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Local picks in San Jose

Japanese food for dates

You want a Japanese meal that sets the right tone for a date without feeling like a forced production.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Sushi restaurant

Small space with Japanese minimalist zen-like decor featuring bonsai trees and bamboo accents creates an airy, elegant atmosphere. Loud environment with sound bouncing around makes it feel more like a club-adjacent scene than a quiet dining spot. Unique ceramic dishes and colorful tableware add a tasteful, intentional design touch.

Edomae style sushi omakase features chutoro, otoro, and A5 wagyu nigiris served affordably for under $150. Sitting at the sushi bar offers a personal, authentic experience with high-quality selections.

Perfect for date night with a vibe that impresses partners. Drinks like the matcha strawberry sake and martini stand out and go down smoothly.

People are saying

"The nigiri here is amazingly fresh with perfect garnishes."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and surprisingly affordable."

"Sitting at the sushi bar for omakase is the perfect choice."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

The Omakase Bar costs $108 per person, excluding drinks.

3

A la carte options are available for add-ons after the main dishes.

02
Milk Belly Bakery image 1

Rustic red-brick walls and banana-leaf wallpaper create a cozy, inviting space with wooden tables and a separate coffee bar. The atmosphere is chill and warm, with a peaceful courtyard nearby. Staff prepare food visibly, adding to the welcoming vibe.

Vietnamese coffee mochi offers a flavorful, balanced sweetness and a satisfying texture. The ube buttery mochi and pandan mochi cake stand out for their rich taste and moderate sweetness.

Warm shokupan bread sets a cozy tone. The avocado toast and egg salad sandwich offer simple, tasty options for a casual date.

People are saying

"The Japanese Egg Salad Sandwich here is one of the world's best."

"The Japanese milk bread and mochi bars were so good!"

"The sandwiches and drinks here are insanely delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines on weekends, often over an hour wait.

2

Preordering is recommended to avoid sold-out items.

3

Parking can be tricky; metered spots are a block away.

03
Trifecta image 1
Restaurant

Small venue with upscale artistic decor and a relaxed date-night vibe. Friendly, casual atmosphere enhanced by a DJ playing hits quietly enough for conversation. Offers innovative fusion sushi and thoughtful sake pairings that complement the meal.

Creative and upscale sushi offers a twist on traditional dishes with high quality and variety. Sushi classes and vegetarian options add to the artistic experience.

A relaxed, date-night vibe sets the mood with a nice atmosphere. Hokkaido scallops stand out as a favorite dish, and the sushi offers stunning vegetarian options for picky eaters.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so creative and fresh, it melts in your mouth."

"The staff here makes you feel like family on your date."

"The Japanese food here is fresh, with flavors perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially on busy nights.

2

Live DJ performances happen every Thursday night, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

3

The corkage fee for bringing your own sake is $25.

04
Sushi Day image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot with cozy seating and a cafeteria-style interior offers a quiet, unpretentious vibe. Mostly a takeout place with limited tables, it attracts those seeking fresh, affordable sushi without fuss.

Sushi features fresh raw cuts, baked, and crispy fried rolls with generous quantity and no over-ricing. Ingredients stay fresh, presentation looks beautiful, and flavors balance well for a satisfying meal.

Sushi stands out as a fresh and authentic choice that impresses, especially for those familiar with Japanese Hawaiian flavors. The menu offers well-crafted dishes that suit a relaxed, enjoyable date.

People are saying

"The sushi here is delicious, fresh, and surprisingly good."

"I thought the sushi here was delicious and fresh."

"The sushi here is exceptional and affordable."

Good to know

1

Sushi Day is mainly a pick-up place with a small, hole-in-the-wall setup.

2

Sushi Day is located inside of an Indian pizza joint and liquor store.

3

The prices at Sushi Day are more affordable compared to other sushi places.

