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Japanese food date spots in Pasadena

A quiet evening over Japanese food is the only way to focus on someone special.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Haruka Sake and Sushi Pasadena image 1
Haruka Sake and Sushi Pasadena image 2
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Newly remodeled space features modern furnishings, clean lines, and cozy lighting that create a super chill, relaxing atmosphere. Fresh, high-quality sushi and sashimi arrive quickly, complementing the peaceful vibe. The setting feels welcoming, like hanging out at a good friend's place.

Sushi here features melt-in-your-mouth seared salmon and fresh eel sashimi with delicate, delicious flavors. Rolls like the California roll come out rich and buttery, paired with authentic bento and top-quality sashimi.

Impressive atmosphere welcomes couples right away. They serve tempera green tea ice cream in a large shareable size for special occasions.

People are saying

"The sushi here is top quality and tastes fantastic."

"The Japanese food here is fantastic and the fish is super fresh."

"The sushi here is incredibly fresh and delicious for a date spot."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and free, with plenty of space in the plaza lot.

2

Tesla Supercharger stations are available in the parking lot.

3

The restaurant offers quick service with virtually no wait time.

02
Sato Ramen House image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen restaurant with classic Japanese decor featuring beautiful wall murals and dim lighting creates a quiet, charming atmosphere. Spacious seating allows for comfortable dining without feeling crowded. Two large TVs showing basketball add a casual touch to the otherwise relaxed setting.

Ramen here stands out for its rich broth and spicy heat that arrives hot every time. The menu includes a flavorful curry and a rare, well-made shoyu ramen, all served affordably in a pleasant setting.

Pairs well with Sapporo beer and offers Tonkatsu ramen that is balanced and not too salty. The setting suits couples looking for a relaxed dinner spot.

People are saying

"The Yuzu Shio Ramen is light, refreshing, and has a gentle citrus flavor."

"The Japanese food here, especially the ramen, is full of authentic flavor."

"The ramen here is amazing, especially the spicy pork."

Good to know

1

Reservations are only accepted for groups of six or more.

2

Prices are affordable, typically under $40 for two people with leftovers.

3

The restaurant allows guests to bring their own cake and champagne at no extra cost.

03
KAVIAR Restaurants image 1
Japanese restaurant

Interior features life-size Samurai warrior sculptures and fashionable, trendy decor with dim, warm lighting creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Lounge music plays softly, enhancing a unique vibe that sets it apart from typical sushi restaurants. Creative cocktails and beautifully presented dishes add to a special dining experience.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and artful presentation. Each piece blends flavor and finesse with careful preparation that goes beyond just looks.

Dark and romantic atmosphere sets a sexy vibe ideal for date nights. The space feels incredibly beautiful, creating a perfect setting for couples.

People are saying

"I experienced the best sushi I ever had."

"This is a great date spot for flavorful sushi and amazing atmosphere."

"The atmosphere at Caviar is intimate, sexy, and sophisticated."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

Brunch service starts at 10am on weekends.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

04
Mills Alley image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open kitchen and clean, modern decor create a spacious, inviting atmosphere with well-spaced seating and cushioned chairs. Conversation flows easily thanks to good acoustics despite hard surfaces. Extensive sake selection and fresh, flavorful sushi and skewers complement the artistic Japanese cuisine vibe.

Friendly chefs at the open sushi bar offer suggestions and greet guests warmly. The menu features perfectly light sushi like scallops, bluefin, and uni, plus rich dishes like shoyu ramen with a soft-boiled egg and Mentaiko cream udon.

Service and ambiance create an ideal setting for a dinner date. The atmosphere suits both casual catch-ups and more intimate date nights.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich, balanced, and deeply umami."

"The sashimi here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The special Valentine's Day menu for two was fantastic."

Good to know

1

Reservations for the omakase experience are recommended at least one week in advance.

2

Expect a short wait time during weekday dinners.

3

The sushi is priced at $7.00 per piece, which is higher than average.

05
Oseyo Shabu Shabu image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Individual hot pots with induction heating create a clean, cozy setting enhanced by wooden decor and floral arrangements. The atmosphere stays lively around lunchtime with a K-pop soundtrack adding energy. The space suits small groups or solo diners seeking a casual, warm meal experience.

