49 Best Japanese Restaurants near San Lorenzo

“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.“

“The sushi portions are generous and satisfying, and the atmosphere is great—comfortable and inviting. However, the service is lacking and could be more attentive. Overall, good food and ambiance, but the service could be better. Only reason not giving a 5 ⭐“

“My friend and I came for lunch, and we had a lovely afternoon. I got a poke bowl that was fresh, filling, and flavorful. My friend had a gorgeous sushi roll and miso soup. I ordered the house sale hot, and she got hot tea. The service was prompt and friendly without being overbearing. The overall vibe was popping over to a friend’s house and they just happen to have banging Japanese food. It was also a great value. I plan to come here again for sure.“

“Truly excellent place that has been here in the neighborhood forever. We've been coming here or getting orders togo for a decade and it's been the same folks running it the whole time and they are superb.
2025 update - still going strong. great food and great service!“

“This sushi restaurant its so good! The deluxe uni handball is SUPER tasty. I could have eaten 50 of them.

We ordered soft shell crab, which was a smaller crab than I am typically used to at ither places, but it still tasted good and had a nice crunchy texture.

The mix tempura was probably the best tempura I've had ever. The texture was light and crispy and not soggy at all (which is very easy for it to get).

Then we ordered chicken udon for our 3 year old, who lodged the noodles and broth.

We ordered the Deluxe sashimi as our main dish and it was absolutely delicious! I loved the ice underneath the radish to keep the sashimi cold (my daughter loved it too and kept eating it).

They gave us edaname beans and green tea ice cream complementary which was nice before abd after the meal.

I highly recommend!“

“Very good meal, service was great, I'll definitely be back.“

“Great fried chicken, and my friends food truck is there!“

“Absolutely amazing nigiri! They share a space with Jungdon Katsu which means you get the best of both worlds.
The nigiri was amazingg!! We got some to try their nigiri, we were mainly there for the Katsu. But the portioning was so good with the Tuna that we ordered more (and we even got a bit of a bonus from the chef).
The fish ratio to rice was spectacular.
I've seen poor reviews about the service/speed, which I could see happening if things get busy. There was one server for all the tables, the food is made to order so it takes a bit to get your food. We went on a Thursday night and had one party ahead of us. The food took 20 mins to get to us. However the KATSU was PIPING HOT! The nigiri was also quick to arrive.
You order via QR code and the server was polite so I couldn't see anything to complain about the service besides the speed.

The place is a bit hard to find but I liked the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant.
Overall amazing experience. I'll be writing my review for Jungdon Katsu as well!“

“First time here and probably last time too. I hella liked how the inside was decorated reminded me of a restaurant in Japan. Kinda disappointed though. I hella love sushi. But the sushi selection was small. Nothing caught my eye. The only thing I did enjoy with my meal was the ikura. The waitress’s don’t even check up on you to see how your doing. We we’re seated all the way in the back. I asked for more water and it never came. And for those 2 reasons I won’t come back.“

“Every roll was fresh, beautifully presented, and full of flavor. The staff were welcoming and attentive.
In the end they offered me plum wine but I asked for ice cream and they accommodated.
I’ll definitely be coming back!“

“I’ve been eyeing this place for months and finally was in the mood for sushi. The bento box was very fresh and delicious. I got the salmon teriyaki and spicy tuna. I also got the uji time ice cream. They offer a variety hand make ice cream that changes every week. This week I got the purple potato one. It was a perfect meal for an early dinner and the staff was very nice.“

“Okay, this is the fourth time we’ve been here this week so, I think we’ve crossed the official “rating your favorites” threshold. Pa’s Papa is ‘official’ in my heart for three reasons:
1. Every time I come in there’s a genially kind and friendly, LOCAL face to greet us! They hire folks from the neighborhood and I think that’s awesome and so “Official Oakland!”
2. Each visit our food has been so fresh, well seasoned, thoughtfully presented, packaged * and delicious The servings and pricing truly fair. *I teased the owner for teaching his young, new cashier how to properly bag hot soup like an official Oakland Chinese restaurant!
3. It’s a hella nice vibe. Every time. Music is upbeat, the restaurant is immaculately clean, and it’s a POSITIVE VIBE… that truly matters in this moment in time. I appreciate it.“

“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 :)“

“Think of the part last time you ate teriyaki...dried chicken with a bunch of gross sauce. This place perplexed me... the chicken and shrimp are perfectly cooked, with just enough sauce. The care in the prep is beyond anything you'd expect for what you'd think is a simple dish. I honestly can't think of another place that makes food this juicy, and with care. It's been on my weekly lunch rotation for a reason. Shame it's in a dead city bc you can tell they care when restaurants around them only care to make a buck.“