05
Ramen Takumi image 1
Ramen restaurant

Simple, clean Japanese design creates a cozy, authentic setting with a spacious dining area. The atmosphere stays quiet and comfortable, even with loud music nearby. Friendly, welcoming environment complements phenomenal ramen and fresh dishes.

Ramen here features complex flavors and a signature spicy garlic tonkotsu that stands out. The menu offers a variety of ramen choices and a karaage rice bowl for quick, tasty meals.

A super chill and cozy vibe makes it easy to relax on a date. The menu features Signature Takumi Shrimp Tempura and Signature Spicy Toripaitan ramen, offering flavorful options to share.

People are saying

"The ramen broth and pork belly here are so tasty."

"The ramen broth and pork belly were so tasty."

"The ramen broths here are rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced."

Good to know

1

They offer 50% off all ramen for two more days.

2

Parking is limited and can be hard to find.

3

The portion size is good, with plenty of noodles.

06
Sushi Town image 1
Sushi restaurant

Spacious interior combines minimalist Japanese style with tasteful dรฉcor and soft lighting to create a cozy, relaxed vibe. The atmosphere stays quiet and inviting, suitable for casual dinners or quick bites. Friendly chatter and clean surroundings add to the welcoming feel.

Sushi dishes come with fresh flavors and beautiful presentation. The menu features chicken teriyaki, tempura roll, shrimp crunch roll, and rainbow roll at spectacular prices.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fresh and exceptionally good."

"The dinner spots here have huge portions and are shockingly good."

"The food here is wonderfully presented and delicious."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials include discounts on certain rolls.

2

Parking can be tight, especially during peak hours.

3

Prices are very affordable, making it a great value for sushi.

07
Show de Carnes Brazilian Steakhouse image 1

Brazilian steakhouse offers an elegant, lively atmosphere with well-spaced tables and a fresh, flavorful salad bar. The charcoal-grilled meats stand out, especially the picanha salted to perfection and thinly sliced. Strong, generous caipirinhas complement the fine dining experience.

Fresh options stand out with a variety of sushi and seafood at the salad bar. It includes fresh fruits and soup alongside quality sushi rolls.

Celebrations like anniversaries happen here with a wonderful experience. Couples find it fitting for special moments.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and of really good quality."

"This Brazilian steakhouse has an excellent selection of meats."

"The sushi at the salad bar was really good quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner service.

2

The restaurant offers a Premium Lunch option priced at $59.95.

3

A Classic dining option is available for $49.95.

08
Shabu Time image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Shabu-shabu restaurant offers a cozy space with a bustling, energetic vibe and loud music that can make conversation difficult. The spot often feels crowded with big parties, and visitors should expect wait times and parking challenges. The experience centers on cooking finely sliced meats and flavorful broths at the table, creating an interactive meal.

Sukiyaki stands out with its super flavorful broth and fast service. Spicy tonkatsu and spicy miso bring phenomenal heat, while udon noodles offer a great texture. Cilantro Ponzu sauce adds fantastic depth to the dishes.

Open late until 10pm, this spot suits couples with tight schedules. The menu features Kobe beef and spicy miso, making it a solid choice for a relaxed date night or hanging out with friends.

People are saying

"The Kobe Beef here is delicious and the service is attentive."

"The Japanese food here, especially the meats and broths, is fantastic."

"The food here is delicious, making it a great spot for dates."

Good to know

1

There was a wait because Shabu Time is a popular spot.

2

Parking can be hard to find, but there are options nearby.

3

Calling ahead to the waitlist is highly recommended to avoid long waits.

09
Agua Salada (Contemporary Mexican Seafood) image 1

Outdoor setting shaded by tents creates a casual atmosphere reminiscent of Mexican beachside spots. Live Banda and corridos music energizes the space alongside a top-tier bar serving drinks like Micheladas and margaritas. Beautiful decor and a small, intimate layout enhance the authentic vibe.

