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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Downtown Berkeley

Japanese food spots

Made for those who seek out Japanese cuisine as their default choice for a satisfying meal.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tsuruya image 1
Tsuruya image 2
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Ramen restaurant

Small, cozy ramen restaurant with a compact interior featuring bar seating and tables. Atmosphere feels friendly and lively, with a family-run vibe and genuine care for food quality. Known for authentic, flavorful ramen that draws steady crowds despite limited seating.

Fresh, flavorful dishes deliver authentic Japanese cuisine with consistently top-notch quality. Staff contribute to a transformative dining experience.

Ramen here features detailed craftsmanship with perfect fixings and rich broth. The black garlic and vegan ramen stand out as especially excellent.

People are saying

"I found the spicy tonkotsu ramen to be phenomenal and deeply savory."

"I found the ramen broth here to be phenomenal and deeply savory."

"The ramen here is thoughtfully crafted with perfect noodles and tender chashu."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and seating is available in a clean alleyway.

2

Parking can be difficult, so plan to arrive early.

3

Expect long wait times as Tsuruya gets busy quickly.

02
Sun Sun Sushi Shop image 1
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.

Offers a solid variety of premade foods, including sushi and poke bowls. Food stays fresh and good quality even when pre-packed, with generous portions like the sushi special featuring tuna, salmon rolls, and sashimi.

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.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

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

"The food here is so fresh and tasty."

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.

03
Sushinista image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant with cozy layout and limited seating plays 70s soul music creating a relaxed vibe. Food features unique sushi rolls and healthy sushi burritos with local, organic ingredients. Atmosphere feels friendly and casual, with a focus on care and quality.

Food shows freshness and careful preparation with dishes like sushi rolls, croquettes, mochi doughnuts, and chicken sushirito. Quick service delivers consistently tasty and almost authentic flavors.

Sushi burritos here feature extremely fresh ingredients and sushi rice that tastes just like in Japan. Options like the unagi sushi burrito and beef sukiyaki bowl offer balanced flavors with sauces that are not overpowering.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and full of flavor."

"I loved the fresh sushi burritos with great flavor."

"The food here is fresh, tasty, and prepared with serious care."

Good to know

1

Takeout is available, but seating is very limited inside.

2

You're taking a gamble if you want to dine in due to few tables.

3

Prices are very reasonable, well below standard Berkeley prices.

04
Musashi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Quaint, quiet Japanese restaurant with authentic dishes and fresh sushi made to order. Interior offers varied seating areas and a charming atmosphere with occasional distractions from a large screen. The space feels tucked away, creating a calm dining experience despite its central location.

Fresh fish and authentic Japanese dishes stand out here. The food is beautifully presented with excellent quality and a good selection that keeps people coming back.

Fresh sushi and sashimi come with real grated wasabi and are made to order. The menu includes chirashi don with gorgeous presentation, ramen, katsu, and transformative tempura like soft shell crab and broccoli.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and beautifully presented."

"The fish here is so fresh and nicely presented."

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is so fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect some wait times due to the restaurant's smaller size.

3

There is limited indoor waiting space, so plan to wait outside if necessary.

05
Masa Ramen Bistro image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant offers an open, crisp atmosphere with Hawaiian music creating a calm and sweet vibe. Seating accommodates groups but front seats feel uncomfortable. Broth stands out as rich and flavorful, paired with craft noodles that suit many palates.

Hearty, flavorful dishes include miso-based ramens and authentic Hawaiian comfort food. Food quality and service stay consistently excellent.

Ramen features chewy noodles and a rich, flavorful soup made by boiling bones for hours. The menu includes the Broke Da Mouth ramen and oxtail ramen, offering authentic Japanese flavors with a spicy twist.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be very tasty and rich with flavors."

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, has a rich and satisfying broth."

"The ramen here is authentic and the broth is so good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving before 7pm helps avoid long waits.

2

Parking can be challenging, so consider public transport or rideshare options.

3

Expect some menu items to be sold out, especially during peak hours.

06
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.

Food comes out hot and fresh with consistent quality matching or exceeding other locations. Dishes taste delicious and satisfying every time.

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.

People are saying

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

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

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

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.

07
Kinda Izakaya image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Small space with Tokyo izakaya decor and walls covered in Japanese anime posters creates a lively, jovial atmosphere. Music and energy feel authentic and fun, attracting a popular, crowded vibe often filled with Japanese students at communal tables.

Food features authentic Japanese flavors with dishes like Okonomi Yakima that match traditional textures. Grilled fish, rolls, and deep fried items stand out alongside tasty drinks and friendly service.

