39 Best Japanese Restaurants near Solana Beach

“This is quite easily the best sushi restaurant we’ve eaten in since moving to San Diego years ago. The fish is fresh, always consistent and the owners treat us like regulars. Because we are. If you like sushi that’s inventive, tasty and fresh consider Samurai!“

“I ordered sashimi at the sushi bar for lunch also had 2 piece Ikura (salmon roe) and a soft shell crab appetizer. Fish was very fresh it was obvious since they were still breaking it down in front of me. 2 guys on the sushi bar 3 in the back and one waitress. I was probably 2nd customer and only person at the bar. I got a weird look from waitress when I asked for the bar and she had to ask one of the guys if it was ok. I soon realized that it was not a real sushi bar after I looked at the menu and realized that they did not have sashimi on the menu.
When I go to a new place I usually order sashimi before I look at a menu because I know what I want.
The place filled up quick and the one waitress was running hard but the guys at the bar took care of me. Fresh fish good beer and sake I was very happy.
Music was very loud and irritating some kind of pop but the guys had no problem turning it down (they did not like it either).
I found it strange that they were pre-cutting the fish into slices but I guess if you are doing production that makes sense, I just have never seen it.
I read a lot of the reviews and part of the problem is people going to a sushi bar for something other than sushi. On the other hand if a restaurant is going to offer it it should be good.

Spent $120 after tip but it was at the coast on pch so location and all. Not to much more than my normal spot maybe $20 or so.

I was happy with my dining experience.“

“Fantastic food quality. Purist food.“

“The sushi is amazing...baked salmon roll and Philly rolls are my go to!“

“We dined at their SM North Edsa branch. Good food. 👌 Crews were accommodating. 💯“

“Happy Hour is such a good deal - pretty much everything is 50% off - apps, sushi, special rolls, entrees. Only sashimi, drinks and a small section of the rolls are not on sale.
the yellowtail nigiri I had was super fresh.
Crispy rice was excellent!
Rolls are huge! But not in a good way. I like traditional size that fits nicely in your mouth in one bite, but they have american size rolls, oh well.“

“Stumbled upon this spot when we were craving sushi. Our servers were incredibly hospitable and the atmosphere made it one of the most memorable nights my partner and I had during our trip to San Diego. It's been over a month and I still think about our dinner experience here. Highly recommend 👌“

“This place was really good. I got a to-go order and was really surprised at how many extra sides I got along with my two rolls. I didn't think I ordered that much but was absolutely full when I ate everything. The Philadelphia roll had a generous amount of cream cheese. I'm definitely going back for more.“

“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!!“

“Act of kindness and respect. My husband is a Vietnam vet. We ordered our food at the counter. We didn’t notice the placard at the counter saying “ we give discounts to vets”. Our number was called and we went to the counter, paid and brought the delicious Japanese food to our table. I asked Buddy, did you get your discount? He was unaware. We inquired about it mid meal. They offered to re-ring our tab. We said don’t bother, we’ll get you next time. The owner or manager not sure who he was didn’t let it go. He noticed we were drinking water with our meal. He came over with bottled water and said this is for you. We honor all veterans. Thank you for your service. It really touched our hearts. Made our day. Not to mention the food was excellent and fresh“

“FABULOUS LUNCH ! Hey I have never been inside a Japanese restaurant in my life. On the other hand my wife has traveled to Japan many times for her work and loves Japanese food...her fav is Chicken Yakitori. NOTE ! I saw a video a few days ago of Chicken Katsu Curry posted by my mate Jack...one of my best friends on Yelp. It looked so delicious that I had to have it. TODAY ! My wife and I were down in La Jolla taking care of business. I had previously looked up URBN Sushi and knew they served Chicken Katsu Curry and Chicken Yakitori. After a slow 10 minute drive due to roadworks...we arrived here at around 2pm. A friendly server named Henry greeted us with a big smile when we entered. Glasses of iced water came out quick followed by COMPLIMENTARY bowls of Miso soup and Edamame Beans. My wife ordered a Chicken Yakitori Starter and I had to have the Chicken Katsu Curry of course. A few more customers trickled in while we waited for our lunch order to arrive. WHOO HOO ! My wife's Chicken Yakitori Starter...2 skewers arrived first followed soon after by my beautiful looking Chicken Katsu Curry. TOTALLY DELICIOUS ! There is a first time for everything and now I know I love this dish. MORE ! My wife loved her Chicken Yakitori skewers but needed more food so a Vegetable Tempura Starter came out within a few minutes. And I pinched a few pieces...so delicious. THE MENU IS HUGE ! We were more than happy with our first lunch visit but there is so much more to try on the menu. TOP SERVICE ! Our server Henry was great the whole time answering all my questions about items on the menu. WE LOVED IT !“

“Food is awesome n delicious“

“I come here often to get crunchy roll, California roll, mango habanero roll and gyoza. The service has been consistent . It’s a small restaurant with unique decor. There’s plenty of parking out front. I’ll continue to go back when i crave some crunchy rolls.“

“I usually don’t to restaurants that are overly broad with the foods they serve, but I’m glad I did! This place is excellent. I shared the 2 x $25 meal (gyu-don and chicken karaage) and a salmon poke bowl. Karaage was super light and crispy and the gyu-don was exactly what I was imagining. The salmon poke bowl also great, with a mix of raw and seared salmon. The seared salmon was a great touch! Overall, everything was delicious and very good portions. I will definitely be returning to try some other menu items!“

“yellowtail roll is amazing!“

“Food is amazing.
Rose lychee green tea is refreshing and my new favorite

I had the chicken pad Thai level 1 spice and it was great. Not too spicy. But it has a decent kick to it.