Fresh, high-quality meats and flavorful broths create a full-on shabu shabu experience. Options include Angus Beef and Australian Lamb sets with plenty of meat, vegetables, udon, and rice.

Tables encourage intimate conversations and shared cooking, making it ideal for low-key date nights. The setting suits small gatherings or solo diners seeking a quiet meal.

People are saying

"The shabu shabu here is delicious and the meat is so tender."

"The Japanese food's beef is so tender and flavorful."

"The service here makes it a great spot for a date."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour deals offer great value from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

The restaurant offers a two-person feast for $80, including drinks and dessert.

3

Parking is easy and free outside the restaurant.

06
Sushigah image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small corner sushi restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with pleasant music and cute high tops. Limited seating includes bar seats facing a window for people watching. Sushi and rolls taste fresh and delicious, complemented by house-made fruit shochu.

Sushi and sashimi come fresh and cut to perfection with standout options like salmon and squid sushi. Staff accommodate special requests, making the experience welcoming and personalized.

Chill atmosphere and nice ambiance create a relaxed setting. Food tastes delicious, making it a solid choice for a date night.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food here has really attentive and friendly service."

"The sashimi here is so fresh and delicious."

"This place has delicious sushi, perfect for date spots."

Good to know

1

Parking is located in the same building, making it super accessible.

2

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible through the side entrance.

3

Sushigah has limited seating, so expect a wait during peak hours.

07
Go Go Sushi image 1
Conveyor belt sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers an inviting, warm atmosphere with a Las Vegas lounge vibe and beautifully decorated interior. Music adds to the chill energy while the sushi bar provides a fresh and tasty experience. The place stands out for friendly service and accommodating dietary restrictions.

Sushi features fresh, high-quality fish with big servings and a variety of rolls like the Rainbow Roll and salmon roll. Service stays attentive and friendly, and dishes like chicken katsu and shrimp tempura curry add variety beyond sushi.

Regular visits with a partner make this spot a familiar choice for date nights. It offers a setting that can change opinions about sushi and supports enjoyable moments with family and couples alike.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious Japanese food, especially the fresh sushi rolls."

"The sushi here is always fresh and delicious for a great date spot."

"There's plenty of parking available, which is a huge plus."

Good to know

1

Happy hour pricing is available from 11:30 am until 3 pm.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

3

The menu offers a variety of sushi and hot dishes.

08
Alexander's Steakhouse Pasadena image 1

Steakhouse offers an elegant, refined atmosphere with soft lighting and black and white decor that creates a cozy, intimate setting. The space feels wide and open yet comfortable, encouraging meaningful conversations. Known for top-notch steaks and expertly crafted cocktails, it attracts diners seeking a sophisticated dining experience.

Omakase features wagyu aburi nigiri, uni toast, and a variety of dishes like bacon wrapped shrimp and pork tonkatsu. The menu blends Asian flavors with unique items such as lobster ramen and octopus.

Steaks come cooked to perfection with rich, flavorful seasoning that even those who usually avoid peppercorn enjoy. Staff create a special atmosphere that enhances the dining experience for couples.

People are saying

"The Wagyu steak here is perfectly marbled and rich with umami."

"The steaks here are cooked to perfection, making it a great spot for Date Spots."

"The Wagyu sushi and steak were perfectly grilled."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least a month in advance, especially for dinner.

2

Expect high prices, with steaks averaging around $100 each.

3

Private parties of 10 or more can be accommodated in multiple rooms.

09
Kaiba Japanese Ramen, Sushi & Grill - Pasadena image 1

Japanese restaurant offers upscale interior with covered patio seating and multiple TVs showing sports. Atmosphere stays chill and relaxed, with a warm, inviting vibe suited for quiet meals or late-night dates. Seating is somewhat tight but sufficient for medium crowds.

Rich, flavorful broth defines the tonkotsu ramen here, with a perfect, mild spice level. Sushi rolls stand out as fresh and well-crafted, making this spot a reliable choice for ramen and sushi lovers.

Darker decor creates a cozy atmosphere ideal for late-night dates. Ramen and sushi plates offer a shared dining experience for couples.

