50 Best Japanese Restaurants near Scotch Plains

“Always love Go Sushi, it's our Sushi Place of choice, no matter if you eat in or take out the food / service is outta this world!!!!

We ate in today, it was our daughter's birthday yesterday and as always we were gifted an Ice-Cream Tempura with a candle on top as a Birthday Dessert - Thanx Again for a Yummy Dinner 😃“

“The sushi here never disappoints! I don't order here often but I've never had a bad or wrong order. The BBQ squid is so good, if you like that sort of thing. The Godzilla roll was my go to but I tried the Valentine roll and it's excellent. So many choices but love my favorites. I highly recommend trying them if you haven't already.“

“Great dinner on a Saturday afternoon. Monty the waiter was pleasant and helpful. Food was great and fast 😊“

“This food does not disappoint! Highly recommend the Bento Box dinners! It’s literally enough for 2-3 meals or if you can agree on the 2 choices definitely enough to share. Sashimi is fresh and delicious, sushi rolls are creative.“

“We used to come here very often over a decade ago. Read the reviews online and decided to give it a try since it said it’s under new management and things have improved. It is definitely brighter in here and better decorated than before. Fast service, very fresh fish, nice presentation, tasted good. Our server was very attentive.“

“I love coming to Wasai Bistro whenever I’m visiting the east coast. I’ve followed Chef Nelson since his days at Aozora and Wabi Sabi. His food quality, menu options, and value are unmatched in the area. Once you try his food you will understand why he has so many repeat diners. I highly recommend the Mes Reves Roll, Uni and bone marrow ramen, Miso glazed sea bass entree and salmon lover entree but it’s very hard to go wrong with anything Chef Nelson serves. Parking is street parking only but honestly I’ve always had a very easy time finding a spot. BYOB so you can drink what you love.“

“Very good dinner. Good size portions for the price. Definitely will come back“

“A friend and myself came across this gem by happenstance. The wait staff is incredibly kind and patient. The atmosphere was calming and the food is FANTABULOUS!!! I recommend this place for lunch and dinner. Whether it's just friends or a casual date.“

“Have been there so many times with friends, families and my kids. My kids love the traditional Taiwanese noodles, and I love their Japanese rolls. The cozy ambiance and friendly staff add to the overall dining experience, making it our favorite go-to restaurent! Love this place.“

“We love Aoi! It’s the best sushi and Japanese cuisine around.“

“Food is actually fair as compared to what we have tried for other japanese resto. Crews are pleasant. Ample spacing between tables, comfortable seats. High chair seen. Restroom is clean and smells neutral. Parking is difficult if it gets busy. See images and video for reference.“

“Good Date night me the wifey!“

“Love the sushi never a dull moment and the owner is very friendly and Great service“

“Very homie spot. It's definitely more of a to-go spot since they don't really serve you on actual plates in the restaurant. Both miso soup and rice came in a to go cup, all entree are in Togo containers. That being said the food is good, the rice always warm and the fish is fresh. Even on weekdays the fish is superb and lunch is a bargain. Worth a try forsure“

“This was my first visit to Blue Wazabi I Loved It!! Large menu selection and wonderful food and portion size. Definitely, will visit again.“

“Great service , good attention and fresh food“

“I get poke here after all my afternoon hikes and it’s definitely one of the best in NJ. Ingredients taste fresh and the portions are fair and filling. Theres so many different combinations. You get up to 2 protein, 5 topping, 3 crunchy toppings, and 2 sauce. Everying else is a bit extra. Really yummy and I’ll continue to eat here“

