Best Japanese Restaurants in San Diego

28 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Benihana - San Diego, CA restaurant

1. Benihana - San Diego, CA

4.0

Excellent(7382)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Mission Valley

Booked 189 times today

Welcome to Benihana, a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal tables in groups, where your personal chef will perform the ancient art of Teppanyaki. Watch as we slice and dice, preparing a meal that will dazzle your eyes as well taste buds, whether you choose mouth-watering steak, tender chicken or succulent seafood. You can also enjoy sushi prepared by a talented sushi chef and indulge in a specialty cocktail.

2. El Sueño

4.0

Excellent(174)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Old Town

Booked 17 times today

El Sueño in Old Town, San Diego, offers an exceptional sushi experience that combines inventive flair with traditional techniques. Diners consistently rave about the quality and creativity of the sushi dishes, highlighting the restaurant as a standout in the area. Reviews praise the "sumptuous sushi rolls" and the vibrant ambiance, creating an inviting atmosphere for sushi enthusiasts. The fusion of sushi with Mexican culinary elements adds a unique twist, making each visit memorable. With glowing testimonials like "the food was awesome from the sushi rolls to the enchiladas," El Sueño is celebrated not only for its quality but also for its innovative approach to sushi. This makes it a must-visit destination for both sushi purists and adventurous diners alike.

3. Tako

4.2

Awesome(54)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Old Town

Booked 10 times today

Nestled in the most historic neighborhood in California, Old Town San Diego, there is plenty to see and do. We strive to provide an unforgettable experience with top notch cocktails, the freshest fish & ingredients available, and unmatched atmosphere....21+ Speakeasy, If the light is on we're Open!

A photo of Harmony Cuisine 2B1 restaurant

4. Harmony Cuisine 2B1

4.9

Exceptional(256)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Kearny Mesa

Booked 13 times today

At Harmony Cuisine 2B1 in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, the essence of Japanese cuisine comes alive, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic and exquisite Japanese flavors. Garnering OpenTable Diners' Choice awards in 2022 and 2023, the restaurant offers a blend of traditional sushi and innovative fusion dishes under the expert guidance of Chef Mickey Ninomiya. Patrons rave about the freshness and authenticity, with one noting the sushi "makes me feel like I'm living in Japan again." Special highlights include the premium A5 Miyazaki Wagyu and a creative menu that features not only classic sushi but also unique items like Wagyu Bolognaise spaghetti. The ambiance is "cozy," and the service is consistently described as welcoming and excellent, ensuring every visit is a remarkable dining experience.

5. Cannonball

4.4

Awesome(1150)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Mission Bay

Booked 34 times today

Cannonball in Mission Bay, Belmont Park, is a gem for Pacific Rim cuisine lovers, offering a stunning fusion of flavors with a breathtaking ocean view. Patrons rave about the "seriously tasty sushi" and the "refreshing craft cocktails," which elevate the dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to culinary creativity shines through in dishes like the life-changing lobster roll and the freshly made sushi rolls, providing an "amazing food" experience as noted by many guests. The atmosphere, paired with "incredible service," makes Cannonball the perfect spot to enjoy the essence of Pacific Rim cuisine while overlooking the scenic Mission Beach. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual outing, Cannonball promises an unforgettable dining adventure with every visit.

A photo of King's Fish House - Mission Valley restaurant

6. King's Fish House - Mission Valley

4.6

Exceptional(2242)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Mission Valley

Booked 12 times today

At King's Fish House in Mission Valley, San Diego, sushi enthusiasts can delight in an unparalleled dining experience. Known for its exceptional seafood offerings, the restaurant's sushi stands out with its freshness and authenticity. The menu, which changes daily, ensures a unique sushi adventure with each visit, promising the most seasonal and top-quality ingredients. Patrons rave about the sushi's excellence, with one customer exclaiming, "Great food and service, we had the wedge salad, some sushi rolls, oysters and clam chowder. Everything was really good." Another highlights the overall quality, noting, "Excellent food as always... Great sushi, sides and Caesar salads." King's Fish House's commitment to service and quality makes it a must-visit for sushi lovers in the heart of San Diego.

