoming and family-oriented, with friendly staff. Some recommended dishes include sliced wagyu, sweet potatoes tempura, and fried squid. The parking is convenient, located in a big parking lot next to Nijiya Market.“

“Kanpai BBQ & Shabu offers a delightful dining experience with both hotpot and Japanese-style BBQ options. For hotpot enthusiasts, the restaurant provides an all-you-can-eat (AYCE) experience with fresh ingredients, including the delicious wagyu hot pot and lamb. Each person can choose two kinds of pot bases and enjoy a variety of side dishes, fruits, drinks, and ice cream for $40 per person. The environment is clean, and the service is commendable. For BBQ lovers, Kanpai serves quality meats like chicken cartilage, gizzard, and beef tongue, although the selection of sides is limited. The BBQ section includes self-serve items like multiple ice cream flavors and various drink options. Despite occasional grill issues, the attentive service and unique offerings make it a place worth revisiting.“

“Tsuruhashi Japanese BBQ offers top-notch food quality and exceptional staff service. The restaurant serves a range of dishes, including wagyu and Kobe beef sourced from Snake River Farms. The atmosphere is cozy, with a bustling atmosphere. The food is simple and delicious, with beautifully presented meat cuts that are easy to grill. The two sauces provided add flavor to the meal. While the pricing may be a drawback for some, the overall dining experience is enjoyable.“

“Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ offers exceptional service and high-quality all-you-can-eat options, with generous portions and flavorful dishes. The attentive servers provide top-notch service, making it an ideal spot for celebrations and large groups, ensuring a pleasant dining experience.“

“RAKIRAKI Ramen & Tsukemen is a highly-recommended restaurant that offers a variety of delicious dishes. The menu features a range of options, including the crispy and flavorful Chicken Karrage, comforting Vegetarian Miso Ramen, and crispy yet tender Vegetarian Fried Gyoza. The restaurant's friendly staff and cozy ambiance create a memorable dining experience. Take-out options are also available, with food prepared quickly and packaged well. On-site dining offers a pleasant atmosphere, with friendly staff attending to customers' needs. While some dishes may take a bit longer to arrive, the staff makes up for the delay with apologetic service and complimentary drinks. Overall, RAKIRAKI Ramen & Tsukemen is a great choice for a satisfying meal, with a consistent taste and quality across different locations.“

“Robataya Oton is a unique restaurant that offers an authentic Japanese dining experience. The atmosphere is modern and minimalistic, with a corridor of woodwork and small curtained doorways leading to secluded seating areas. The service is attentive and polite, with friendly hostesses and waitresses. The food is good, with highlights including the sukiyaki with udon noodles and unique hot plate offerings. There are some mixed reviews about the appetizers, but the overall opinion is that the restaurant is a great place to try authentic Japanese cuisine.“

“Sushi Ota is a hidden gem serving premium and fresh ingredients in every dish, offering super delicious options like the basic spicy tuna roll and various specials. The staff is accommodating and welcoming to all, including those with disabilities and service animals. Limited parking is available on-site.“

“Tenkatori Miramar is a Japanese restaurant known for its chicken Karaage, which is always freshly made and has a light, crunchy coating. The bentos are filling and include options such as potato, rice, and salad. The boneless thighs and wings are popular choices. Customers can enjoy the yuzu aioli sauce on the side. The restaurant also offers fried rice, mashed potatoes, and fries. The chicken gizzards are a standout item, with a perfect texture and flavor, making them an excellent beer snack. While the seating may not be ideal for large parties, the service and food are satisfactory.“

“Shibuya Nights offers a unique ambiance with a front area resembling a forest and a back area that feels like a club in Shibuya. Located in Little Italy, the food quality is good, but prices are high. The pork belly is highly recommended, and the drinks pack a kick. Some reviewers love the atmosphere and believe it is underrated. Shibuya Nights is actually a bar within Cloak and Petal, serving drinks and appetizers from their menu. The Tokyo Drift and anime theme add to the experience, though service could be friendlier.“

“Uncle Tetsu is a must-visit for cheesecake lovers. Their signature Japanese cheesecakes are light and fluffy, melting in your mouth with each bite. With a variety of flavors to try, including the unique Oreo and Ube options, you'll want to return to try them all. Parking can be tricky, but street parking is available. The service is above and beyond, making it a delightful experience.“