Sushi here blends Japanese and Mexican flavors in a fusion roll with about 12 to 13 pieces per order. The De Cielo, Mar Y Tierra jap/mex sushi roll stands out alongside Mexican seafood dishes.

Shrimp tacos stand out with their crispy texture and unique preparation that adds a special touch to the meal.

People are saying

"The seafood here is delicious, especially the shrimp tacos."

"The Japanese food here is fresh and flavorful."

"The shrimp dishes here are tasty and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash-only, which was not communicated prior to ordering.

2

There is ample parking available, including shaded options.

3

Portions are generous and larger than expected for seafood.

10
Mariscos Costa Alegre image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor dining under a large tent creates a Mexico-by-the-sea vibe with vibrant colors and festive decor. Live mariachi music fills the space, often loud enough to dominate conversations. The atmosphere buzzes with energetic, lively spirit centered on authentic Mexican seafood.

Fusion of Mexican cuisine with Japanese sushi creates a unique flavor experience. Dishes like mixed molcajete, pastor sushi, and costero sushi offer delicious and filling options.

Offers a romantic atmosphere with options like flowers, photos, and serenades at tables. Guests can get a framed souvenir photo for an extra fee to remember the night.

People are saying

"The seafood here is delicious and incredibly flavorful."

"The Mexican sushi here is amazing and full of flavor."

"The food here is delicious and authentically Mexican."

Good to know

1

Arrive before noon on sunny days to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect over 30 minutes wait to be seated on weekends.

3

Parking can be difficult to find in the area.

11
Minato Japanese Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy space with old-school charm and family-run vibe creates a calm, welcoming atmosphere. Seating is limited and booths show wear, but the place feels nostalgic and friendly. Regulars appreciate the busy, cluttered yet comfortable setting.

Lunch bento with spicy chosen chicken stands out as a unique and consistent choice since 1996. Sashimi is very good, and sushi rolls like spicy tuna and California are fresh and flavorful with perfect rice balance.

Minato roll with extra lemon stands out as a shared favorite. Combos like Sashimi and NY steaks or tempura and NY steaks offer variety that suits different tastes on a date.

People are saying

"This Japanese food offers a comforting taste of home-style cooking."

"I loved the dinner box; it was a great deal."

"The sashimi here is fresh and tasty for a date spot."

Good to know

1

Parking is tough, but there is easy and plentiful street parking available.

2

Many lunch sets are priced between $14 and $17, which is affordable.

3

Expect almost no wait time during lunch hours.

12
Olioli Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small Hawaiian restaurant with cozy indoor seating and old school island posters creates a bright, clean, and inviting atmosphere. Music matches the Hawaiian vibe, and the space feels spartan but well-kept. Customers come late into the night, drawn by affordable prices and generous portions.

Chicken katsu stands out with its perfect breading and juicy, non-greasy texture. The katsu sauce resembles L&L's and pairs well with musubis.

Musubi stands out as a shared favorite, eaten quickly before any sides. Both kalua pork and chicken katsu receive praise for their flavors, making the food a highlight for couples.

People are saying

"The BBQ chicken and kalua pork were delicious and generously portioned."

"The chicken katsu here is fantastic, truly the best."

"The food here is great, especially the garlic shrimp."

Good to know

1

Olioli Hawaiian BBQ is a takeout place with no tables, only a couple of chairs outside.

2

You can order at your table or at the front counter, but there's a service fee for table orders.

3

Expect large portion sizes, about 1.5 times larger than typical BBQ places.

13
Maza Mexican Restaurant image 1
Seafood restaurant

Entrance through an alley leads to a beautiful outdoor garden with covered seating and heaters. Atmosphere feels relaxing and aesthetic with music enhancing the vibe. Space welcomes dogs and suits parties well.

Mexican style sushi stands out with options like Sushi Divorciado and Sinaloa-style sushi. Seafood dishes such as aguachiles and ceviche complement the sushi offerings.