“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!“

“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!!“

“A great Japanese restuarant offering halal hibachi and sushi rolls. Small but cosy ambiance.
Personally love their dinner hibachi (Steak & chicken , steak & beef both). They serve hibachi with a soup and some salad which is great stuff. The spicy tuna rolls and the Californian rolls are worth the treat. I personally feel the hibachi serving should be slightly more but I don’t mind the current serving as well.
What I did not like was yakisoba, it had very less veges. Service overall is great. Must try if you’re looking for halal Japanese good food. However, it’s a bit pricy comparatively.“

“We had a Lion King Roll (this was baked so was a bit surprised but it was good), tonkatsu donburi, and a 2-item bento (beef teriyaki and tempura). Good value bento box…good sized portions and tasty (really enjoyed the salad which had a delicious creamy sesame dressing). My wife enjoyed the donburi which I had a bite of and thought it was delicious. We will be back to try other things on the menu.“

“Low key, family-run sushi spot out in the burbs. I usually get sashimi or one of the rolls. Now if you want to throw caution to the wind, get the roll called "I don't know". It's chef's choice, and it depends on the ingredients on hand that day. Sometimes it's great, sometimes less so. Regardless, the portion is always generous, and it's always a surprise.“

“Ever since the Marugame Alameda location opened, it’s been a main staple for my routine! The staff are kind and attentive, and the food is delicious. Compared to other locations, I’d say the Alameda location is among the better ones I have visited over the years. Even though the location is fairly new, opening this past year, it’s helped heightened my expectations of Marugame locations. I highly recommend coming here and ordering the Gyudon!“

“It can get busy really quick and for a great reason! This was one of the best ramen in the area, flavorful, great portion and amazing all around. It was not heavy greasy and the noodles were perfect.

Hubby and I only got the ramen but will def come back for the mazemen noodles. Their sides were vary flavorful too.

Good atmosphere, clean, small and the staff were super friendly and knowledgeable of the food, really appreciated that too.“

“Mijori – A Classic at Lake Merritt!

This little gem has been a mom-and-pop staple in Oakland for over 30 years, and they’re still going strong. The service is consistently friendly, and the food never misses. It’s a must-stop if you’re in the Lake Merritt area.

They offer a variety of weekly specials depending on the fresh fish they receive, so there’s always something new to try. Don’t skip the tuna salad—it’s topped with their house-made spicy Korean sauce, and it’s absolutely delicious.

The sushi we ordered tonight was fresh, sweet, well-seasoned, and simply satisfying. Pair it with a cold beer or a glass of sake, and you’re in for a great evening. Come check them out—you won’t be disappointed!

Don’t forget to follow for more Great foodie stops @Only1christinelu“

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

“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 😋“

“One of the best hidden treasures sushi restaurants on the island of Alameda.
At this posting, Omakase nigiri (10 pieces nigiri) for $52 or Sashimi omakase (10 pieces) for $48.
Good wine and sake menu. High quality sushi, unlike other sushi restaurants in Alameda.
Professional service with details.
Price value!“

“Tried Matzip recently under the new management and wow — everything was amazing. We ordered the buldak fried chicken, soy-garlic fried chicken, and jajangmyun, and each dish was spot on.

The fried chicken was crispy to absolute perfection — the kind of crunch you normally only find at top spots in Korea. The jajangmyun noodles were perfectly chewy and flavorful, exactly what you’d expect from an authentic Korean Chinese restaurant in Seoul. Even the side dishes, especially the kimchi, were fresh and balanced just right.

Overall, the food exceeded expectations. Highly recommend giving it a try and experiencing it for yourself. Matzip under new management is definitely worth checking out!“

“I am tourist here and this was the nearest sushi place near my Airbnb.
Food as good, the girl who served me was not warm at all. The moment I walked in she looked confused if she should serve me or not maybe because I was alone.
I loved the food. Green tea ice cream not so much. I wanted a bottle of water to take back to my Airbnb but they didn’t have any which is fine. I asked the girl where can I find a bottle of water near by “she said I don’t know” I paid my tab and walked out and saw hundreds of stores who sell bottle of water . Being a tourist I would have appreciated a little courtesy of just saying “ hey you can get water down the street” I wasn’t asking for much. But anyways I am glad I tipped her only $3.“