“For those that know me, there has been a legend I’ve spoken of many times. Once upon a time, there was a place which provided me with some of my best culinary memories ever. This legendary place was called Mr. Pi’s Sushi Restaurant in Metuchen, NJ. Almost ten years of amazing experiences I had accumulated there. However, one day this place of legend had eventually relocated and, in the years that followed, I spoke of, and daydreamed of, this legendary place quite often. Then, over a decade later, I accidentally find out that they have relocated back to the area near me. My sheer joy, the smile from ear to ear, the absolute excitement, was so intense it was practically palpable. Speaking of palpable… in their journey before returning to Middlesex County, in Highland Park this time around, they have made their menu even BETTER, which seems almost impossible for a place so legendary, but it’s true. They are the best version of themselves they’ve EVER been! If sushi restaurants have a glow up era, they most definitely are at the summit of it, and will most certainly remain there, as legends do. Welcome to Mr. Pi’s 3.0! Placing a restaurant into legendary status is neither something I do easily, haphazardly nor willy nilly. For, you see, I have quite literally tried sushi all over the world. I’ve had sushi in Europe, the UK, the South Pacific, Australia, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and yes, Japan. I’ve had sushi in (almost) every one of the 50 states, except for those states in which I just didn’t feel like risking my health by trying the sushi. Of all these places I’ve been to, all over the world, NOWHERE compares to Mr. Pi’s! They are the truest of diamonds, valuable beyond imagination! In an area of NJ where you can barely walk a block without finding yet another sushi restaurant, Mr. Pi’s OUTSHINES every single one of them, by far! What makes a place so legendary? Their food, first and foremost, is TOP TIER, ALWAYS FRESH, HIGH QUALITY, and BEAUTIFULLY, quite STUNNINGLY, PLATED! Great food alone, although amazing, does not grant legendary status. This next part is where many restaurants sadly fall short these days. SERVICE and HOSPITALITY are an art form that not many have mastered the way owner Jeannette and Sushi Maestro Pi have perfected it. They welcome each and every guest with the warmest of greetings, most genuine of smiles, and truly heartfelt interests in giving their customers a PREMIUM experience. How they are able to remember so many people by name is a talent so challenging it’s practically pure magic in and of itself. After even just a second visit, you will already feel like you are home when you dine here. Our server, Cindy, made sure we always had hot tea in our pot, drinks in our glasses, and our every need anticipated and catered to. She truly excelled in her attention to all the details of our dining experience! The atmosphere is a delight, with so much space that they have multiple dining areas and a banquet room that could easily accommodate 50, possibly even 75, people. They also have (a new territory for Pi’s), a full bar with a variety live music certain nights of the week. In this massive space which was once occupied by a Charlie Brown’s of decent proportions, they have managed to retain all the charm embodied in the sushi restaurants of their prior incarnations. Plenty of space, comfy seating, delightful decor, and a bar as well, make this yet another amazing quality this legend has taken on! Of course, one can not dub a restaurant a legend without discussing the food. In the only three times I’ve been in since discovering it’s reemergence locally, I have been dazzled by the displays of sushi some plated with dazzling miniature ice sculptures, as they’ve floated by my table onwards to their destination where I am sure there were patrons in absolute delight. On the menu you can find many of the usual items found in sushi restaurants, but there is quite a list of items that you will find only at Pi’s. Their special rolls have taken creativity to a new level of transcendence. In additi“

“I was craving good Japanese food close to home so I went to Teriyaki 1. I got the Chicken Bento box with a Shrimp roll, Angry Dragon roll and a Cucumber and Avocado roll. It was absolutely delicious that was my first time trying the Angry Dragon, and I enjoyed it. My food was fresh and full of flavor. The only room for improvement is that the spring rolls that came with my Bento box was too oily, I had to blot it with a towel to absorb the oil. Other than that the food was great and I highly recommend it to anyone, and would definitely go back. 👌🏾👍🏾“

“We used to come here on a weekly basis pre-Covid. Loved the food, but didn't like the service and felt the wait staff was rude.

Recently we had dinner here a few times and something has changed. The decor has been updated as has the menu and the wait staff is much, much better. In fact, they recognize us as former customers and are always happy to see us. We have now returned to coming here more regularly as the food is very good.

Sakura has a parking lot as well as options to park on the street. We never wait when we come here and it's BYOB, so we enjoy bringing our own selection of sake or wines.

