36 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!“

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

“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“

“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.“

“One word: Bitersweet
I was on my birthday trip when i went to moment sushi, im from Virginia so im SO SAD im so far but SO GLAD i went! It's been a month and i still dream about these Handrolls. From the food, to the ambience, to the staffs knowledge and from how they treat you when you first come in til when you leave? AMAZING.
The appetizers were my favorite, I'm a tuna gal so ofcourse we got the Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice & the Bluefin Tuna Ponzu Wasabi (don't skip this one trust me - especially if you love tuna).

This is what I ordered for hand rolls:
Pictured Bottom Hand rolls (left to right): Albacore with mango ceviche, Hamachi with jalapeño, Panko shrimp tempura w tartar sauce, Tuna poke with crispy rice, Unagi with Avocado
Our server was so nice and advised me to eat the Unagi first since it came out hot (I agree should be eaten first BUT It's SOO GOOD i wish i would have ordered 2 one to start and one to finish) everything else was good - id probably skip the shrimp with tartar sauce.

We were lucky (we didn't have a reservation) but managed to snag a table outside in one of their heated bubbles. (They were so kind to offer a blanket as well)

Please know if I'm EVER in San Diego this is my first Dinner Stop.“

“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.“

“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!!“

“I stopped at Mot’to Japanese Grill and WOW… this place seriously delivers 🔥🔥🔥🔥

I ordered the Chicken & California Roll and it was so worth it. The grilled chicken was perfectly cooked and covered in rich, flavorful teriyaki sauce, and the California roll was super fresh and tasted way better than expected. 👀 It also came with rice, miso soup, and a salad, so you’re getting a full, satisfying meal. 🤤🫶🏻

Everything tasted fresh, clean, and really well put together—not heavy, just super enjoyable. The portions were solid, the flavors were on point, and you can tell they actually care about the quality. 😊💕

Service was quick and smooth, and the staff was friendly, which made the whole experience even better. 🫶🏻

Definitely one of those spots I’ll 💯 keep coming back to when I'm here in Carlsbad - highly recommend 🙌🏼🙌🏼👌🏼👌🏼“

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

“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.“

“Food is awesome n delicious“

“yellowtail roll is amazing!“

“I had such a great experience at Ayu Sushi in Carmel Valley! What I loved most was their dog-friendly patio—it's so spacious and convenient for pet owners. The staff were incredibly kind and welcoming, making sure both we and our pup were comfortable. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing outdoor lunch. The sushi was fresh and the service was top-notch. Definitely our new favorite local spot!“

“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 !“

“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!“

“We went on a Friday night and it was packed. Waited about 20 min to get seated. While the server was nice, service was horrendously slow and getting our food was even worse. We ordered 3 appetizers, a bento box, ramen and about 8 rolls. The appetizer rook so long that the owner gave me a free beer and apologized. Then my hubby's bento box and daughter's ramen came out first. They were fully finished while we were still waiting on our rolls. The owner came by again to apologize and gave us a free roll. She also came by when we were finished and again apologized profusely for the long delays with our food.

With that said, everything was fresh and delicious. We will definitely go back, but not on a Friday night.“

“Super authentic Japanese karaage; juicy, tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. The sauce was flavorful (I got the yuzu aioli), and everything felt thoughtfully prepared with care and Japanese pride. I hope this restaurant sticks around for a long time!“

“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.“

“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..“

“Heated outdoor, large menu, great food!“

“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.“

“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!“

“Good experience! Friendly atmosphere“

“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 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 🍣🍤🍣🍤🍣🍤🍣“

“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!“

“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.“

“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!? 😆“

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

“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.“