Perfect date night vibes set the mood before a night out. The menu features ceviche and oysters that stand out for sharing.

People are saying

"The seafood here is super fresh and flavorful."

"I thought the Mexican-style sushi was surprisingly good."

"The servers here are so friendly, it makes for a great date spot."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 2 PM and offers discounted drinks.

2

Taco Tuesday features $1 tacos all day with any drink purchase.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to find a spot.

14
MiMi's Kitchen image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Small Asian fusion restaurant offers a cozy, modern vibe with stylish dรฉcor and comfortable seating. Atmosphere stays quiet and inviting, fitting for casual meals or intimate evenings. Menu features varied dishes like hot pot, sushi, and sizzling rice bowls with generous portions.

Seared salmon pressed sushi stands out with its unique flavor. Shrimp tempura combines crispy texture, sweet cucumber, and rich umami. Takoyaki and gyoza offer crunchy bites with tasty sauces. Sizzling rice pork belly and salmon teriyaki feature crisp burnt rice and bold flavors.

Cozy ambiance suits casual meals and date nights well. Familiarity with the menu adds ease to returning visits.

People are saying

"The gyoza here are so crispy and tender, I ordered another round."

"The chicken udon soup's broth was great."

"It's a fantastic choice for tasty food and reasonable prices."

Good to know

1

The menu offers a variety of sushi, hot pot, and sizzling rice bowls.

2

Portion sizes are large, making it a good value for the price.

3

Parking is available in the lot, but can be difficult to find during busy hours.

15
Kumako Ramen image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small, intimate space with an open galley kitchen creates a cozy, rustic vibe. Atmosphere feels warm and chill despite occasional crowd noise and a noticeable TV. Busy weekends bring a lively energy to this compact ramen bar.

Rich, flavorful broth and perfectly cooked noodles define the ramen here, paired with fresh, high-quality toppings. The menu also features katsu curry rice bowl and seafood like calamari and octopus, all served in an intimate setting with attentive service.

Friendly owner answers questions with ease, creating a welcoming vibe. Many choose this spot for its great atmosphere and casual setting, making it a solid choice for a date night.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is so creamy and rich."

"The ramen here has a rich, creamy broth and top-quality noodles."

"The ramen here is amazing, perfect for a date spot."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult to find at Kumako Ramen.

2

Parking is paid unless it's Sunday.

3

The restaurant is small and cannot accommodate groups larger than four unless it's a slow day.

16
Gombei image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, simple space with cozy, homestyle ambiance and outdated decor creates an authentic Japanese feel. Atmosphere stays quiet and casual, often crowded inside with additional outdoor seating. Food serves as comfort Japanese cuisine with generous portions at reasonable prices.

Basic Japanese cuisine includes crispy gyoza, enormous portions of udon, and fresh sashimi. Teriyaki chicken with shrimp and tonkatsu curry stand out as flavorful options.

Tables outside offer a relaxed setting for couples. Seafood platter and teriyaki chicken with shrimp are popular choices enjoyed together.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is quick, affordable, and delicious."

"The Japanese food here is excellent and authentic."

"The food here is comforting and delicious, perfect for Date Spots."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to avoid long waits.

2

Expect a 20-minute wait starting at 12:45pm on weekends.

3

Credit cards are accepted, making payment convenient.

17
Omee J. 2 image 1
Poke bar

Modern, spacious interior with soft lighting and neutral tones creates a clean, casual atmosphere. Seating includes outdoor shaded areas, supporting a relaxed dining experience. Wide variety of fresh poke bowls with large portions and unique toppings define the food offering.

Poke bowls feature super fresh salmon and tuna with options to customize heavily. The spicy poke bowl stands out as a popular protein choice.

This spot suits couples well, with multiple visits by partners noted. Shared meals include raw protein options, enjoyed without issues, making it a reliable choice for a casual date.

People are saying

"The spicy salmon and tuna were on point."

"The Japanese food here is amazing, fresh, and delicious."

