Small spot with an industrial look and cozy vibe gets lively at peak times. Tonkatsu shines with crispy breading and tender Hire-Katsu pork, paired perfectly with curry and classic sides. Casual, self-serve style keeps energy buzzing and seating comfy.
Tonkatsu stands out with perfectly crispy and light breading and a tangy, sweet katsu sauce. The Hire-Katsu filet pork is tender and thinner, offering a rare quality pork option. Curry pairs well with the tonkatsu, and sides include rice, pickled veggies, miso soup, and cabbage salad.
"The Japanese food, especially the katsu, is crispy with a juicy center."
Good to know
Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.
Expect a 15 to 40-minute wait during peak hours, particularly on Fridays.
Be cautious of peanuts in the sauce; call ahead for allergy accommodations.
Japanese restaurant in a business park serves fresh sushi and authentic yaki udon with large portions. The menu includes vegetarian and seafood options, balancing health and flavor. Enjoy a chill, family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor seating.
Sushi and sashimi come super fresh with generous portions of fish. The menu offers a variety of options like bowls, combos, rolls, udon, and salads, including authentic yaki udon with noodles.
"The Japanese food here is super fresh and flavorful."
Good to know
Yasai offers a variety of healthy options including bowls, sushi, and salads.
Portion sizes are generous, making it a good value for money.
Yasai provides vegetarian and seafood options for diverse diets.
Narrow space with tight seating creates a loud vibe. Younger crowd fills the room, making it lively but not quiet. Ramen shines with authentic tonkotsu broth and fresh noodles, paired well with crispy chicken karaage in big portions.
Ramen here stands out for its authentic tonkotsu broth and fresh noodles. The shoyu ramen and crispy chicken karaage come in generous portions and deliver solid flavor.
"I thought the ramen here was the best around."
Good to know
Reservations are required to avoid long wait times.
Parking can be difficult during peak hours; consider arriving early.
A 16% service charge is automatically added to all bills.
Ramen shines with Kyushu broth and tender chashu pork. Cozy space buzzes with energy and offers dog-friendly seating outside. Popular sides like takoyaki and gyoza pair well with attentive service.
Ramen features a traditional Kyushu thick white broth with soft-boiled egg and chashu pork slices. Takoyaki and Gyoza also appear as popular side dishes with amazing flavor and attentive service.
"The Japanese food here is really good and tasty."
Good to know
Reservations are recommended during peak hours to guarantee a seat.
The average price for a ramen bowl is around $20.
Parking can be limited during busy times, especially around lunchtime.
Small space with authentic Japanese decor offers a lively, family-friendly vibe. Fresh, high-quality sushi shines with rainbow and spicy salmon rolls at great prices. Busy sushi bar adds energy, making it a popular spot for reasonable lunch specials.
Sushi here stands out for its freshness and quality, often compared favorably to sushi in Japan. The menu includes well-sized rolls like rainbow and spicy salmon, plus dishes like katsu curry, all served at a reasonable price.
"The Japanese food's hand rolls are fresh and consistent."
Good to know
Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.
The $20 lunch special is a popular choice and offers great value.
Expect a wait during dinner hours; arriving early is advised.
Small café offers an intimate, cozy vibe with only two tables inside. Unique matcha drinks and authentic onigiri shine here. Atmosphere feels cute and bustling, perfect for quick pick-up visits.
Onigiri here shows amazing quality with each grain of rice visible and a great texture and flavor. The shop feels like a quaint Japanese cafe serving authentic onigiri and unique drinks.
"I loved the delicious onigiri; the rice had perfect texture."
Good to know
Lagu Cafe has very limited seating, making it a grab-and-go spot.
Online ordering is available for convenience.
The cafe often sells out of food items by the afternoon.
Small space with a cozy atmosphere and customizable spiciness makes it great for heat lovers. Japanese curry here boasts deeper flavors and generous portions like katsu meat. Seating suits pairs, but it can feel cramped and loud when busy.
Japanese curry here has deeper and more complex flavors than many other spots. The menu offers a good range of comfort food with generous portions like the katsu meat.
"I found the Japanese food to be the best I ever had."
Good to know
The dine-in area is tiny, so arrive early to secure a seat.
Add your name to the waitlist via Yelp to minimize wait times.
Outdoor seating is available for those who prefer it.
Open kitchen and freshly handmade udon create a lively, casual dining vibe. Self-serve tempura bar offers crispy crab sticks and shrimp, adding fun and flavor. Quick service suits families and casual visits, making it a welcoming spot for Japanese food lovers.
