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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in San Diego

Japanese food

Made for those who find their culinary rhythm in the precision and variety of Japanese cooking.

Based on 788 Opinions
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01
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Cozy spot with a laid-back Hawaiian vibe and fresh, high-quality sushi. Enjoy exceptional fresh fish in dishes like the Godzilla bowl, crafted by a trained sushi chef. Casual, neat space with a welcoming patio and sophisticated music.

Fresh fish quality stands out with sushi and poke that many find exceptional. The menu includes items like the Godzilla bowl and tempura roll, prepared by a formally trained sushi chef.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be the freshest I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The menu features a variety of poke bowls and sushi options.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during peak hours.

02
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Spacious interior with cherry blossom decor sets a jazzy, relaxed mood. Sushi offers fresh, sushi-grade fish with standout dishes like the Fire Fire roll and Yellowtail Belly Sashimi. Covered patio seating adds a quiet, engaging dining option.

Sushi features fresh, sushi-grade fish with excellent value. The Fire Fire roll combines salmon, shrimp tempura, crab, avocado, spicy mayo, and eel sauce for a crunchy, flavorful bite. Yellowtail Belly Sashimi offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture and tastes great even without soy sauce.

People are saying

"The sushi rolls here are so delicious and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Draft beer is half off during happy hour, with edamame for $3 and dumplings for $4.

3

Reservations for Omakase are required 24 hours in advance, costing $120 per person.

03
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Small sushi bar offers an intimate omakase with master chefs serving fresh sashimi and nigiri. Atmosphere feels authentic and transportational, evoking Japan. Outdoor patio welcomes well-behaved dogs, adding a relaxed vibe.

Omakase experience stands out with master sushi chefs serving fresh sashimi and nigiri that taste exceptional. The setting feels intimate, making the meal feel special and focused on quality.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the omakase, is amazing and a highlight."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dining.

2

Ichifuji Sushi has outdoor seating where pets are allowed.

3

There is a small parking lot on site.

04
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Intimate space with modern design and pop music creates a chill vibe. Sushi offers amazing quality and reasonable prices, with popular lunch specials and friendly staff. A TV near sushi chefs adds a casual touch for relaxed dining.

Sushi here stands out for its amazing quality and reasonable prices. The lunch special bento box and the energy roll are popular choices, supported by fantastic staff and consistent service.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weeknights with great deals.

2

The sushi is reasonably priced with excellent daily specials.

3

Dine-in and to-go options are available for convenience.

05
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Small sushi spot offers fresh nigiri with a unique kick from house-made wasabi. Intimate vibe with subtle Japanese decor creates a quiet atmosphere. Open front lets in fresh air, making the space feel comfortable and unpretentious.

Sushi here features fresh and flavorful nigiri with a focus on high quality. The house-made kizami wasabi adds a unique kick, and the Waygu nigiri stands out as a highlight.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, due to limited seating.

2

Omakase is available Monday through Thursday with 24 hours advance reservations.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can be limited during peak hours.

06
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Ghost kitchen offers all vegan sushi with incredible flavor and beautiful presentation. Orders come from lockers, ensuring freshness. Open late, perfect for high-quality plant-based sushi after hours.

Offers all vegan sushi with incredible flavor and beautiful presentation. Packaging keeps sushi fresh, and hours run late for convenience.

People are saying

"This Japanese food is the best vegan sushi I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Gorilla Eats Sushi is a ghost kitchen offering takeout only.

2

Advance ordering is recommended to avoid wait times.

3

Parking can be challenging near the location.

07
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Small sushi spot offers fresh fish and seared tuna roll with high quality at good prices. Cozy lighting and open chefs create an intimate vibe perfect for casual dates. Indoor seating beats outdoor views of the parking lot.

Sushi here features fresh fish and incredible rolls like the seared tuna roll. Sashimi tastes fresh and the quality of sushi is consistently high and affordable.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are suggested because the restaurant gets busy quickly and has limited tables.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours; consider visiting during off hours for less crowd.

3

Parking is limited in front; street parking is available but can be challenging.

08
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Enjoy fresh nigiri and creative omakase in a lively setting with fireplaces and outdoor tents. Watch chefs craft sushi at the bar while soaking in a minimalist yet casual vibe. Perfect for those who love authentic Japanese food and a fun atmosphere.

Sushi here features fresh, expertly prepared nigiri and omakase offerings that stand out for their quality. The menu consistently delivers some of the best sushi and sashimi in the area.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.