“Price is good and food is good.“

“best egg rolls and gyoza! I wish we could find teriyaki this good in WA“

“Even though I did not order anything from Koharu Japanese Cafe, this place of business has four restaurants combined in one location. The other three are Wok Chi (Chinese), Yue Club (dim sum) and Sachi (sushi).My visit there was for a YEE (Yelp Elite Event). The business was offering a complimentary food sampler. I chose the Wok Chi and paid extra for the Yue Club. The food was excellent. The dim sum was perfect with a cup of hot tea on a rainy day (January 27, 2021). I recommend the dim sum (har gow, siu mai, xlb dumplings, etc.)Service was quick and employees were pleasant and helpful. There will be a return visits in the near future for the beef chow fun and spicy eggplant.“

“The service was above average. The Sushi was fresh and delicious. However we chose this restaurant because of a Groupon. When we arrived we were informed they do not work with Groupon. Not a problem, Groupon refunded us, and gifted us $10 credit. It was just a small disappointment to not have a restaurant honor their commitment.“

“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“

“ラーメンと言っているが、そばや焼き鳥など日本のメニューが複数ある。 日本で食べるような美味しさは無いが困った時やどうしても日本の味が恋しい時などは行ける。 まあ、悪くはないとおもいます。“

“Hard to reserve seats at this 8 seat only Omakase behind an unmarked door in Alameda. Led by a quality, experience, and diner education obsessed chef who personally selects and imports most of the seafood from Japan.

It is a personally catered omakase bar service of very high quality. They also have a lovely sake selection.

Pricey, but worth it.“

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

“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“

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – A Hidden Gem Worth Every Bite!

We had an incredible Omakase experience at this unassuming gem in Castro Valley, and it truly exceeded all expectations. The service was a perfect 10/10 — the host was extremely attentive, warm, and made us feel genuinely taken care of throughout the evening.

The food was exceptional — fresh, beautifully composed, and full of thoughtful flavors that worked harmoniously together. Each course felt intentional and elevated, showcasing top-notch quality without the pretentiousness.

And the dessert? Unforgettable. The Hojicha panna cotta was an absolute standout — silky, flavorful, and the perfect ending to a phenomenal meal.

Overall, this place easily gets 100 out of 100 from us. If you’re looking for amazing food, impeccable service, and a truly memorable dining experience, this is the spot. A must-visit in Castro Valley! 🍣✨“

“This is a great Japanese restaurant. We had a great time. The food was excellent. The atmosphere is quaint and romantic. You can sit at wooden tables with chairs or sit on a mat at authentic Japanese style tables. I highly recommend this restaurant for fun casual dining or for a romantic date night.“

“Great people, fresh ingridients, authentic taste. Love it!!“

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

“The food, music, customer service, and ambiance is TOP TIER!! My go to is the sunshine and poki me roll! Tried the mystery box and it was a pleasant surprise! Whoever was on aux 9/20/25 plz send me your playlist lol. As always, Angryfish is *chef's kiss*“

“I was out walking my dog, and I got this craving for sushi. I had picked up delivery from here before doing Doordash, but never tried it myself. They were sort staffed so I did have to wait a bit. But it was 1000% worth the wait. I got the Lion Princess and the White Dragon. Both delicious. And the sauces on the side took it to another level.“

“The only legitimate and actually JAPANESE sushi restaurant in Hayward.

How do I know?

The sushi chefs are actually Japanese.

Which of course makes a difference to us who are Japanese, married to a Japanese person for 30+ years, have traveled to Japan, actually prepare Japanese food in our homes...

IYKYK“

“Great selection of food for everyone. We had a picky little, a vegan mama and a nigiri lover and we were all satisfied. Good amount of food for the price. Biggest bento box this side of the bay! Highly recommend you call ahead and reserve a table, they get pretty busy for dinner.“

“I couldn't find it inside marketplace, so I called them and got precise direction.
It is winter time, no tables outside, so I took a table between them and a butchery.
Chef's truffle tuna rolls are to die for.
They also have good selection of japanese sake in bottles.“

“We come here for every single birthday three times a year at the least 15 years . The customer service is amazing and the kindness is always there, phenomenal community minded local business. wonderful human beings inside oh and the food is very good too. I’m a vegan. Everything is always accommodating no problem.“

“Great food. Good portions. Our server is very nice, friendly, polite and professional.“

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

“The restaurant only for the reason of speaking another language within it the employees take Gonchi out of you is Can by the hair also they steal your belongings we made a case for the police“