Grilled meats and yakitori with smoky char stand out alongside authentic okonomiyaki and complexly flavored ramen broth. The menu features deep fried dishes, sukiyaki, and tofu, capturing the essence of Japanese izakaya cuisine.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is bursting with flavor and delicious."

"I thought the cocktails here were genuinely fantastic."

"I thought the mentaiko carbonara was the best food here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early or visit on weekdays.

3

Expect small portion sizes; consider ordering multiple dishes.

08
Wikiwiki Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Hawaiian restaurant with beachy decor and tropical plants creates a relaxed, island-style atmosphere. The vibe is laid-back and inviting, with soft lighting enhancing the chill mood. Large portions and a varied menu offer authentic Hawaiian flavors at reasonable prices.

Food comes out fast and fresh with a focus on Hawaiian cuisine that satisfies cravings well. Prices stay reasonable while delivering delicious and excellent dishes.

Crunchy chicken katsu stands out with a savory flavor that holds up even without sauce. Rich and flavorful teriyaki plates offer a classic taste, including options like beef and pork chop.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fast, good, and inexpensive."

"I found the chicken katsu here to be very good."

"The Japanese food, especially the chicken katsu, is delicious and crunchy."

Good to know

1

The prices are very reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

2

Expect large portions that are more than enough for one person.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for dining.

09
Ippuku image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Dark, traditional izakaya space with Japanese decor and private two-seater tables creates an intimate, cool vibe. Expansive whiskey bar and exceptional sake selection complement authentic yakitori and grilled skewers. Atmosphere suits small groups and dates seeking a quiet, immersive experience.

Authentic Japanese food shines here, especially the superb yakitori grilled dishes. The menu offers a variety of options that consistently impress with their quality and flavor.

Authentic izakaya-style dining shines here with superb yakitori grilled to perfection. The fried rice onigiri also stands out as a tasty option.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the grilled skewers, is amazing."

"The atmosphere here is cool, with chill music and happy people."

"The food here is fantastic, with charred grilled items on point."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

Expect long wait times during busy hours, especially on weekends.

3

You can order at the bar, but seating is not guaranteed without a reservation.

10
Nikko Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small local sushi spot offers a quiet atmosphere with pleasant decor and affordable prices. The menu is limited but focused, featuring fresh sashimi and smooth dry sake. Afternoon visits provide comfortable space away from busy surroundings.

Food shows high quality and freshness with consistently delicious flavors.

Generous bento boxes come with teriyaki, sashimi, tempura, salad, rice, and soup. Miso soup and shrimp tempura rolls stay fresh and crispy. Service is fast and friendly, with affordable prices.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"I had the best sushi I've ever had in my life."

"The Japanese food here, especially the sashimi, is incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Prices at Nikko Sushi are affordable for sushi in the area.

2

The portion sizes and quality offer good value for the price.

3

The menu is relatively small, limiting choices for diners.

11
Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya image 1
Modern izakaya restaurant

Modern izakaya with sleek decor and an open kitchen creates an upscale yet casual atmosphere. The space feels spacious with tall ceilings that balance lively music. Warm and inviting vibe suits a cozy dining experience.

Food here shines with fantastic flavors and amazing fish. Every dish, from appetizers to desserts, offers a unique taste experience that delights the palate.

Deluxe sashimi features high-quality seared tuna, toro, kanpachi, kanpachi belly, and sea trout, all fresh and flavorful. The menu blends classic izakaya vibes with a unique fusion of Japanese and seafood dishes like chicken katsu and grilled salmon.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is amazing and melts in your mouth."

"The fish here is so fresh, it's like it came straight off the boat."

"The food here is delicious, especially the salmon."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like New Year's Eve.

2

Expect to pay around $145 per person for the New Year's Eve prix fixe menu.

3

Portion sizes are small; plan to order multiple dishes for a full meal.

12
IPPUDO Berkeley image 1
Ramen restaurant

Large, airy space with modern cozy interior and Japanese menu wall art creates an inviting atmosphere. Loud and friendly vibe attracts a college crowd, making it lively especially in groups. Known for authentic ramen and popular pork buns, it balances quality with a bustling energy.

Food features wonderful flavors and beautiful presentation with good noodle texture. Service is fast, delivering dishes within minutes, and portions avoid feeling overly oily or heavy.

Spicy karaka paste and rich tonkotsu broth create a flavorful ramen with a satisfying kick. Noodles stay supple and the broth offers a heartwarming umami experience.

People are saying

"The ramen and chicken karaage here are amazing."

"I thought the ramen here was some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the Japanese ramen here was some of the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Ippudo is open and serving ramen at 9pm on Christmas Eve.

2

Parking near Ippudo is difficult due to limited availability and high foot traffic.

3

The total cost for a meal can be around $40 for one person.

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