People are saying

"The ramen here has a rich, flavorful broth."

"You have to try the frozen beer; it's a must-try."

"The ramen and sushi plates here are delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals on beer are available.

2

Lunch deals offer great value for money.

3

Parking is limited to one hour in the back lot.

10
Yakiya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant combines upscale design with a lively, noisy atmosphere where conversation can be challenging. The space suits both intimate dates and large family gatherings, offering a warm yet polished environment. High-end features include smokeless BBQ grills and a notable selection of drinks.

Authentic Japanese cuisine shines with impeccable service and a menu that could benefit from more high-quality sashimi or sushi options instead of American Wagyu short rib.

Cozy setting creates an intimate vibe for couples. The prix fixe dinner menu offers a structured dining experience. A $90 pour of Hibiki 17 adds a special touch to the evening.

People are saying

"The fine dining here is incredible, with quality meats and seafood."

"The Japanese food here is a revelation of flavors and culinary mastery."

"The food here is amazing, with unique and memorable flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations at Yakiya are highly recommended.

2

Yakiya offers a pre-fix menu for $128 per person.

3

Expect a multi-course dining experience with a focus on Japanese cuisine.

11
SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa image 1

Minimalist interior and dim lighting create an intimate atmosphere in a small, cozy space. The vibe is casual but polished, with a welcoming and relaxed energy. Consistent pacing and a quiet courtyard offer a comfortable setting despite the compact size.

Sushi here features fresh fish and warm sushi rice that melts in your mouth. The omakase-style menu offers consistent, high-quality sushi with great value.

Perfect for date nights with a vibe that treats sushi as a lifestyle. Staff show kindness and respect to couples.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The food here always tasted so fresh."

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is so fresh and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of over an hour, especially during peak hours.

2

A mandatory 16% service fee is added to all bills.

3

Parking is available for $3 with validation in the garage behind the restaurant.

12
Chong Qing YaoMei Hotpot image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Hot pot restaurant offers authentic Chongqing street feel with vibrant atmosphere featuring Chinese music, mahjong tables, and live performances. A sauce bar provides unlimited appetizers and customizable dipping sauces. The space combines traditional decorations with a modern, lively vibe.

Chewy udon noodles pair well with lamb in a rich broth. Fresh edamame serves as a simple, crisp appetizer.

Service stands out with patient staff guiding newcomers through the hotpot experience. Large servings and options like a spicy side add to the shared meal dynamic.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is authentic, numbing, and spicy."

"The hot pot here is great for date spots, with fresh ingredients and spot-on flavors."

"The Japanese Food here, especially the lamb and udon, is phenomenal."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays at 7:30 pm, an authentic dancer performs for a few minutes.

2

They charge around $6.99 per person just to access the sauce and salad bar.

3

Parking is available next door and costs about $5.

13
HiroNori Craft Ramen image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate Japanese restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and relaxed vibe. Seating includes wooden chairs that are somewhat uncomfortable, and the space remains quiet and uncrowded during visits. The setting suits parties of 2-4 people and offers a mellow dining experience.

Ramen here features well-balanced tonkotsu broth and melting pork that stands out. Both the dipping and spicy ramen offer solid, inventive flavors with noodles that hold up well without being too salty or oily.

Vegetarian ramen stands out with plenty of green vegetables and great broth, making it a solid choice for a date meal. Tonkotsu ramen offers a rich option for those who prefer meat-based dishes.

People are saying

"I found the vegan ramen broth to be rich and delicious."

"The Japanese Food broth here is so creamy and flavorful."

"It's a great spot for Date Spots with tasty vegan ramen."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1.50 for 15 minutes at nearby lots; no parking at the restaurant.

2

A 17.68% service charge is automatically added to all bills.

3

Reservations are not accepted; the whole party must be present to be seated.

14
Mama Lu's Dumpling House image 1

Spacious restaurant blends Art Deco chandeliers with classic architectural details, creating a classy yet casual vibe. Energy runs high with a buzzing atmosphere that suits gatherings and dates, while a bar area adds an adult touch. The space accommodates both small and large parties comfortably.

