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Best Japanese Restaurants in Berkeley

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24 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya restaurant
4.4
Awesome(21)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Berkeley
Booked 6 times today
Dive into the heart of Berkeley at Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya, a gem that's not just a restaurant but a celebration of seafood. This Michelin-recommended haven is praised for its "super fresh" seafood dishes like the fried oysters and miso cod, which one diner raved is "like the fishermen bring the fish directly off the boats." With accolades from the San Francisco Chronicle and Eater SF, it's no surprise that guests are consistently impressed, describing their dining experience as one filled with "excellent service" and "perfectly prepared" meals. Whether you're sampling the sashimi or indulging in the sous vide egg, Fish & Bird delivers an authentic Japanese culinary adventure with every dish artistically presented and bursting with flavors. A visit here is a must for seafood lovers seeking an exceptional meal in a cozy yet sophisticated setting.
A photo of Hana Japan Steak & Seafood - Berkeley restaurant
4.3
Awesome(408)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Berkeley
Booked 16 times today
Hana Japan Steak & Seafood in Berkeley is a gem of Hibachi cuisine, renowned for its delightful blend of entertainment and culinary excellence. Since 1979, this establishment has captivated locals and visitors alike with its teppanyaki-style grill mastery. Diners rave about the "delicious food and great atmosphere," with special mentions of the Hibachi Salmon and New York Steak. The chefs not only cook but perform, making each meal a memorable event. Guests consistently praise the engaging chefs for their "great personality" and "entertaining show," ensuring a unique dining experience every time. Whether it's a birthday or a casual dinner, Hana Japan guarantees an exceptional Hibachi experience, complete with a scenic view of the bay.
A photo of Akemi Berkeley restaurant
4.4
Awesome(476)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Berkeley
Booked 6 times today
Opened in February 2015, AKEMI is the latest incarnation of miyuki on 1695 Solano Avenue in North Berkeley (Albany border) in the San Francisco Bay Area.Along with a revamped interior and exterior that includes salvaged wood and upgraded kitchen equipment, AKEMI features an updated menu spotlighting fresh ingredients and well-crafted flavors while retaining customer classics such as our sushi rolls. AKEMI is the new name we bestow upon the beauty that is good food with good people in a good place.For outdoor reservations please call the restaurant.
A photo of Yoshi's Oakland restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(8242)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Oakland
Booked 69 times today
Yoshi's has served Japan's best traditional dishes to Bay Area patrons since 1972. The menu highlights artfully arranged sushi, fresh grilled seafood, classic Japanese dishes, and vegetarian fare. Patrons can kick off their shoes in the traditional Japanese tatami seating or dine at tables. Expert sushi chefs create sushi and sashimi to order either in the restaurant or in the jazz house. Start the evening in the cocktail lounge before dinner or have a nightcap after taking in a show in the jazz house.
A photo of Ozumo - San Francisco restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(3397)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 29 times today
At Ozumo in San Francisco's vibrant Financial District / Embarcadero area, sushi lovers find an exceptional haven for authentic Japanese cuisine. Established in 2001, Ozumo has been setting the standard with its fusion of sushi and robata cooking. Under the expert guidance of Chef Yukinori Yamamoto, Ozumo offers an unforgettable dining experience. Reviewers rave about the sushi's unmatched quality, with one noting it as "the best sushi we have ever tasted!" Another highlights the "fatty tuna nigiri" for its "remarkable freshness and deliciousness." Ozumo's commitment to quality is further emphasized by its curated selection of top-tier sake, ensuring each bite is complemented perfectly. For those seeking the pinnacle of sushi excellence, Ozumo is a must-visit destination in San Francisco.
A photo of Roka Akor - San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2244)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 39 times today
Roka Akor is a premier steakhouse serving the finest steak, seafood, and sushi. Renowned for our exquisite Japanese Wagyu and Certified Kobe Beef, we are part of an elite group of fewer than 40 restaurants in the U.S. — and 1 of only a few in San Francisco — licensed to serve this coveted delicacy. All of our meats and vegetables are expertly grilled to perfection over an Open Flame Charcoal Robata Grill. Elevate your dining experience with our award-winning wine list, premium sake, craft cocktails, and an extensive selection of fine whiskey.
A photo of Pabu Izakaya San Francisco restaurant
4.4
Awesome(1378)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 17 times today
Nestled in the bustling Financial District of San Francisco, Pabu Izakaya is a gem for aficionados of authentic Izakaya cuisine. Founded by the acclaimed Chefs Michael Mina and the late Ken Tominaga, and now helmed by Chef Keita Tominaga, Pabu delights diners with a modern twist on traditional Izakaya-style dining. The restaurant is renowned for its "world-class sashimi, sushi, and grilled meats from the robata," with seafood flown in daily from Japan's prestigious Toyosu Market and a "signature selection of A5 Japanese Wagyu" that is simply unmatched. Customers rave about their experiences, describing the sushi and sashimi as "some of the best we’ve ever had in SF" and praising the "phenomenal" pear bourbon drink. With its vibrant ambiance and impeccable service, Pabu Izakaya San Francisco offers a dining experience that is both "impressive" and "consistently enjoyable," making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.
A photo of Noka Ramen restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(153)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Oakland
Booked 9 times today
