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Top picks in El Cerrito

Japanese food

Authentic Japanese food that respects the craft without turning the experience into a formal, high-pressure event.

Based on 530 Opinions
+527
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Updated May 2026
01
Nori Roll image 1
Nori Roll image 2
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Sushi restaurant

Small takeout sushi shop with one 2-top table offers fresh, high-quality sushi at very reasonable prices. The atmosphere is efficient and unassuming, focused on quick service rather than dining in. Regulars appreciate the consistent freshness and value for money.

Food here is fresh and flavorful with consistently high quality. Portions are big and reasonably priced, served fast by a hardworking family-run team.

Freshness stands out with consistently fresh sushi and quality rice. The menu features top notch rolls and nigiri at fair prices, backed by friendly, family-owned service.

People are saying

"The takeout sushi here is top-notch, with really fresh, delicious fish."

"I found the Japanese food here to be fresh and delicious."

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

Nori Roll is primarily a takeout restaurant with a small dine-in table.

2

There was no seating available at Nori Roll.

3

The restaurant is incredibly popular in the evenings during dinner time.

02
Sushi Sho image 1
Japanese restaurant

Tiny space with seating at a sushi bar creates an intimate atmosphere where diners enjoy a single service per evening without feeling rushed. The vibe is light and jovial, with a focus on exquisite sushi crafted by a highly experienced chef using traditional techniques.

Food features very fresh ingredients and delicious flavors with perfect presentation. The chef engages in fun banter, adding to a light and friendly atmosphere.

Omakase features low-carb nigiri that highlights the fish's flavor with incredible freshness and careful presentation. The setting is intimate, seating only six diners, with a chef deeply passionate about sushi craft.

People are saying

"Chef Aki-san makes Japanese food entertaining and educational."

"Chef Aki-san explains each food item, enhancing the experience."

Good to know

1

Getting a reservation at Sushi Sho is challenging and should be done well in advance.

2

The restaurant is open only on Fridays and Saturdays starting in June.

3

There is only one service per evening, ensuring a relaxed dining experience.

03
Yaoya-San image 1
Japanese grocery store

Small, family-run Japanese grocery store offers a wide selection of authentic ingredients, snacks, and household items. Atmosphere feels mom and pop with a less cramped layout than larger markets. Known for fresh produce, traditional seasonings, and specialty items not found elsewhere.

Small store packed with Japanese food and tableware offers a great selection of prepared foods, snacks, and groceries. Food quality rates as 5-star, with both fresh and frozen options available.

Fresh sashimi and sushi ingredients stand out here. A wide variety of ponzu-type soy sauces and many kinds of wasabi peas complement the selection. Natto, udon, and poke bowl ingredients are also available.

People are saying

"This Japanese grocery store has a great selection of traditional ingredients."

"I always find great Japanese food ingredients here."

"I found a great selection of Japanese food and ingredients here."

Good to know

1

They offer a wide selection of authentic Japanese and Asian condiments.

2

The store has a great variety of fresh produce and specialty items.

3

Yaoya-San has a good selection of frozen foods and prepared meals.

04
Sushi Matsu image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers a cozy, calm atmosphere with live jazz music on weekend nights and a small bar area for watching chefs prepare meals. The space feels welcoming and unpretentious, attracting those who appreciate fresh, well-prepared sushi in a relaxed setting.

Food features fresh ingredients and prompt service with reasonable prices. Meals are consistently tasty and high quality, making it a reliable spot for lunch or dinner.

Fresh, high-quality sushi stands out with incredibly fresh fish and skilled sushi chefs. The menu includes a large selection of appetizers and bento boxes, plus delicious udon and soba options.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fresh, well-balanced, and beautifully prepared."

"The Sushi here is amazing, and the staff are so friendly."

"I found the food here to be delicious and made with fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available most of the week after 5 p.m.

2

Prices for sushi rolls range from $12 to $14.

3

The total bill for five rolls and one nigiri is around $80.

05
Kyoto Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant offers generous portions with varied ramen options, including a rare chicken broth base and a notable vegetarian ramen. Atmosphere is friendly and casual with a clean, plain interior that feels down-to-earth. Most orders go to-go or delivery despite ample seating, making it a practical spot for quick meals.

Food arrives quickly with ample portions. Dishes are consistently delicious and offer great value for the price.

Ramen here features rich broth served separately to keep it fresh, with options like black garlic, seafood, and a rare chicken base. Vegetarian ramen includes fresh vegetables and soft tofu with a savory broth that rivals pork-based ones.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is fresh and delicious."

"The ramen here is rich, fresh, and satisfying."

"The BBQ plates are delicious and the portions are generous."

Good to know

1

Kyoto Ramen is not suitable for parties of more than four people.

2

Almost all orders are to-go or delivery despite ample seating.

3

The ramen broth is served separately, ensuring it is fresh when I eat.

06
Yammy Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small interior creates a cozy and quiet atmosphere. Sushi rolls stand out with unique sauces and fresh ingredients. Staff includes owner, and the place stays clean and comfortable even when fairly busy.

Food arrives timely and tastes great with consistent quality. Prices stay reasonable while dishes satisfy expectations.

Sushi here is consistently fresh and well made, with standout rolls like the Treasure Island and super crunchy roll. The place stays sparkling clean and offers quick, friendly service alongside reasonable prices.

People are saying

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

"I found the food here to be tasty and of great quality."

"The service at this Lunch Spot was quick and friendly."

Good to know

1

Yammy Sushi offers a sizable menu that includes rolls, bowls, and salads.

2

The lunch special includes soup, salad, and rice for a great deal.

3

Prices at Yammy Sushi are reasonable compared to other sushi places.

07
Waikiki Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall Hawaiian restaurant with bare-bones decor and a clean kitchen and dining area. Offers large portions of flavorful dishes like chicken katsu and loco moco at reasonable prices. Atmosphere is simple and unpretentious, focusing on comfort food with an extensive menu.

Food comes out fresh and hot, prepared quickly with a focus on authentic Hawaiian flavors. Burgers and comfort dishes offer great value and satisfy cravings with tasty gravies and consistent quality.

Chicken Katsu stands out with a flavorful sauce. Other notable dishes include Spam Musubi and Teriyaki steak. The menu also features the Moco Loco and chicken teriyaki.

People are saying

"The chicken katsu here is beautifully crispy."

"I thought the Hawaiian BBQ dishes were above average and flavorful."

"I thought the Hawaiian food was delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

The meal costs less than $15 and offers large portions.

2

Parking is available in a lot inside the block, making it convenient.

3

They offer both half and full orders, with the full including 2 patties and 2 eggs.

08
Best Burritos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers heaping portions and competitive pricing with a clean, organized kitchen. Burritos come in large, flavorful varieties, including unique Korean-inspired options and fresh shrimp. The atmosphere feels like a family-owned comfort food haven with a straightforward, no-frills vibe.

Food offers big portions and a nice selection including Korean-style burritos like Galbi and spicy pork. The dishes serve as comfort food with quality comparable to typical Mexican spots.

Teriyaki burritos and teriyaki bowls feature prominently on the menu. Both options offer a solid take on Japanese flavors in a casual format.

People are saying

"I found the burrito here to be seriously delicious and loaded with fresh ingredients."

"The Japanese Food here is legitimately large."

"I loved the ground beef burritos; they really hit the spot."

Good to know

1

Restroom facilities are currently unavailable for customers.

2

Burritos are reasonably priced despite California's high cost of living.

3

Expect generous portions at competitive prices.

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El Cerrito, California

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