Nice varied menu with lots of choices. Our favorites are chirashi sushi, age dashi tofu, all their special rolls are wonderful and my all-time favorite appetizer which is large enough to be an entree - Summer Garden.“

“As always, delicious food and great staff!“

“I had the honor privilege and luck of being the very first customer to be served at Kanpachi Sushi during their grand opening on 4/29/2022. The very first think I noticed was how friendly and inviting the staff is, they make you feel welcome the second that you step into their establishment. The second thing I noticed was the how the new renovation which makes you want to come in and have a seat at a table or sit at the sushi bar to watch the sushi master construct your order before your eyes. I am impressed with the addition of this new business to Amboy Ave. The food is fresh, top-quality ingredients prepared by a world class chief and sushi master. I had lunch there yesterday and today. Oh, and did I mention that Kanpachi is a BYOB establishment? Sushi steak and Hibachi lovers, do yourself a favor and get over there. I am making this my go to spot for lunch or dinner, I give Kanpachi 5 stars. Thank you for picking Amboy Ave to open your sushi house.“

“My people, this was the best food I have had scene the age of 11. It was splendid. You will enjoy every bite i promise you. I got the eel sushi. It all most made me pass out it taste so good. The texture and presentation was a living experience. Please don't deprived yourself of a wonderful experience 😇“

“sakae sushi has delicious foods.“

“Always delicious hot
fresh soups, sushi yummy, flavorful fusion dishes & lady server is always good to us, BYOB.services are great.recommend to all visitors.Extremely important Always Now more than ever to Support local ,during this tariff war& devastating trump agenda.highly recommend when traveling to area“

“This is THEE spot. I’ve been coming here since I started to high school and they are my shining beacon of hope and love. If Noodles Plus has 1,000 fans I am one of them, if they have 100 fans I am one of them, and if Noodles Plus has no fans, I must be dead.“

“Came here after work for dinner and was not disappointed. Appetizers and sushi came out very quickly, I ended up getting both a hot appetizer as well as one from the sushi bar. Additionally each of the three rolls I ordered were well made, all fish tasted fresh. I would return to sample more of their special rolls.“

“We always enjoy Yuki Hana. Since pandemic we've only ordered take-out, but look forward to dining in-person soon. Favorite dish, besides sushi, is katsudon. Delicious!“

“Great food !! Amazing service!! Absolutely loved it !“

“Outstanding food and very friendly staff ~ highly recommend!“

“Tried eating here for the first time. If you love good Japanese food...you MUST eat here. Out to go order included tempura green bean appetizer that was perfection on a plate. Next we got the shrimp and vegetables tempura that had 5 large delicious shrimp and pieces of sweet potato, broccoli, and onion. Crispy and tasty. We also tired the teriyaki chicken and the teriyaki salmon, both with salad, soup, and veggies. The salad come with a citrus ginger dressing (really good). The portions of chicken and salmon were just right and the flavor was one of the better teriyaki we have had in a long time. Overall, 5 out of 5. This may have been out first time, but it will not be the last! Eat here... you can thank me later.“

“Very nice place, lots of choices and fresh food. Now they are open for dining in, will be coming back“

“We love coming to Fujiyama Mama for our sushi Family day! Food is delicious and service is great as well.“

“5 Stars : Would Give More if I Could!
This sushi place is an absolute gem. From the moment you walk in, you’re welcomed with such warmth! it’s a sweet, cozy environment that makes you feel right at home. The staff are incredibly friendly and genuinely seem to care about your experience.

The menu is full of delicious options, and the quality is top-tier. The sashimi especially stands out—so fresh, perfectly cut, and just melts in your mouth. Every bite feels thoughtfully prepared. I’ve been to quite a few sushi spots, but this one truly stands out. If I could give more stars, I absolutely would. Highly recommend!“

“Definitely one of our go to places to eat in Westfield but then again can’t fault any restaurant. Food is always amazingly fresh, service is friendly and welcoming and the drinks free flowing….“

“I’ve been going to Rahway Sushi for years and can say the food is great. Check out the menu. Lots of great options.“

“Got take out here. Eel cucumber roll and California roll were super yummy. They offer combos for two and three rolls at a discounted price which was really awesome. Interior looks nice for dining in, so I definitely plan on coming back again.

