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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Berkeley's best

Japanese lunch spots

Made for those who require a quick, efficient, and satisfying midday meal that doesn't sacrifice culinary standards.

Based on 604 Opinions
+601
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Updated May 2026
01
Sun Sun Sushi Shop image 1
Sun Sun Sushi Shop image 2
Sun Sun Sushi Shop image 3
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Sushi restaurant

Grab-and-go sushi spot with a lively atmosphere and cozy window tables. Fish quality is fresh and high, offering affordable prices that stand out in the area. Small space feels tidy and simple, catering mostly to quick pickups rather than dine-in.

Fresh sushi features seared nigiri that melts in your mouth and crunchy rolls with balanced flavors. Prices stay under $10 for quick, grab-and-go meals, with free gyoza and fried chicken sometimes offered.

Quick service suits a grab and go lunch or casual sushi cravings. Most people stop in during their lunch hour for a fast bite.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is so fresh and high quality."

Good to know

1

This spot is NOT a dine-in restaurant; it's designed for pick-up and go.

2

The prices at Sun Sun Sushi Shop are affordable, with many options under $10.

3

You can request any dish on the menu to be made fresh if it's not in the fridge.

02
Himalayan Bite image 1
Indian restaurant

Small, comfortable space with friendly atmosphere and cool vibe. Open kitchen adds transparency while double-walled dishes keep food hot. Music repeats, creating a slightly loud but inviting environment.

Chicken bento boxes come with tender chicken, spicy noodles, and fried cauliflower. Ramen features a thick, rich soup with a pleasant spice level. Bentos offer generous portions and include salad.

Lunch offers a student BOGO free special that draws a steady crowd. The spot serves as a reliable choice for a quick, satisfying break with family or solo.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The ramen here is rich and pleasantly spicy."

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Himalayan Bite serves free rice with curry orders.

2

A student BOGO free lunch special is available.

3

They serve halal meat options.

03
Butterfish Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small dining space with dimmed lighting and light music creates a cozy, buzzy atmosphere. Tables sit close together in a beautifully designed interior featuring thoughtful Japanese aesthetics. The place fills quickly, making reservations advisable for a lively, intimate experience.

Fresh, vibrant fish shines in every dish with perfectly cut nigiri and sushi rolls. The imported wasabi pickles and real wasabi on top add unique flavors, while the miso cod stands out as a recommended dish.

Lunch features quick service and a tuna and tempura shrimp roll that stands out. The spot closes after lunch to prep for dinner.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was the best I'd ever had."

"I thought the Japanese food here was the best I'd ever had."

"The staff here is so sweet and accommodating with my lunch spot needs."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Expect high prices for sushi, with some rolls costing around $20.

3

The restaurant emphasizes sustainability by using minimal plastic.

04
Itani Sushi - Berkeley image 1
Japanese restaurant

Indoor shared space opens to a sunny garden patio with ample seating and open doors. Atmosphere feels cool and cute, suited for quick, fresh sushi enjoyed on-site or to-go. Sushi preparation happens visibly at the bar, highlighting high-quality ingredients and excellent value for the price.

Fresh fish and a perfect rice to fish ratio make the sushi stand out. The crunchy nori, super fresh fish, and well-plated dishes create a quick, tasty Japanese food experience with great value.

Offers quick ready-made lunch options ideal for a fast meal. Lunch hours bring a busy atmosphere, while dinner feels more relaxed.

People are saying

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and delicious."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and always fresh."

"This Lunch Spot has the freshest fish I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Itani Sushi offers quick, ready-made lunch and dinner options.

2

The prices are reasonable for the quality of sushi provided.

3

To-go service is quick and comparable to a fancy omakase.

05
Mainichi Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a cozy and spacious interior with a casual yet luxurious atmosphere suited for groups and casual dates. The menu is huge with many choices, featuring fresh and authentic sushi praised for quality and generous portions. Free miso soup and orange slices accompany meals, adding a simple but thoughtful touch.

Sushi and sashimi come in generous portions with excellent quality. Meals include free miso soup and often end with cold orange desserts. Bento boxes offer fun and substantial options for dine-in.