2

The restaurant does not accept walk-ins, so plan ahead.

3

Expect to spend around $63 per person, excluding alcohol.

09
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Small space with natural wood decor offers a cozy, intimate vibe. Sushi bar and tables provide private dining. Omakase features exceptional fish quality and includes unique dishes like lobster miso soup and family recipe panna cotta.

Sashimi and sushi feature exceptional fish quality and beautiful presentation. The omakase offers a plentiful variety including lobster miso soup and family recipe panna cotta, with onigiri and fresh broth warming the meal.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food omakase here is an amazing experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Expect to pay between $120 and $125 for the omakase experience.

3

The restaurant serves only seafood at dinner, with no meat options.

10
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Sushi shines with fresh ingredients and true fresh wasabi, matching Michelin star quality. Interior boasts Japanese murals and a chic layout that feels warm despite some loud music. Service is friendly, making it a top spot for Japanese food lovers.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and quality, rivaling Michelin star standards. True fresh wasabi is available, and the overall experience combines great food with wonderful service.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Parking is limited; allow extra time to find street parking.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

11
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Enjoy all-you-can-eat wagyu in a modern, Instagrammable setting with a calm vibe. Premium Japanese dishes like bluefin hand roll and sukiyaki broth highlight fresh, quality ingredients. Efficient service keeps wait times low for a smooth dining experience.

Premium AYCE options include wagyu bone marrow, bluefin hand roll with uni, and wagyu tartare. Sukiyaki broth highlights the beef, letting it shine without distraction, while sushi features fresh fish and standout nigiri.

People are saying

"The Japanese Wagyu here is the best, melting like butter."

Good to know

1

The place is open until 10 pm.

2

You can order three items at a time with refills every eight minutes.

3

They offer all-you-can-eat wagyu hot pot with three tiers of pricing.

12
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Elegant dining room offers relaxed atmosphere with plenty of seating and TVs showing sports. Sushi features freshest fish and skilled chefs, while gyoza impresses with light dough and generous filling. Perfect for romantic outings or client dinners.

Freshest fish and high-quality nigiri stand out here. The sushi chef shows professional skill and kindness. Gyoza has a light dough and generous filling. Chirashi bowl and sashimi are also top-notch.

People are saying

"I thought the Japanese food here was simply the best."

Good to know

1

Each roll costs between $25 and $30.

2

There is often a line, especially on weekends, with some arriving an hour early.

3

The restaurant maintains a very clean environment, including the bathrooms.

13
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Small, intimate spot with upscale sushi and a weekly changing menu keeps flavors fresh and exciting. Lively yet cozy vibe suits romantic evenings and special occasions. Bar seating offers a chef's show and sake pairings for a full experience.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and unique selection not commonly found elsewhere. The Nigiri sampler and A5 beef nigiri offer distinct flavors, with options for those avoiding raw fish.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is outstanding, especially the fresh sushi and creative rolls."

Good to know

1

Reservations for the omakase should be made two weeks in advance.

2

The tasting menu is available on Sundays with only 11 seats per session.

3

Sessions for the tasting menu start at 5 pm and 7:30 pm.

14
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Intimate setting with dramatic marble wall offers a calm, luxe vibe. Chefs prepare world-class kaiseki and omakase dishes featuring fresh fish and wagyu. Guests enjoy a matcha tea ceremony and watch culinary artistry at the counter.

Omakase here offers an unparalleled dining experience with chefs preparing dishes right at the counter. Each sushi piece shows freshness of ingredients and culinary artistry that stands out in Southern California.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is unforgettable, with melt-in-your-mouth flavors."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least one month in advance due to limited seating.

2

The cost is over $250 per person, including tip.

3

Parking can be difficult in the downtown area.

15
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Enjoy an 8-course Omakase with diverse dishes like yakitori and imported beef. The cozy, quiet space feels like a Tokyo neighborhood home. Pair meals with fantastic sake and Japanese IPA for a true taste of Japan.

Omakase offers an 8-course kaiseki-ryori dinner with more than just sushi, including soups, yakitori, and imported beef. Nigiri like salmon, chutoro, and amaebi stand out alongside beautifully prepared steaks and desserts.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is an omakase experience beyond just sushi."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the 8-course Omakase dinner experience.

2

The menu allows for any Nigiri to be made into a maki roll upon request.

3

Prices are fair for high-end sushi, often less than similar restaurants.