“CinKuni is a restaurant that offers a unique blend of Italian and Japanese cuisine. The prices are reasonable and it's a great place to unwind after work or watch a game with friends. While some may feel that the ambiance could be improved, the food is highly praised and the service is commendable. It is a suitable location for a casual gathering, and the welcoming environment makes it a place where everyone can find something to enjoy. However, for those considering it for a special occasion, it is worth noting that attention to special requests may vary.“

“Hane Sushi is a restaurant that offers creative and tasty sushi rolls, although at a higher price point. The bartender provides exceptional service, making customers feel special. The menu features unique dishes such as the Miso Chilean sea bass salad and the wagyu roll, which is a highlight of the meal. The chefs are happy to chat with customers to understand their preferences, and the staff is super nice and attentive. The restaurant has a nice ambiance and is extremely clean, including the bathrooms. While the prices may be higher than expected, the quality of the sushi and the overall experience make it a great option for a special occasion or date night.“

“Shino Sushi + Kappo serves the best sushi in San Diego, with always-fresh fish and never-disappointing rolls. The agadashi tofu is a must-try. With perfect food quality, reasonable prices, and excellent service, this spot is a must-visit. Favorites include the salmon belly, and diners appreciate the timely service and cozy ambiance.“

“Yakitori Hino offers a sushi bar-like atmosphere, with a focus on sake options, including sake flights. The menu features a variety of yakitori options, including eel, chicken thighs, and sweet potato, all of which are praised for their excellent taste. The ordering system is through a tablet, and skewers are ordered individually, allowing for a customizable experience. While the service can be slow, the meatball skewer, egg yolk dip, and other options like beef, gizzard, and liver are flavorful and delicious.“

“Makai Sushi offers fantastic sushi with fresh ingredients and amazing flavors. Chef Matthew provides exceptional service, accommodating dietary restrictions like gluten-free and vegetarian options. Located centrally in Hillcrest, it's a perfect stop for a snack before treatment. The salmon burrito is a must-try dish that leaves customers wishing for more. With great service and delicious food, Makai Sushi stands out as a top restaurant choice, although expanding the indoor seating area could be a welcome addition for future visits.“

“Cloak and Petal in San Diego is a popular restaurant that attracts a diverse crowd. The atmosphere is described as having a lounge-like vibe, with a unique and eclectic ambiance. The service is friendly and attentive, especially at the bar, where staff are knowledgeable and can make good recommendations. The sushi rolls are a highlight of the menu, particularly the "saucy girl roll" and the "spicy garlic edamame". The cocktail menu is also praised, with the "Cali creamin on nitro" being a standout. A must-try dessert is the "Lychee tres leches". The cherry blossom trees hanging from the ceiling add to the unique and trendy ambiance of the restaurant. Overall, Cloak and Petal is a great spot for a night out, whether it's for drinks or a meal.“

“Harmony Cuisine 2B1 offers an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant serves fresh and high-quality sushi, including the unique "heaven collection" sake flight. The sushi chef, Mickey, and the staff provide warm hospitality, making guests feel like family. Reviews praise the freshness of the sushi, from appetizers to rolls, and the expertly crafted omakase. With excellent flavors and sake options, Harmony Cuisine 2B1 is a hidden gem worth repeating visits.“

“Kumo is a charming, small restaurant known for its soft milk bread and delicious sandwiches. The menu offers a variety of options, including the beef, pork, and fruit sandwich, as well as pork cutlet and egg salad sandwiches. The shrimp sandwich and 1/2 egg and fresh fruit with green tea is also a popular choice. The staff is friendly and welcoming, providing good suggestions and excellent service.“

“Temakeria San Diego offers amazing temaki with generous fillings like salmon, shimeji, and cream cheese. The combo includes appetizers and drinks. The fresh fish hand rolls like fried salmon, salmon/fish, and salmon/shrimp are a must-try. The fusion of Japanese and Brazilian cuisine, including Peruvian ceviche, creates a unique culinary experience. The service is outstanding, and the cozy space adds to the street food scene vibe. A clever and flavorful dining choice worth returning to.“

“Moment Sushi is a fantastic dining spot, offering magical food with fresh fish and brilliant taste combinations. The restaurant serves fabulous hand rolls and sushi, with friendly staff, including the lovely Kyle. With top-quality food, an enjoyable atmosphere, and super nice staff, Moment Sushi is a must-visit. Located near Sorrento Valley, it's a great choice for a business or casual lunch. Despite being on the higher side, the quality of the fresh fish and sushi is evident, making it a solid choice for sushi lovers willing to pay a premium.“