"The portions at these Date Spots are humongous."

Good to know

1

The restaurant uses a chipotle-style ordering system for customization.

2

A large bowl costs around $25 after tax, which is on the pricier side.

3

Portions are generous, often allowing for two meals from one bowl.

18
Mariscos Costa Alegre - Alum Rock image 1

Open space with live Mariachi music and multiple large screens creates an upbeat, lively atmosphere filled with loud Ranchero-style music and karaoke. The setting blends a sports bar vibe with an authentic Mexican feel, making it energetic and vibrant rather than quiet or intimate.

Sushi stands out with al pastor and surf and turf rolls offering unique flavors. Other dishes include shrimp tacos, 7 mares soup, and broths, all noted for being delicious and family-friendly.

Mixed molcajete and micheladas with shrimp stand out as popular choices for celebrations. Convenient location next to a partner's house adds to the appeal for date nights.

People are saying

"The seafood here is excellent and the service is attentive."

"The Japanese Food here is amazing; the staff is so kind and attentive."

"It's so loud here, you can barely hear yourself think."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Saturday night, creating a lively atmosphere.

2

Special food deals are available every weekday, including half-off micheladas on Mondays and Fridays.

3

Parking spaces are limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

19
Mariscos Playa Azul and Mexican Grill image 1

Mexican restaurant offers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere with live karaoke and live bands on weekends. The space suits both date nights and gatherings with friends, featuring a cool setup for watching football games. The vibe balances fun energy with a welcoming environment for all ages.

Sushi stands out with options like alambre sushi and rolls topped with spicy sauce. Dishes such as aguachile verde and shrimp tacos add variety alongside classic seafood soups.

Atmosphere suits date night with a mix of good food and attentive service. It works well for dinner or meetings too.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, truly perfect."

"The sushi here is delicious, especially with carne asada."

"The molcajete and margaritas at these Date Spots are amazing."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every night, creating a lively atmosphere.

2

The restaurant does not have a license to serve alcohol.

3

They offer a limited menu with basic tacos and no seafood.

20
Ariake image 1
Sushi restaurant

Walls covered with hundreds of customer photos create a family-like atmosphere that feels inviting and lively. Multiple big screen TVs show football and basketball, adding a sports vibe to the upbeat and relaxed setting. Staff often sing for birthdays, making it a popular spot for celebrations.

Sushi here is affordable and includes options like the paisa sushi and sushi rolls. Bento boxes come with miso soup and salad, and dishes like chicken teriyaki are tender and moist while tempura stays crisp.

Quiet atmosphere during weekday lunch makes it easy to focus on the food. Options include hand rolls like cooked salmon and salmon skin, plus dishes like mango crunch and Chicken Yakitori.

People are saying

"I've considered this my favorite sushi place for over 20 years."

"I loved their delicious Japanese Food and sushi rolls."

"The food here is so tasty, especially the soft-shell crab roll."

Good to know

1

The restaurant celebrates birthdays with music, clapping, and a free piece of cake.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere if celebrating a birthday or special event.

3

The wait time is usually only a few minutes.

21
Okayama Sushi #1 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant features a belt-driven sushi bar and quirky decor with comic and superhero-themed figurines. Atmosphere is cozy and vibrant, suitable for family meals or date nights. Space is compact with many tables packed closely together.

Sushi comes fresh and excellent with thick, fresh sashimi cuts. Bento boxes offer good value and variety, while the spicy pork ramen features thick, tender pork.

Relaxing atmosphere suits sushi dates well. It works for both spontaneous nights and casual meals after the gym.

People are saying

"The bento boxes here are well-made and satisfying."

"This sushi spot is perfect for a relaxing date night."

"It's great because there's free parking available in the back lot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has free parking available in the back lot.

2

Lunch specials are offered until 4 PM, with prices ranging from $16.99 to $19.99.

3

Expect a wait during busy hours, especially on weekends.

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