Freshly handmade udon features chewy noodles and a savory broth with options like beef udon and Kitsune Udon with slightly sweet fish cake. Tempura selections include crab sticks, shrimp, sweet potato, and pumpkin, all with a crispy texture and good flavor.
"The Japanese food here, especially the udon, is perfectly chewy and comforting."
Good to know
Expect a 25-minute wait for takeout orders during peak hours.
Parking is usually available behind the bank next to 7-Leaves.
A 15% discount is available for UCI students with valid ID.
Trendy sushi spot offers fresh sushi and artful rolls in a quiet, intimate setting. Modern decor and a glass kitchen add style. Enjoy fantastic sake alongside authentic Japanese dishes like miso black cod and uni don.
Fresh sushi features artful rolls and fish that melts in your mouth. The menu includes authentic Japanese dishes like miso black cod, uni don, and teriyaki salmon with very good sashimi quality.
"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."
Good to know
Making a reservation is advised due to busy hours, especially by 6:30 pm.
Lunch specials are available daily until 4pm, with deals around $25.
Omakase 10 pieces are priced at $50, offering a premium experience.
High-end European market style sets a relaxed atmosphere with impeccable cleanliness. Multiple bars, including a sushi bar with fresh options, offer great spots to eat and socialize. Friendly staff enhance the warm, inviting vibe throughout.
Sushi bar offers a variety of fresh sushi with a welcoming staff including Brandon, Annie, Jill, and Tomo. A small wine bar and restaurant complement the sushi section, alongside salad, hot, and soup bars.
"I loved the sushi here; it looked delicious."
Good to know
$2 off share plates available on select days.
$2 off all draft beers on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
The store offers a wide selection of high-quality produce.
Spacious shabu-shabu spot offers self-serve bars and personal pots for cooking with broths like Sukiyaki. Family-friendly vibe blends with a bustling energy and clean, organized stations. Frequent tempura Chinese pumpkin side adds a tasty touch to the meal.
Shabu shabu features personal pots for cooking with a choice of broths like Sukiyaki and Yukgaejang. Tempura Chinese pumpkin is a frequently refilled side that pairs well with the meal.
"I loved the shabu shabu buffet with its great variety of meats and ingredients."
Good to know
The all-you-can-eat price is $35.99 per person on weekends.
Reservations require the entire party to be present.
Expect long wait times on weekends; arrive early around 4:30 PM.
Japanese grocery store shines with fresh sashimi and a vibrant food court serving flavorful ramen and curry. Shoppers enjoy unique snacks and playful claw machines that brighten the atmosphere. Sweet treats like mochi donuts complete the experience.
Fresh sashimi and sushi-grade seafood stand out in the seafood section. The food court offers flavorful ramen and curry, alongside onigiri and bentos. Mochi donuts and pastries add sweet options.
"I found the Japanese food here to be amazing and vibrant."
Good to know
Mitsuwa Marketplace does not accept EBT.
Expect limited seating during peak times.
Mitsuwa offers unique items like Joice Chocolate not found elsewhere.
Small indoor space feels cramped but outdoor patio offers ample room and a pleasant atmosphere. Tonkotsu broth and vegan sesame ramen with charred broccolini highlight the Japanese food menu. Casual setting with comfortable chairs and lively, clean outdoor seating.
Ramen here stands out for its tonkotsu broth and vegan sesame ramen with charred broccolini. Options like shoyu ramen and pork rice bowls complement the menu with consistent, rich flavors.
"The ramen here is really good, with lots of toppings."
Good to know
HiroNori Craft Ramen does not accept cash; bring a card or electronic payment.
Expect long wait times, especially during busy hours with limited outdoor seating.
A 10% service charge is automatically added to all bills unless waived upon request.
Shabu-shabu spot shines with all-you-can-eat buffet and fresh noodles. Family-friendly vibe with indoor and outdoor seating suits groups well. DIY sauce bar adds personalized flavors to the Japanese dining experience.
Offers an all-you-can-eat shabu shabu buffet with freshly made noodles, especially ramen. Ends meals with soba and porridge for a complete experience.
"The Japanese food here has amazing broths and a great selection of meats."
Good to know
Dpot offers an all-you-can-eat menu for $35 per person.
Lunch prices are around $50 for two people, including tax.
The restaurant is closed every Sunday.
Robot servers add a playful tech vibe to a modern dining space with authentic Japanese hot pot. Enjoy all-you-can-eat meats and crispy chicken wings in a calm, upscale setting perfect for quiet meals.
All-you-can-eat hot pot features constant broth switching and high-quality meat. Crispy chicken wings and Takoyaki stand out alongside excellent tonkotsu and miso soups.
"The Japanese food here offers an amazing all-you-can-eat hot pot experience."
