42 Best Japanese Restaurants near San Marcos

“We frequent this restaurant often during weekends. We typically come early part of lunch time, so we never have to wait for a table. Our go-to is usually Show You Ramen, Katsu Curry, Tonkatsu, Salmon Onigiri, and Umeboshi Onigiri. And from time to time, I would order the special Tan Tan Ramen. We love that the Ramen is always piping hot, which is much appreciated. Service is always great, and staff is attentive.“

“Came here with my mom and we had a really good experience. I’ve been here before for the pho and I’m honestly picky about it since it’s my favorite, but they do it right. It’s simple, flavorful, and just hits every time.

This time we tried the chicken cutlet curry and it reminded me so much of what I used to eat when I lived in Japan. It was actually really nostalgic.

The service was great too. The waiter wasn’t overbearing but still really attentive and on top of everything. The vibe was calm and just felt easy to enjoy.

It’s honestly hard to find places in the U.S. that feel authentic because it’s usually hit or miss, but this spot really delivers. Definitely one of my go-to spots now.“

“yellowtail roll is amazing!“

“Loved this hidden gem. We’ll be back! Everything including wine was delicious. 🥰🙏🏼“

“good sushi, and the teriyaki samon is delicious.“

“Today was our first time visiting, and to be perfectly honest, this will be our new go to for sushi, even though we live in Ramona. Everything from the appetizers to the drinks and service was great. It seems like it would be a great spot for game or fight nights as well!“

“I actually didn’t patronize the restaurant, but I had a dead battery and a dead battery jumper. When the neighboring UPS store refused to allow me to use an electrical outlet for 5 minutes, I popped in to ask them. They allowed me to without question. Good karma. Friendly customer service. I’m sure this is a reflection of their environment and culture. Hope to come back to try their food.“

“absolutely great. if ever back in Cali will definitely do again“

“This place is always amazing. The staff are always great and the food is so good it’s absurd. Ninja rolls all day long! Mmmmm“

“this is my favorite local sushi spot in Carlsbad! they have amazing options and all of the sushi i’ve tried is delicious (i recommend the awesome roll and the white house roll!) this is the spot if you want fast and efficient service and delicious food“

“Super tasty food, super reasonably priced. Highly recommend!“

“The best sushi spot at this time.
Owner and his manager are here and serving, they are from Korea, the good Korea. Sushi chefs are Japanese and awesome. Food is delicious, amazing, mouthwatering, beautiful… I simply do not have enough epithets to describe the quality and taste of this art.
Ambiance is tasteful, quiet “bring your best half” type.
Simply the best“

“Fresh sushi. I loved the fish selection. If you want the freshest fish, this is a go to place.“

“Teriyaki Chicken and Tempura Vegetables“

“First time visiting Hakumaru Sushi in 4S Ranch and I was really impressed! Although the restaurant is small, it feels spacious. The vibe is decidedly classy with rich dark hues, yet well lit. Service could not have been more professional, friendly, and accommodating. I ordered the Chicken Yakitori Bowl and it was excellent. Chunks of tender, tasty chicken thigh grilled with tare, green onion, cabbage and bell pepper, served over white rice. I also appreciated their use of stemless wine glasses. Highly recommended.“

“This place was a 10 upon walking in. Super Friendly and welcoming staff and great lunch specials. Portion sizes are opulent and food quality is superb. I happened upon this place, and will be a frequent patron. I highly recommend the Caterpillar roll.“

“LOVE the order ahead pick up drive through! Food is delish and service is on point! Thank you Mirin you never disappoint“

“1st timer here!

I read through the bad reviews and happy to share some advice. As far as wait time, it’s to be expected for this type of dining. I went in with the expectation of waiting, just check in and they will text when ready. As far as the quality, everything tasted fresh!! You get a full plate of veggies with tons of oils, sauces, and spice to add to your broth. Make sure to ask questions about the broth, some are simple so that you can add your preferred flavors. It seems like this isn’t a typical traditional hot pot set up and I’m totally okay with it. I actually enjoyed having my own pot and I was able to eat the entire thing.