Beef udon with XO sauce stands out, especially when paired with hot chili and soy sauce. Dumplings and pan-fried noodles also deliver solid flavors, alongside dishes like hot and sour soup and stir-fried seafood udon.

Atmosphere suits dates and gatherings well. It fits any date night or group meet-up.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is delicious and juicy."

"These Date Spots have the best juicy pork dumplings."

"The Japanese food, especially the dumplings and udon, was amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Parking is available around the corner in a lot that costs $1 for the first 2 hours.

3

Prices are affordable, with good portion sizes for the cost.

15
Top Restaurant image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Takeout-only spot with a mom-and-pop, homey atmosphere and fusion of Chinese, Indonesian, and Hawaiian cuisines. The place draws a steady line at the drive-thru, known for crispy, juicy fried chicken and flavorful BBQ dishes. No indoor seating is available, but parking is ample.

Chicken katsu curry stands out with rich flavor and crispy texture. Plates like BBQ chicken and spam musubi offer solid variety in classic Japanese dishes.

Food here tastes like authentic Hawaiian cuisine, making it a solid choice for couples. Multiple visits show it offers a variety of dishes worth trying together.

People are saying

"I thought the fried chicken was so crispy and flavorful."

"The food here is delicious and reminds me of Hawaii."

"The chicken katsu curry here is fantastic."

Good to know

1

Top Restaurant is takeout only with no indoor seating available.

2

Expect about 20 minutes from ordering to pickup.

3

There is ample parking available at Top Restaurant.

16
Miss Cheese Tea Cafe image 1

Large cafe space offers board games, mini pool table, and arcade games for entertainment. Atmosphere feels cozy and fun, suitable for casual hangouts or dates. Seating includes both indoor and outdoor options with a quiet vibe.

Taiyaki stands out with its hot serving and mochi chew texture in the cake. It matches quality found at Koko Roll and With Love, rivaling the soufflรฉ in taste.

Low lighting and cozy seating create a relaxed atmosphere ideal for intimate conversations. The setting suits both catching up with a friend and going on a casual date.

People are saying

"The souffle pancakes were perfectly light, fluffy, and delicious."

"The soufflรฉ pancakes are fluffy and delicious for a date spot."

"The Japanese food, especially the taiyaki, is great and served hot."

Good to know

1

The wait time for the soufflรฉ pancakes is 33-43 minutes.

2

Parking is limited to 30 minutes in nearby spaces.

3

The cafe offers free parking in the same building.

17
Panda Inn image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open space with high ceilings and a modern-traditional Chinese decor creates a classy, upscale atmosphere. A full sushi bar and sit-down drink bar add variety to dining options. The vibe balances comfort and elegance, attracting those seeking both flavor and refined ambiance.

Sushi bar offers a solid complement to the Chinese dishes with an omakase experience that stands out for its precision and care from the sushi chef. The quality at this price point makes the omakase especially notable.

Cozy booths offer privacy for couples. Signature cocktails like the Mai Tai and Passionfruit Margarita add a flavorful touch to the date experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the orange chicken."

"The Wagyu & Lobster Sushi Roll was pure bliss."

"The food here is amazing, especially the honey walnut shrimp."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, and there are no guarantees for booth seating.

2

Parking is available in a garage, and the restaurant validates parking.

3

Expect the restaurant to be busy during dinner hours.

18
Fishwives image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small, intimate seafood restaurant with nautical decor and a New England fish house feel. Bright interior and courtyard seating offer a mix of indoor and outdoor dining. Atmosphere tends to be loud and lively, with a friendly vibe.

Seafood shines with a diverse menu featuring sushi, sashimi, and a raw bar. The handrolls stand out, especially salmon and Maryland bluecrab, alongside fresh scallops and pickled vegetables.

Casual lunches work well here for couples looking for a relaxed vibe. The spot has a quiet atmosphere but the door needs frequent closing, which can interrupt the flow.

People are saying

"The seafood here is top quality, especially the crab cakes and lobster roll."

"The fried oysters at these Date Spots are so fresh and delicious."

"The Japanese Food here, especially the scallops, is delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups, due to high demand.

2

There is no parking available near the restaurant.

3

The average cost for a meal for four is around $385, excluding tip.

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