“Hakumaru is a gem in SD, serving high-quality fish that surpasses other top-notch places in the area. The sushi is fresh, delicious, and reasonably priced. The staff is friendly, with special mention to Ashley. While there were some issues with reservations, the sashimi, rolls, and desserts like macha brownie and ice cream are top-notch. Despite some service mishaps, the food quality makes it worth a visit.“

“Ju-ichi is a small, intimate restaurant serving delicious food. The sushi quality and taste are exceptional, earning a 10/10 rating. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing top-notch service. The portions are generous, with dishes like uni being served in good quantities. The sushi chef is skilled, creating some of the best sushi experienced.“

“Buta Japanese Ramen is a hidden gem outside of the popular Convoy area. This restaurant serves creamy and flavorful ramen broth, tender pork chashu, and fresh ingredients. The staff is extremely friendly and accommodating, making customers feel welcome. The menu features a variety of options, including the Spicy Red Buta and Old School ramen bowls. With fantastic service, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere, Buta Japanese Ramen is a must-visit for ramen lovers.“

“Temari-zushi is a charming Japanese restaurant that offers exceptional service and delectable sushi. Despite its small size, the cozy atmosphere and Pokémon-themed decor create a delightful dining experience. While the sushi is praised for its freshness and flavor, the rice in the fish meals could use some improvement. Overall, Temari-zushi is a highly recommended spot for sushi enthusiasts.“

“Ikiru Sushi is a popular sushi restaurant in San Diego that offers a variety of fresh and delicious sushi options. The menu features a range of items, including fried octopus, bento boxes, and spicy miso ramen, all of which are highly praised by diners. The sushi rolls are beautifully presented and well-balanced in flavor, with the Stardust and smoked salmon nigiri being particularly recommended. However, the restaurant's small size and limited seating can make for a tight and crowded dining experience. While the fish is generally fresh, some diners have reported issues with the quality of the wasabi, which can be overly spicy or lacking in flavor. Overall, Ikiru Sushi is a solid choice for sushi lovers in the area, offering a wide selection of high-quality seafood dishes.“

“Bistro Kaz is a cozy and unassuming restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. The menu features a wide selection of Japanese-Italian fusion dishes, from pastas and pizzas to dorias and cabbage-wrapped meatballs. The portions are just right, and the food is consistently delicious. The ambiance is suitable for a relaxed lunch, a date night, or an intimate dinner, with attentive and friendly service. Bistro Kaz is a hidden gem, offering affordable and memorable meals in a quiet and elegant setting.“

“Mizu is a cozy restaurant serving high-quality Japanese and Korean dishes at a great value. Portion sizes are generous, and the fish is fresh. Gluten-free soy sauce is available, and they offer a variety of sashimi options. The menu includes tempura udon and chicken teriyaki, which come with rice, salad, and soup. The service is attentive, and the atmosphere is kid-friendly. Parking can be a challenge, but there are a few spots available in front and a park across the street.“

“BESHOCK Ramen East Village is a popular spot in San Diego, known for their delicious beef ramen and quick service. While some enjoy dishes like yellowtail sashimi and takoyaki, others find the vegetarian soup dense. The atmosphere offers a variety of Japanese drinks, but the sushi can be hit or miss for some customers. Despite occasional service issues and inconsistent quality of sushi, the ramen is a standout choice. With a wide selection of sake available, it's a great place to visit for a satisfying bowl of ramen, but other nearby options might be better for those seeking a more consistent sushi experience.“

“Ayu Sushi & Noodles offers a delightful dining experience. The menu features a range of dishes, including the Bulgogi pancake and fried rice, which are particularly delicious. The sushi rolls, such as the Cali roll and philly roll, are also highly recommended. The service is friendly and attentive, making it easy to have a conversation over dinner. The interior decor is reminiscent of traditional Japanese sushi houses, adding to the restaurant's cozy atmosphere.“

“RK Sushi is a highly recommended sushi spot offering a wide variety of fresh and delicious food options. The service is consistently praised as phenomenal, attentive, and helpful in answering questions. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and is perfect for both first-time visitors and regulars. Popular menu items include the Playboy Roll, edamame, crispy rice appetizer, mission roll, spicy albacore, nigori, and Kirin. The sushi is well-priced, with high-quality and fresh ingredients. The rolls are generously portioned, and the salmon belly sashimi melts in your mouth. The friendly staff and excellent service make for an enjoyable dining experience.“