7. Botanica

4.6

Exceptional(28)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • North Park

Booked 5 times today

Botanica in North Park, San Diego, is celebrated for its exceptionally crafted cocktails and delightful Tapas / Small Plates, making it a must-visit spot for an elevated dining experience. Patrons rave about the "creative and delicious" small bites that perfectly complement their innovative drinks. A standout feature is their Omakase, which offers a sampler of chef's choice bites, ideal for sharing and tasting a variety of what the kitchen has to offer. The ambiance of Botanica, described as a "sexy artsy speakeasy," adds to the allure, creating a perfect backdrop for enjoying high-quality, beautifully presented Tapas. With enthusiastic reviews about the "friendly and attentive" service and the unique, artistic decor, Botanica has secured its place as a top destination for Tapas lovers in San Diego.

8. Rakiraki Convoy

4.7

Exceptional(11)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Kearny Mesa

Booked 5 times today

Dive into the heart of San Diego's Asian culinary scene at Rakiraki Convoy, located in the bustling Kearny Mesa neighborhood. Renowned for its authentic and innovative approach to Japanese cuisine, Rakiraki stands out with its exceptional ramen dishes, crafted by the visionary Chef Junya Watanabe. Patrons rave about the quality and authenticity, with one diner proclaiming it the "best ramen I've ever had!" From the rich, flavorful broths to the perfectly cooked noodles, every bowl promises a delightful experience. Don't miss their signature dishes like the charcoal-fired yakitori and specialty sushi rolls, complemented by an impressive selection of local craft beers and sake. Whether it's the A5 Wagyu edamame or the award-winning kimchi ramen, Rakiraki Convoy delivers an unforgettable dining experience that keeps guests returning for more.

9. PB Sushi

4.7

Exceptional(5)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Pacific Beach

Booked 1 time today

Located in the heart of Pacific Beach and right in the middle of all the action PB Sushi is a great place to stop by before heading out for a night on the town! Great food and great people served at a great place. You won't be disappointed! Be seeing you soon.

10. Cloak + Petal

4.6

Exceptional(964)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Little Italy

Booked 41 times today

At Cloak + Petal, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy in San Diego, sushi isn't just food; it's an art form. This stylish restaurant offers a unique twist on traditional sushi, creating a dining experience that's both authentic and innovative. The ambiance, reminiscent of an abandoned Tokyo subway, enhances each meal, making it unforgettable. Guests rave about the sushi's freshness and quality, with one diner exclaiming, "the sushi was great and the special rolls were mind blowing." The restaurant's commitment to quality and atmosphere has made it a must-visit spot in San Diego, ensuring that each visit is not only a meal but a memorable event.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

S
Sharon
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
My family and I had reservations at 6:30pm the day before Christmas Eve. It was crowded and they were running behind. The hostess (Tiffany) was calm, professional and helpful even though many customers were asking her questions constantly. She was even bussing tables. We had another table of relatives (celebrating my birthday) and she was able to get us near each other. Which she didn't have to do. Once we were seated, our chef Chris was outstanding. He was funny, entertaining and the food was outstanding. Our wait staff was also wonderful but I've forgotten their names. My family and I will definitely return to Benihana's.
More info
Benihana - San Diego, CAPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Mission Valley
•
4
J
Josh
San Diego •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Excellent food and service, it was just quite noisy!
More info
TakoPrice: Expensive• Sushi• Old Town
•
4.2
N
nobueVIP
San Diego •43 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Despite being significantly delayed due to car trouble, I was relieved to find that our seats were still secured. It had been a while since my last visit, and although the chef had changed, the quality of the sushi ingredients was excellent and delicious. I will definitely come again.
More info
Harmony Cuisine 2B1Price: Very Expensive• Japanese• Kearny Mesa
•
4.9
T
Tania sofia
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
Loved the place very beautiful. As well for the food even tho it cost a lot for a small portion of the appetizer it was super good do not regret for how much I paid. :)) I would like to thank my server she was super polite.
More info
El SueñoPrice: Moderate• Mexican• Old Town
•
4
J
Jake
San Diego •6 reviews
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Live music on Thursday was a nice surprise. Missed the vegetable roll but the spicy edamame is awesome.
More info
CannonballPrice: Moderate• Sushi• Mission Bay
•
4.4

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28 restaurants available nearby

1. Benihana - San Diego, CA

2. El Sueño

3. Tako

4. Harmony Cuisine 2B1

5. Cannonball

6. King's Fish House - Mission Valley

7. Botanica

8. Rakiraki Convoy

9. PB Sushi

10. Cloak + Petal

See what locals rave about

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