Outside area around is walkable and has many tables and benches as well to eat outside, which is what I opted to do after picking up my food. Overall nice sushi spot in a nice area worth checking out.“

“This is a brand new, recently opened restaurant and wow did they deliver for first impressions. Food was absolutely incredible. The sushi was fresh and made quickly. I had the volcano roll and the Naruto rainbow row, it was beautiful and delicious. Very good quality cuts and tasted fresh Really impressed by their milk tea as well. We got the original and Taro milk tea and it was fantastic. Staff was also very friendly and helpful in deciding what to order. Would definitely be coming back the next time I’m in town!“

“Great experience at KURA!“

“Lara put on a great show and the food was very tasty for my moms birthday. Thank you Lara.“

“Food is good, I got the classic teriyaki chicken bento box. The Cali roll was good too. Edamame wasn’t very fresh, some of them had a moldy taste, but the salad and ginger dressing was good. This is definitely a pick up spot, it’s pretty dingy inside, not very clean and there’s no decor. The owners are very sweet and always have a smile on their face. I would recommend it if you want a very filling, pretty healthy, quick meal.“

“Amazing restaurant, Chef Jun locks it ⬇️, can't wait to come back. "FAT CUP", for the win, check out his awesome menu.“

“The food was quite delightful. When we came in we were seated immediately. Our orders were taken within 2 minutes and the food came out just 5 minutes later. The atmosphere was warm and cozy. The authenticity was also quite marvelous. Definitely coming back!

Dietary restrictions: Not sure I don’t have any.

Kid-friendliness: Pretty kid friendly. I saw that there were high seats for children and small kids enjoying everything.

Wheelchair accessibility: You have to get up stairs to go here so it might not be the best option but if you manage to get up, there is quite a lot of space for a wheelchair“

“Hibachi Express in Colonia was a great find! The service was super friendly, and my food came out quickly without sacrificing flavor. Everything was tasty and cooked just right. Perfect spot if you want delicious hibachi without a long wait!“

“Great casual spot for basic sushi. Consistent. Wide selection of rolls if that’s what you like, which is really their focus. Regular sushi, nigiri, sashimi is good for the location, not high end and limited varieties but always fresh. Generous portions. Great friendly staff.“

“Nothing beats enjoying the sushi at the restaurant but due to the covid pandemic and with an abundance of caution for safety the restaurant is takeout only. Regardless, Mr. Bin's is our "go-to" sushi place. We routinely travel from Union to Cranford because it's that good! The freshness is evident with every bite. The presentation of the sushi is perfect. I miss hanging with Mr. Bin at the restaurant and looking forward that once again. Especially his "special" selections that he surprises me with.“

“I recently visited Sultan Wok for a quick meal and was amazed. Their half chicken fried rice and boneless spare ribs were not only delicious but also served remarkably fast. The perfect balance of flavor in every bite and the swift service made my dining experience outstanding. Sultan Wok is definitely the go-to spot for anyone seeking great Chinese food without the hassle of waiting!“

“I had the chicken teriyaki, and it was delicious! The flavors were spot-on, and it was a satisfying meal. While I've occasionally encountered servers who seemed a bit grouchy, my recent visits have been more pleasant, which I appreciate. A friendly attitude really makes a difference—it’s good for business and makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Let’s all aim for a little extra kindness; it goes a long way!“

“Wonderful Japanese restaurant in the heart of downtown Cranford! Staff are courteous, attentive, and very accommodating. I especially appreciate the options of separate checks and allowing external cakes to be brought in for special occasions. Other places charge or don’t offer them at all, which is why I will continue to give Mizu my business. The sushi is absolutely amazing. The calamari or tuna avocado rolls are delightful. Dinner entrees never disappoint. Tempura, Teriyaki, and Crispy Red Snapper are incredible, just to name a few. I highly recommend this place and can’t wait to go back. BYOB.“