I definitely want to try the bbq honey pork next.“

“Amazing sushi and noodles at Ayu Sushi & Noodles in Pacific Highlands Ranch in Carmel Valley. We loved everything, the tempura udon, the yume, sachi, and anata rolls, the bluefin crudo, and the salmon hand rolls. Great selection of species on the menu, next time will need to get more nigiri and sashimi. Great service, friendly and quick. We sat on the dog friendly patio. Recommend!“

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

“It is a fun place to be! variety of foods available.“

“I’ve never had a bad time at Glass Box! The food is amazing and the servers, sushi chefs, and management team will make you feel kind you’re a VIP from the second you walk in their establishment. I highly recommend the omakase experience!“

“Shiku Sushi has the best atmosphere for dining, from their amazing menu and service. You are greeted the minute you enter and each server has a smile for you. I love the rolls, and I try different ones each visit. Casanova, Summer Beach Body to name a few. This Sushi bar is a MUST when you're visiting. You won't be disappointed!“

“Me encanta el sushi y tienes muchas opciones!“

“Pay attention everyone. THIS is how you operate a sushi restaurant.

We were greeted by the sushi chefs from across the room as we entered the front door. Seconds later, the wait staff guided us to a table. Water arrived lickity split, and our waitress patiently checked on us a couple of times until we were ready to order.

Miso soup and a side salad came with our entrees; they came out quickly and were delicious. The sushi didn’t take long, either. Before we knew it, our plates were empty and the owner herself came by to see how we enjoyed our meal. And we weren’t big spenders like the table next to us, but we were treated as if we were.

This is how you run a restaurant. It’s really not a high bar, but it’s astonishing how so few restaurants “get it.”“

“Please please please support this place!

Incredible service, the food is so good, it's extremely reasonably priced especially for San Diego. I can't say enough about it. Transports me back to Japan and soothes the soul.“

“The food was delicious I recommend it everyone.... FrIendly waiter u can see them making the food I enjoyed it.. I’m coming to eat..“

“Stumbled upon this little restaurant in Miramar when I was in the area. Came in for a late lunch and the place was empty. There was a musty smell and I think it must be because the building is old. But the restaurant was clean and service was quick.
I ordered my chicken,beef, and veggie combo rice bowl to go. There was a lot of food and the price was very reasonable. Good place to grab lunch on the go.“

“We sat at Sam Cha’s sushi bar and it was amazing. This will be our go-to place for sushi. Great food, fun ambiance, easy parking. We can’t wait to return.“

“Where can I begin? Have you ever walked into a place and just felt like you were in heaven? The attention to detail as you walk into the restaurant and look around, every detail seems to have been given great thought. There was a place for women to store their bags without putting them on the floor. The food was absolutely breathtaking. From the sashimi that melts in your mouth, the appetizers that start the meal just right, the rolls you can’t find anywhere else to your classic favorites, the drinks that are exceptional, to the desserts that you just don’t want to stop at one, this place will not disappoint! I don’t think I can ever go to another sushi restaurant again after this meal! If you ever want to see heaven on earth in a restaurant, be sure to book a reservation so you do not miss out!!!“

“Heated outdoor, large menu, great food!“

“Good experience! Friendly atmosphere“

“it looks delicious never tried it I live in Puerto Rico USA used to live in California and ate sushi twice a week so I know west coast sushi, sashimi, miso etc. are the best your pics sure make me hungry thanks for sharing I would eat the entire tray 🍣🍤🍣🍤🍣🍤🍣“

“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!“

“It is an okay place for a fast bite of sushi. Atmosphere is average. Service was average. Food was just edible. Not bad but not really good. Mediocre.“

“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!“

“We have been enjoying Katana sushi for the 3+ years that we've lived in Carmel Valley. It is an amazing go to for a great meal when we have company in town or just want to enjoy a date or family night out. The food is always expertly prepared, the prices are great and the staff are courteous and quick. In our opinion it is the best sushi in the Carmel Valley area.“

“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!? 😆“

“While roaming around the fast food area in UTC, my mom and I decided to try a Japanese food. We both ordered the same meal: a combo of beef and chicken teriyaki with rice and veggies. It was delicious! It was nice to be able to watch the chefs cook our food. The seating was comfortable, and the servers and cooks were really friendly. The portions were generous too, we even had leftovers.“

“Delicious options for vegans, nice customer service, outdoor dining 👍🏻“

“Really good food and service“