Quick meals fit well here with a simple ambience that suits lunch. Flies from outside can make finishing the meal challenging.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The dinner spots here mean waiting forever for your food."

"The Lunch Spot's sashimi portions are generous and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is available directly in front of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers free miso soup with each meal.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere on Wednesday evenings.

06
Daruma Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant with traditional sushi bar and gorgeous woodwork creates an authentic, cozy atmosphere. Bright, cute interior feels warm and homey, with live music enhancing the vibe on some nights. Seating is intimate, with small tables and a main bar area accommodating about 18 people.

Sushi here features generously sized sashimi and next level unagi nigiri with fresh, delicate cuts. Yakitori offers well seasoned options including vegetarian choices, and the Okonomiyaki stands out as a local favorite.

Offers quick lunch options with great food quality. Suitable for a late lunch near work.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, was so fresh and tasty."

"I loved their happy hour, the prices were great."

"This Lunch Spot is great for a quick, delicious meal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted prices on select menu items.

2

Expect longer wait times for food during busy hours.

3

Online orders may take longer than estimated, especially during peak times.

07
Marugame Udon image 1
Udon noodle restaurant

Cafeteria-style seating with a self-service condiment island creates a casual, efficient dining experience. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, though sometimes loud and spacious. Many enjoy the customizable toppings bar and authentic udon made from imported Japanese wheat.

Udon noodles come from wheat flown in from Japan, ensuring freshness and authentic taste. Dishes like curry udon and beef udon stand out for their flavor, with options for vegan and vegetarian diets. Service is fast and prices stay reasonable.

Close proximity to work makes it a popular choice for a quick lunch. Expect a fast service but be ready for a line during peak hours.

People are saying

"The katsu curry rice was a favorite, with tender meat and crispy coating."

"The Japanese food udon noodles were perfectly chewy and delicious."

"It's a good lunch spot for a quick, cheap meal."

Good to know

1

Customers need to pay before sitting down, which allows everyone to pay separately.

2

The place has wheelchair access and is easy to maneuver inside for those with mobility difficulties.

3

Parking can be difficult because it's mostly street parking nearby.

08
Berkeley Bowl West image 1

Supermarket offers narrow aisles that often feel crowded and chaotic, especially on weekends. It features an enormous bulk section, a large deli and hot food area, and a notable mushroom selection unmatched in the region. The atmosphere balances a farmerโ€™s market aesthetic with a busy, energetic vibe.

Onigiri come in many varieties and prices stay reasonable between $2.80 and $5. Sushi, spam musubi, and local Japanese snacks like Hello Kitty ramune and ramen are available for takeout.

Great hot bar options make for a quick lunch. Taco bowls without tortillas cost less than $4. The lunch area gets busy at times. Many pick up deli items to enjoy a picnic elsewhere.

People are saying

"I found it to be the best grocery store."

"You can find so many exotic fruits and vegetables for Japanese food here."

"It's a great lunch spot with good prepared meal options."

Good to know

1

Parking at Berkeley Bowl West can be difficult.

2

Expect to find unique items here that you can't find anywhere else locally.

3

The store is known for its extensive variety of fresh produce.

09
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar image 1
Conveyor belt sushi restaurant

Conveyor belts and robots deliver sushi and drinks in a modernized sushi boat setting with a playful vibe. The atmosphere feels casual and fun, appealing especially to young adults with interactive screens and prizes. The space combines Japanese tourist themes with a clean, tech-driven dining experience.

Sushi features unique nigiri with toppings like yuzu, garlic ponzu sauce, miso cream cheese, and Japanese mayo. The wasabi is sharp and fresh, and the sushi quality is high with quick service and a revolving sushi bar setup.

Lunch hours have no wait lines on weekdays, making it easy to get seated quickly. The menu includes noodles alongside sushi, offering a solid midday meal option.

People are saying

"The revolving sushi experience here is really fun."

"The ordering process here is really unique and fun."

"The revolving sushi experience here is really fun."

Good to know

1

Using the mobile phone app makes ordering easy for groups.

2

There is no wait line for weekday lunches, making it a good time to visit.

3

Parking in downtown Berkeley can be challenging, especially before 6pm.

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