16
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Small space fills with charcoal smoke and lively noise, creating a high-energy vibe. Authentic Japanese home-style yakitori features chicken thigh and pork belly skewers. Outdoor tables with propane heaters offer cozy spots for casual gatherings.

Authentic Japanese home-style yakitori shines here with classic flavors. Skewers like chicken thigh, pork belly, scallop, and shitake mushroom stand out alongside fresh sushi appetizers.

People are saying

"The yakitori here is fantastic and smoky."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, especially since the restaurant is very small.

2

Making same-day reservations is difficult; call a few days in advance.

3

Walking in might not get you a seat; you may end up sitting outside.

17
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Cozy spot with warm atmosphere and natural light offers authentic Japanese dishes. Ramen shines with spicy broth while crispy takoyaki and pan-seared gyoza add tasty variety. Quiet and chill vibe makes it perfect for relaxed dining.

Ramen stands out with its wonderfully spicy and flavorful broth and consistent quality. Crispy takoyaki, perfectly pan-seared gyoza, and crispy fried katsu add variety to the authentic Japanese menu.

People are saying

"The ramen here is traditional and very tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure accommodation.

2

Parking is limited to 20 minutes in front, but servers allow longer stays.

3

Expect reasonable wait times during dinner rush hours.

18
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Sushi restaurant shines with fresh fish and a spacious sushi bar. Enjoy fatty tuna sashimi and seafood udon in a family-friendly setting. Outdoor patio and lively sports on TVs add variety to the atmosphere.

Sushi here features fatty tuna sashimi served with great care and freshness. The menu includes Seafood Udon and offers a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with friendly service.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM with 30% off food.

2

During happy hour, there are no discounts on beers.

3

Parking can be challenging due to a busy garage.

19
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Small space with bright, clean interior and relaxing music creates a cozy, inviting vibe. Tonkotsu broth ramen and spicy miso offer rich Japanese flavors. Chicken and pork katsu curry provide balanced, rich taste that complements the warm atmosphere.

Ramen here features tonkotsu broth with well-prepared pork and a spicy miso option. Japanese curry dishes like chicken katsu curry and pork katsu curry offer rich, balanced flavors that stand out.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

They had specials for the opening, including $10 tonkotsu ramen.

2

During happy hour, Monsta Ramen Curry offered $3 beers.

3

The restaurant offers the option to order with the server or scan a QR code to order online for a discounted price on certain items.

20
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Cozy space with wood style design feels intimate but gets crowded fast. Tonkotsu ramen shines with rich broth and perfect noodles, while shoyu ramen offers a balanced savory taste. Limited, uncomfortable seating adds to the packed yet popular vibe.

Tonkotsu ramen stands out with rich, flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles. The shoyu ramen offers a balanced, savory taste with fresh ingredients and great service.

People are saying

"I thought this Japanese food was the best ramen I had in California."

Good to know

1

The place fills up quickly, and they do not take reservations.

2

Expect wait times of over an hour on Friday evenings.

3

Parking can be inconvenient due to nearby construction.

21
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Cozy dining room with tasteful music sets a pleasant mood. Fresh sushi with huge portions and reasonable prices draws regulars. Lunch bento boxes offer variety and good value, making it a local favorite for authentic Japanese food.

Fresh sushi with huge portions and reasonable prices stands out here. Lunch bento boxes include California rolls, fried gyoza, veggie tempura, miso soup, and salad, offering good value and variety.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, fresh, and has unique flavors."

Good to know

1

Lunch bento offers good value and is satisfying.

2

Weekly specials make Edamami an affordable choice.

3

Seating fills up quickly on Fridays and Saturdays.

22
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Small Japanese spot shines with fresh sushi and reasonable prices. Cozy vibe with string lights makes it perfect for families. Steady crowd enjoys tasty rolls in a relaxed setting.

Sushi stands out with freshness and flavor in every dish, especially the rolls. Prices stay very reasonable, and the quality matches the quantity well.

People are saying

"The sushi here is outstanding and incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

Prices are very reasonable compared to other sushi places in the area.

3

Keep an eye out for daily specials to save money.

23
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Small sushi spot offers an intimate vibe with cozy lighting and a central sushi bar. Fresh, high-quality fish shines in the omakase dinner, featuring orange toro and truffle hamachi. A notable sake selection rounds out the elevated casual experience.