Noka Ramen in Oakland is a treasure trove of authentic Japanese Ramen that captures both the palate and the heart. Specializing in “Hakata” Tonkotsu style, the restaurant offers a rich and creamy pork broth paired with homemade artisan noodles that are smooth, firm, and bouncy – a true testament to their dedication to quality and authenticity. Customers rave about the "amazingly good ramen" and the "super high quality soup," which together provide a golden dining experience. The ambiance is equally praised, creating a playful and inviting atmosphere. Whether it's the spicy miso or the black garlic tonkatsu, every bowl is a delightful adventure. As one enthusiast puts it, Noka Ramen is "definitely one of the best ramen spots in Oakland," where the food is not only delicious but also served with exceptional warmth and speed.
A photo of Nisei restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(70)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Russian Hill
Booked 4 times today
Nestled in the charming Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, Nisei exemplifies the pinnacle of Contemporary Asian cuisine, merging Japanese flavor intricacies and Northern California's freshest ingredients. Chef David Yoshimura, a Michelin-starred talent, crafts a menu that is both a personal and cultural narrative, deeply rooted in his Japanese American heritage. Reviews rave about the "exceptional culinary skill" and "artfully layered flavors" that make each dish a masterpiece. Guests consistently commend the "world class service" and the intimate interactions with Chef Yoshimura, who often explains his dishes personally, adding a unique touch to the dining experience. The thoughtful combination of ambiance, meticulous service, and innovative cuisine at Nisei makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking an exceptional Contemporary Asian dining experience.
A photo of AKIKOS restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1607)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 9 times today
Experience the pinnacle of sushi craftsmanship at Akikos in SOMA, San Francisco, where the traditional omakase experience is transformed with a modern flair. Sourced directly from Tokyo's prestigious Toyosu Fish Market, the fish at Akikos is of unmatched freshness and quality. Diners rave about the "absolutely decadent" signature dishes like the shokupan with toro and golden Kaluga caviar, and the aged, soy-cured bluefin tuna nigiri. At Akikos, every dish is a testament to the meticulous care and creativity that defines their sushi, making each bite a luxurious indulgence. Patrons consistently laud their experiences, noting that it is "by far the best set menu Japanese restaurant I have ever been to in the U.S." and celebrating the "phenomenal" omakase that makes Akikos a must-visit destination for sushi connoisseurs.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Autumn
    Columbus •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Amazing! Sitting at the chef’s table is a must! All the workers were friendly, amazing, and very personable! Food was spectacular! A definite SF must!
    More info
    Niku SteakhousePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• SOMA
    4.8
  • Ginger
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    A large busy open dining experience before a show is a great way to start the evening. Staff is very friendly & helpful. The menu is sparse but the fish/sushi is fresh but expensive. But you can have a quick bite instead of an entire meal. After dining you line up to find your seat. I like the smaller venue, not a bad seat in the theater, as opposed to thousands of people. I recommend Yoshi’s for a fun night out in Oakland. Take the ferry, drive and park in the huge parking garage next door to Yoshi’s. The Average White Band brought back many memories and continued rocking out the crowd with their soulful band.
    More info
    Yoshi's OaklandPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Oakland
    4.7
  • Robert
    California Central Coast •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    One of my favorite Hibachi restaurants. Very affordable. Atmosphere is great, and food is great!
    More info
    Hana Japan Steak & Seafood - BerkeleyPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Berkeley
    4.3
  • Denise
    San Francisco Bay Area •7 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    We live Fush & Bird! In all of the East Bay it is probably the most authentic Japanese food that one can find. The sashimi is very fresh. The temporary light and the tofu is phenomenal. I always look forward to returning to this wonderful restaurant!
    More info
    Fish & Bird Sousaku IzakayaPrice: Expensive• Izakaya• Berkeley
    4.4
  • Antonella
    San Francisco Bay Area •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Aug 24, 2024
    Great food and service! Glad to have Akemi in the neighborhood!
    More info
    Akemi BerkeleyPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Berkeley
    4.4

Discover best Japanese restaurants in Berkeley

Discover the essence of Japanese cuisine right in the heart of Berkeley, where a diverse array of Japanese restaurants offers an authentic and varied dining experience. From traditional Izakaya-style pubs to innovative Teppanyaki grills, each establishment showcases a blend of traditional Japanese techniques with local flavors, ensuring a unique and delightful culinary journey. These restaurants not only prioritize freshness and quality, sourcing ingredients both locally and from Japan, but also cater to a range of dietary preferences including gluten-free and vegan options. The dining scene in Berkeley is vibrant and dynamic, reflecting the city's deep appreciation for culinary diversity and innovation. Patrons can expect top-notch service and an atmosphere that ranges from the casual to the sophisticated, making each dining experience memorable. Whether you are a sushi enthusiast or a lover of grilled delicacies, Berkeley's Japanese restaurants promise an enriching and satisfying meal that highlights the best of Japanese gastronomy. This culinary hotspot is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike, looking to explore rich flavors and high-quality dining.

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