Atly Logo
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 776 Opinions
+773
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Makai Sushi image 1
Makai Sushi image 2
Makai Sushi image 3
View all
Japanese restaurant

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."

"The owner Matthew makes you feel right at home during lunch."

"It's super chill with an authentic Hawaiian vibe."

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
Ichifuji Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

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."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's unbelievable."

"You can chat with the chefs while they prepare your delicious dishes at the bar."

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.

03
Cui-Daorรฉ image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy spot in an industry park offers authentic sushi with fresh salmon belly nigiri and creative rolls like the Gojira. Casual yet refined vibe suits dates or casual outings. Prices stay reasonable with good portions, making it a great choice for Japanese food lovers.

Fresh fish shines in the salmon belly nigiri, which has a buttery texture. Specialty rolls like the Gojira combine creaminess and crunch with eel and crispy onion. Sushi here stays authentic and flavorful with reasonable prices.

People are saying

"The specialty rolls here are unique and crafted with care."

"It felt so warm, inviting, and cozy inside."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available nearby.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours.

3

Special rolls cost around $20, while other rolls are more affordable.

04
Sushi Fish Attack image 1
Sushi restaurant

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

"I found the sushi here to be top-quality and amazing."

"The seafood here is so fresh and high quality."

"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.

05
Jump Tokyo Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

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."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's like you're tasting the ocean."

"The tonkotsu ramen is rich, comforting, and full of flavor."

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.

06
Gorilla Eats Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

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."

"The vegetarian sushi here is artful, creative, and tastes amazing."

"The nigiri here is amazing, truly the best 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
Steamy Piggy Point Loma image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian spot buzzes with vibey atmosphere and photo-worthy corners. Tonkotsu ramen shines with creamy broth and tender noodles. Cocktails like lychee mix well with soft dumplings and chicken rolls, all set to loud music and sports on TVs.

Tonkotsu ramen features a creamy broth with tender noodles and perfectly cooked eggs. Spicy ramen offers a rich umami flavor with garlic notes and tender pork, balanced with a moderate heat level.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and the portions huge."

"The servers here are so friendly and quick with recommendations for the Bao Buns."

"The Japanese Food here is great, thanks to the friendly and attentive service."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 8pm with $1 wings and late night deals.

2

The $1 wings are a popular choice during happy hour.

3

Parking is easier at this location compared to others in the area.

08
Ken Sushi Workshop image 1
Japanese restaurant

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."

"The seafood here is pristine and melts in your mouth."

"I loved the high quality sushi and creative dining experience."

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
Kokoro Restaurant image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

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."

"It felt like I was back in Japan, truly authentic."

"I wish I could have this broth on tap all the time."

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
moment sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi shines with fresh quality and a balanced omakase. Cozy seating and candlelit tables create a lively, welcoming vibe. Outdoor patio is dog friendly with heaters and tents for comfort.

Sushi quality stays consistently fresh and delicious with every visit. The omakase offers a well balanced and carefully presented selection that stands out.

People are saying

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

"The service at these dinner spots is phenomenal and attentive."

"It's a cozy place with inviting ambiance and chic decor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

Expect to pay around $60 for a lunch for two.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly on the patio.

11
Edamami image 1
Japanese restaurant

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."

"The lunch bento is a good value and satisfying."

"This local spot has amazing fried chicken and great sushi."

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.

12
Kaki Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

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."

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

"The food here is awesome for Date Spots."

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.

13
DASHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

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."

"You have to try the matcha flan; it's the best dessert I've ever had."

"The dinner spots here are beautiful, delicious, and 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.

14
Sushi MARU image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small omakase sushi bar offers intimate counter seating and a zen garden vibe for a calm, refined atmosphere. Chefs serve technically perfect Edomae sushi with unique fish selections. Experience feels authentic and thoughtfully curated beyond just food.

Omakase here offers technical perfection and thoughtful curation with fish pieces that differ from typical spots. The experience blends authentic Edomae sushi with a focus on creating a perfect moment beyond just the food.

People are saying

"This Omakase is a masterclass in sensory precision."

"The seafood here is a masterclass in sensory precision."

"The Japanese food here highlights the freshness of ingredients with masterful simplicity."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand and limited seating.

2

The meal costs approximately $270 per person, including tax and tips.

3

Sushi MARU does not offer an all-you-can-eat option; dishes are high quality and priced accordingly.

15
TAKARAMONO SUSHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

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."

"The nigiri here has an ideal rice-to-fish ratio."

"The Affogato here is the best I've ever had."

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.

16
Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House image 1
Self service restaurant

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 Wagyu here melts like butter, it's the best."

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and a great value."

"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.