Sushi here features fresh, high-quality fish that melts in your mouth. The omakase dinner offers a variety of delicious nigiri, including specialties like orange toro and truffle hamachi.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here has incredibly fresh, melt-in-your-mouth fish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the busy location with a parking lot that fills up quickly.

2

The restaurant has limited table seating but plenty of counter seating available.

3

Parking can be challenging due to multiple restaurants in the plaza.

24
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Japanese restaurant offers a calm atmosphere with chill playlist and beautiful decor. Sushi features fresh fish and elegant presentation, including yuzu ponzu yellowtail and Toro sashimi. Generous ramen portions make it great for casual dining or dates.

Sushi features fresh fish and beautiful presentation with options like rolls without rice and handrolls. The menu includes yuzu ponzu yellowtail sashimi, Toro sashimi, and a well-priced Omakase box.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Thursday until 4:30 pm.

2

The lunch special offers great value for diners.

3

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

25
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Small, cozy sushi spot offers exceptional freshness in every bite. Intimate setting with authentic Tokyo vibes creates a warm, inviting space. Soft music adds to the serene, chill energy, perfect for quiet meals or dates.

Sushi here stands out for its exceptional freshness and great value. The menu includes grilled salmon teriyaki, shrimp tempura, spicy tuna hand rolls, rice bowls, matcha tiramisu, and spicy ramen.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazingly fresh and well-priced."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 PM with discounted prices on select items.

2

The restaurant can only accommodate about 25 customers at a time.

3

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and popularity.

26
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Small omakase bar offers wildly fresh sushi with seasonal cuts like scallops and bigeye tuna. Laid-back vibe blends 90's rap music with traditional edomae style. Thoughtful sake and beer pairings complete the intimate dining experience.

Sushi here features wildly fresh, high-quality cuts that let the fish speak for itself. The omakase offers a curated, thoughtful experience with seasonal sashimi like scallops, bigeye tuna, and Spanish toro, all served in a relaxed yet refined ambiance.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food omakase experience here is amazing and fun."

Good to know

1

They have only 2 seatings per night at 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM.

2

Reservations are necessary due to limited seating availability.

3

The omakase experience lasts about three hours.

27
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Small space with intimate dining and booth seating creates a cozy vibe. Sushi shines with freshness and unique dishes like spicy tuna rolls. Low club music and vintage anime add an underground speakeasy feel, making it a hip spot for quality Japanese food.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and high quality. The menu includes unique selections like spicy tuna rolls and curry croquettes, all prepared with care by skilled sushi chefs.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, it melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

They offer a wonderful later happy hour from 7:30 to 9 pm, Monday to Thursday.

2

Reservations are recommended for weekend dinner to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant enforces a strict 2-hour table limit due to its small size.

28
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Small, intimate space blends classic Japanese style with rustic wood decor. Sushi bar offers exceptional quality sushi and wide selection. Outdoor dining and tranquil atmosphere create a perfect spot for relaxation and special occasions.

Sushi stands out with its exceptional quality and wide selection. Miso soup ranks among the best ever tasted.

People are saying

"The sushi here is outstanding, especially the blue fin tuna."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

Curbside pick-up and online ordering are available for convenience.

3

Seating is not wheelchair accessible for parties less than four.

29
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Cozy sushi spot offers a peaceful atmosphere with authentic Japanese family care. Fresh sushi and ramen shine, especially the chirashi bowl and flavorful miso soup. Warm, quiet space suits diners seeking high-quality ingredients and a genuine experience.

Freshness stands out in the sushi and ramen, with the chirashi bowl noted as exceptional. Bento boxes come in well-sized, varied portions, and the miso soup adds a flavorful touch.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are advisable as the restaurant fills up quickly after 6:15 PM.

2

Expect prices around $15-20 per roll, which is typical for sushi.

3

The lunch specials offer high quality at reasonable prices.

30
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Japanese supermarket shines with fresh sushi and authentic snacks. Neatly organized aisles make shopping easy despite scarce parking. Quality produce and bento boxes offer variety for quick meals.

Fresh sushi and sashimi come in high quality and affordable options. Bento boxes and pre-packaged sushi offer variety, alongside a wide selection of Japanese snacks and ramen essentials.

People are saying

"I found lots of good Japanese food, especially the bentos and fresh items."

Good to know

1

Parking can be scarce during busy hours.

2

Get there before 11:30 for the best selection of products.

3

Expect limited sushi and bento options after 6pm.

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