Good to know
The all-you-can-eat lunch special is $25 on weekdays, including Fridays.
Dinner prices are $33.99 on weekends for all-you-can-eat.
Parking is available in an underground structure, but can be hard to find after 6pm.
Massive Japanese grocery store buzzes with bustling festive atmosphere and crowded aisles. Sushi rolls shine with delicious sashimi focus and affordable prices. Outdoor seating near sushi spot offers a quick meal option amid extensive Japanese food choices.
Sushi rolls come delicious and reasonably priced with a strong focus on sashimi and sushi options. Prepacked bento and hot foods offer quick meals, while the hot bar and sushi section provide a wide selection of Japanese dishes and ingredients.
"The staff here is super kind and always cracks jokes."
Good to know
Parking is extremely challenging, with tight spaces and high demand.
Expect long lines, especially during peak hours and grand opening days.
Hot food selections may be limited, with some items frequently empty.
Ramen here boasts a creamy broth with standout options like Shio Ramen and toroniku curry. Quick service and affordable prices make it a great spot. Convenient market seating and easy parking add to the experience.
Ramen features a super flavorful broth with options like Shio Ramen and toroniku curry ramen that balance spice well. Rice pairs nicely when dipped in the soup, and smaller ramen sizes suit lighter appetites.
"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, has a soup that's not too greasy nor salty."
Good to know
Parking is available in the back of the plaza with direct access.
The ramen place is located inside Mitsuwa.
Lately, there is no wait at the Irvine location.
Sushi restaurant offers fresh nigiri and tasty bento boxes at great prices. Vibrant flower arrangements create a chic atmosphere that feels welcoming and family-friendly. Easy free parking adds convenience for all diners.
Sushi and sashimi come fresh with a great selection of rolls and high-quality nigiri. Bento boxes offer delicious value alongside affordable prices and a trendy vibe.
"The Japanese food here is great, especially the attentive service."
Good to know
There is easy free parking available.
The AYCE buffet costs $34.95 on weekdays and $39.95 on weekends for adults.
The restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat menu that includes sushi, ramen, and appetizers.
Open kitchen shows chefs crafting rich broth and homemade-style noodles. Unique dishes like green chili shio ramen and crispy fried chicken draw families. Digital waitlist eases busy times in this bright, authentic spot.
Ramen here features bouncy noodles that taste homemade and high-quality chashu with generous portions. The menu includes unique options like green chili shio ramen and rare finds such as seasonal Hiyashi Ramen.
"The Japanese food, especially the ramen and chicken, is so delicious."
Good to know
During busy periods, there may be a wait to be seated or served.
If it's the weekend, be prepared to wait.
You should put your name down and keep your phone in your hand at all times because the wait can be between 10 minutes and an hour.
Japanese restaurant serves all-you-can-eat Wagyu with cozy, warm vibes and chill music. Shabu Shabu and BBQ grilling offer authentic flavors with meats like ribeye and spicy miso tonkatsu. Space splits into bar and seating zones for a relaxed dining experience.
Offers both Shabu Shabu and BBQ grilling with a variety of meats, vegetables, and broths. Shared ribeye with spicy miso tonkatsu stands out as a filling option.
"The Japanese food here, especially the Wagyu shabu shabu, is a melt-in-your-mouth delight."
Good to know
Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.
The all-you-can-eat option is available, featuring a variety of meats and vegetables.
Expect longer wait times during weekends, especially for dinner.
Conveyor belts deliver fresh sushi with large portions and unique touches like truffle sauce. Bright, modern space with minimalist design keeps atmosphere relaxed and clean. Ordering via tablets or picking plates makes dining casual and efficient.
Sushi comes fresh and cut perfectly with large portions and a variety that includes truffle sauce on some pieces. The conveyor belt setup is sleek and adds a fun, energetic vibe to the experience.
"The Japanese food here is so fresh and beautifully presented."
Good to know
Expect wait times of 1-2 hours on weekends, especially during peak hours.
Most plates cost $3.75, making it reasonably priced for sushi.
Reservations are not accepted; join the online waitlist within a 4-mile radius.
Casual spot with a modern ambiance and cozy outdoor seating by a fire pit. Shoyu and tonkotsu broths shine with tender flavors, paired with crispy chicken karaage. Great for simple dates or family outings with reasonable prices and solid service.
Broths like shoyu and tonkotsu stand out with clear, tender flavors and perfectly cooked pork. Chicken karaage offers a crispy, flavorful side. Prices stay reasonable while service remains consistently great.
"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, is flavorful and perfectly cooked."
Good to know
Expect wait times exceeding two hours on weekends.
Reservations are recommended for peak hours to avoid long waits.