Paid a little more for the premium meat, ribeye and short rib… I regret NOTHING! I guess I’m only sad that I didn’t have more of their pumpkin slices - pairs so well with the meat!!“

“Everything we ate was excellent!“

“It's amazing. Simply amazing. Great customer service. Delicious sushi. Good music. Love love love.“

“Food is awesome n delicious“

“LOVE the order ahead pick up drive through! Food is delish and service is on point! Thank you Mirin you never disappoint“

“I had such an amazing experience at Ramen Milk! The atmosphere is cozy and modern, perfect for a casual but elevated dining vibe. The ramen was absolutely delicious — rich, flavorful broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and super fresh toppings. You can really tell they care about quality and detail. The service was just as good — friendly, attentive, and welcoming from start to finish. Everything came out quickly, and the staff made great recommendations. Honestly, one of the best ramen spots I’ve tried. I’ll definitely be coming back and bringing friends. Highly recommend if you’re craving something comforting but high quality!“

“They say the 3rd time is a charm.
We tried to get in 2 different times but they were full.
On the 3rd try we understood why it's so crowded the food was fabulous. Hubby got drunken noodles loved them and I had Crispy Chickee and loved it also.
Try it you'll love it.“

“By far the best sushi in RB. If you’re new to the area or consider yourself local. Their sushi is legit. Ive been to Japan and I can tell you their sushi is as authentic as it gets. Ive also traveled to Korea and I can tell you their bulgogi reminds of the time I visited. Abel makes the sushi roles (amazing) and Jenny the server is really nice and adds to the authenticity of the restaurant. 10/10 recommend! Must make a priority to visit and try their red dragon roll and bulgogi bowl. Beer glasses are always cold/frozen for fresh japanese beer (sapporo/asahi) available. They also have fresh kimchi. Best of Japanese and Korean food all in one spot. All this at reasonable prices in San Diego.“

“Solid neighborhood joint for Japanese and Korean food. The ramen is decent as are the rolls. The staff is always friendly.

We come here on a pretty regular basis for a simple and well priced evening meal out.

Good food but not a destination.“

“This place makes the best Tonkatsu ramen (and probably the best ramen period) of 5 different joints I tried in my area including 3go, Ramen Mik, Mirin Cafe, Akita restaurant. The broth tastes the best and they have a special marinated soft boiled egg that no other place knows how to do (so good I order an extra egg). I get mine with chashu (grilled pork) which is also superior in flavor and preparation than all the other places. If you want Japanese ramen, look no further.“

“Me encanta el sushi y tienes muchas opciones!“

“The sushi is absolutely amazing! I haven't gotten sick once from them, where I have at other sushi places. Service is timely, pickup orders are always ready when they say it will be. I go to the Escondido location 😊“

“We came in after a hard day loading and wanted A great meal they went ahead and made our food even thought it was closing time, they could have told us they were closed! What awesome customer service, beautiful and very clean restaurant! Delicious food! Thank You for your hospitality! I wish I could give you 100 star rating!“

“Our first time after trying places when Akai Hana and we loved it. it's clean, inviting, friendly and the food/sushi is quality! We will be back.“

“Such a lovely place with a wonderful atmosphere. The interior is beautifully designed and full of small details that make the space feel special.
I was especially impressed by the fresh flower arrangements — they are incredibly stylish and thoughtfully composed. As someone who really appreciates aesthetics, this detail made a big impression on me.
The service was warm and attentive, and the rolls was very fresh with beautiful presentation.
We will definitely be coming back. Highly recommend!“

“This place is amazing. So yummy and the owners and staff are so kind and always attentive and the food is fresh.“

“Fresh fish, a great variety, and friendly staff! While it can get very busy with both dine-in and takeout orders, the team stays on top of it well. The chefs are happy to customize orders upon request. The outdoor patio is a huge plus, and their 50% off specials are awesome!“

“I recommend the lovely Gloria roll. It is absolutely delicious.“

“Absolutely Amazing! I've been a 3GO customer for many years and they have always had the best Sushi in Escondido and great prices too! During the pandemic I started ordering their food for delivery and they do an excellent job of packing too! 10/10 don't bother going anywhere else.“

“The staff is vey sweet sand helpful“

“Best all you can eat sushi in north county“

“Absolutely Delicious! SO Fresh! Great Customer service as well!“

“Greeeat food, service and music.- Loved it, I’ll definitely comeback when I’m im town again!! — PS.- Shaky/Shivering tables was weird to my Amigo Joe though.- What was that!? 😆“

“absolutely great. if ever back in Cali will definitely do again“