17
Haole Shack image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Walk-up window near the beach offers sea view and a cozy atmosphere with local music. Teriyaki bowls and poke bowl shine as fresh, filling Japanese food options. Busy late at night, it's a rare spot for late-night eats.

Teriyaki bowls stand out with options like chicken, steak, and tri-tip, all tasting fresh and filling. The poke bowl also offers a great choice alongside other items like burgers and loaded fries.

People are saying

"These burgers are the best smash burgers I've ever had."

"I found the teriyaki bowls to be delicious and amazing."

"The teriyaki bowls here are delicious and amazing."

Good to know

1

Haole Shack is a walk-up establishment located near the Pacific Beach lifeguard station.

2

Haole Shack only has outside seating with limited shade.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during nighttime as it's a popular late-night food spot.

18
KOMATSUYA japanese cuisine & sushi image 1

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

"I experienced thoughtful Omakase that went beyond just sushi."

"The wine here is unforgettable, truly the best I've ever tasted."

"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.

19
Yakitori Taisho image 1
Yakitori restaurant

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 food here is amazing and seasoned to perfection."

"I thought the yakitori here was fantastic and top notch."

"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.

20
JJ Sushi & Pho image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese spot serves rich broth pho and fresh sushi with huge portions. Prices stay low, making it a favorite for takeout. Clean, chill vibe keeps guests coming back for flavorful dishes and great value.

Sushi comes in huge portions with fresh, delicious quality. The menu offers great prices and a notable sushi platter #2.

People are saying

"The pho broth here is amazing, truly the best I've had."

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

"The teriyaki chicken here is so moist and tender."

Good to know

1

The prices at JJ Sushi & Pho are reasonable and portions are large.

2

The restaurant is family friendly and offers a wide selection of Asian dishes.

3

It is a quick 5-minute drive from the border.

21
Monsta Ramen Curry image 1
Asian restaurant

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."

"The pork cutlet curry rice was delicious, with a savory and sweet gravy."

"The lunch specials here are a great deal for the quality."

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.

22
Surfside Fish House image 1

Casual spot with fresh seafood shines in both Japanese dishes and fish tacos. Bright decor and a San Diego mural set a chill vibe. Outdoor patio and bar add to the lively, sometimes noisy, atmosphere.

Generous portions of fresh, marinaded salmon stand out in the poke bowls. The menu features solid fish tacos, poke nachos, and good cuts of fish for plates, all highlighting the quality of the fish.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the happy hour with $2 tacos and $6 wine."

"The fish and chips here are crispy and very good."

"The poke bowls here are huge and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 to 6 pm with $2 fish tacos and $1.5 oysters.

2

Expect generous portion sizes for the price, especially the kids' shrimp basket.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes at very reasonable prices.

23
Genki Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

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

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

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

"The owners make you feel like a million bucks on your date."

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.

24
Chef JUN - Point Loma image 1
Sushi restaurant

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."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh, melting in your mouth."

"Parking available was not an issue, it was easy to find a spot."

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.

25
Ju-ichi image 1
Japanese restaurant

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."

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

"You can watch the chefs work their magic from the bar seating."

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.

26
Kinme Omakase image 1
Japanese restaurant

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."

"This omakase is my favorite, deeply satisfying and effortlessly elevated."

"This intimate dining experience felt like a work of art."

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.

27
Isshido Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen bar offers a chill atmosphere with friendly staff and a cozy space. Thick, savory broth and richly flavored ramen shine here, including vegan and vegetarian options. Meals travel well, making it great for takeout and quiet dining.

Thick, savory broth stands out with rich, deep flavor. Ramen features thick noodles and options like steak ramen and seaweed salad. Meals travel well for takeout.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying."

"The vegan spicy tan tan ramen is flavorful and delicious."

"The Japanese food here has a rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying broth."

Good to know

1

They have vegan and vegetarian ramen options.

2

The kids' meal was a great deal.

3

Happy hour offers a good deal on appetizers.

28
L&L Hawaiian Barbecue image 1

Bright, clean space with fresh-smelling deck and nice outdoor seating offers a chill vibe with music. Chicken katsu shines with delectable crunch and generous portions. Fresh katsu curry and spam masubi keep the menu satisfying and popular.

Chicken katsu stands out with its delectable crunch and proper frying. Plates offer a generous katsu to rice ratio, and dishes like katsu curry and spam masubi are fresh and satisfying.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always on point."

"The outdoor seating here is really nice, especially when the weather is good."

"The chicken katsu here is so crispy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Bring cash as card payments incur an extra $5 fee.

2

The parking lot is small and can get full quickly.

3

Expect generous portion sizes for a reasonable price.

29
Mizukiyama Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

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."

"I found the happy hour prices to be a great value."

"The service here is so friendly and quick, perfect for Date Spots."

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.

Discover more

San Diego, California

Area guide
Loading Map...