Online pickup orders are often unavailable; order directly through the website.
Authentic Nagoya dishes shine with fresh sashimi and hitsumabushi eel served in a sushi bar setting. Japanese-speaking staff and a crowd of locals create a genuine vibe. Limited seating means outdoor waiting can be uncomfortable but adds to the experience.
Sushi here features fresh sashimi and tender bluefin toro with a precise, focused sushi counter experience. The hitsumabushi stands out with eel on rice served with dashi, alongside izakaya dishes like mountain yam omelette and chicken karaage.
"The unagi don here is the best Japanese food I've had."
Good to know
Sagami requires ordering an additional dish per person due to a new rule.
There is an outside area at Sagami where dogs are permitted.
The unagi bowl costs $30, while the premium chirashi special is $50.
Cozy space with about a dozen tables and a sushi bar offers a relaxed vibe with calm music. Fresh fish shines in sushi and chirashi, showcasing authentic Japanese flavors. Generous portions of karaage and tonkatsu add hearty options to the menu.
Sushi here stands out for its freshness and excellent fish to rice ratio. The menu offers authentic Japanese dishes like chirashi, karaage, and tonkatsu, all served with generous portions and great flavor.
"I experienced the best sushi I have ever had in Orange County."
Good to know
Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait during busy hours.
Arrive early to secure a spot, especially for the lunch special.
The lunch special offers three dishes daily, limited to ten orders.
Cozy modern spot offers high-quality shabu shabu with broths like spicy miso and sukiyaki. Hip vibe fills the bar seating, creating a lively atmosphere especially during peak hours. A live drama show adds unique flair to the dining experience.
Shabu shabu stands out with various broth options like spicy miso, pork bone, and sukiyaki. The menu includes surf and turf with spicy sukiyaki sauce, plus starters like garlic shrimp and desserts such as mochi ice cream.
"I enjoyed the shabu shabu here; it's a great Japanese food option."
Good to know
Sign up for the waitlist on Yelp to avoid a 20+ minute wait, especially on weekends.
Mokkoji gets really busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
Reservations are recommended as tables are held for only 5 minutes.
Sushi spot shines with fresh bluefin tuna and super-sized bento boxes. Modern, clean space feels intimate yet lively when busy. Bold sides like spicy garlic edamame add punch to the Japanese menu.
Sushi here features big, fresh rolls and sashimi like bluefin tuna with crispy kale chips. Bento boxes come with super-sized portions and sides like spicy garlic edamame add bold flavor.
"The sushi here is spectacular and very tasty."
Good to know
The restaurant is fairly small and can fill up during busy times.
Niko Niko Sushi was super busy on New Year's Eve with to-go orders.
Each Bento Box includes rice, miso soup, salad, pickle, and orange slices.
Enjoy fresh ingredients in cozy, busy shabu-shabu spots with authentic Asian flavors. Individual hot pots and a fully stocked buffet offer seafood, vegetables, and tempura. Tight seating suits small groups but adds to the lively, hectic vibe.
Exceptional shabu shabu features fresh ingredients, excellent meat quality, and a variety of broths and sauces. A fully stocked food bar offers tofu, seafood, tempura, and a shaved ice station for dessert.
"The Japanese food here is so fresh with tons of delicious options."
Good to know
The price for a weekday all-you-can-eat lunch is $28.99, including a drink and dessert.
Dinner prices are $39.99, which may be considered pricey by some.
There is a 90-minute dining limit for all guests.
Cozy spot with aged decor and a lively crowd during family dinners. Sushi bar seats six, offering authentic sushi with standout Wagyu sushi. Large, fresh fish make dishes special and keep flavors vibrant.
Sushi here stays perfectly fresh and leans authentic when you know how to order. The Wagyu sushi stands out as a unique and tasty option. The sushi bar seats about six, keeping the vibe intimate.
"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is so fresh and tasty."
Good to know
Reservations can be easily made at Taiko Japanese Restaurant.
Expect generous portion sizes for the price at Taiko.
Prices for bento and sushi bowls range from $16 to $25.
Japanese restaurant buzzes with a lively atmosphere and fresh seafood from Japan. Sushi and sashimi shine with premium quality and well-seasoned rice. Sake served via a special dispenser adds to the authentic vibe.
Fresh sashimi and sushi stand out with well seasoned rice and large, fatty fish in the chirashi bowls. Lunch options like the sushi and udon combos offer great value with premium quality ingredients.
"I found the sushi and sashimi here to be the freshest and most delicious."
Good to know
Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.
Expect wait times of 30-60 minutes during peak dinner hours.
The lunch special offers good value, typically under $15.