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Best Japanese Restaurants in San Mateo

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12 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Mateo, CA | Downtown (Central Park) restaurant
1. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Mateo, CA | Downtown (Central Park)
4.7
Exceptional(747)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • San Mateo
Booked 48 times today
Gyu-Kaku in San Mateo, CA, offers an unparalleled Japanese BBQ experience that's both delicious and interactive. Celebrated as the world's #1 Japanese BBQ brand, this establishment allows diners to become chefs at their own table-top grills. Patrons rave about the "high quality meat, well seasoned", and the fun of grilling their favorites like the must-try Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib. A visit here isn't just about the food; it's a full culinary event, highlighted by enthusiastic reviews such as "absolutely great" and "highly recommended". This spot isn't just a meal; it's an adventure in dining that brings people together over flame-grilled delights and "frosty cold beers". Whether for a family outing, a date night, or a group gathering, Gyu-Kaku promises an unforgettable BBQ experience right in the heart of San Mateo.
A photo of Izakaya Ginji restaurant
2. Izakaya Ginji
4.7
Exceptional(235)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • San Mateo
Booked 21 times today
Izakaya Ginji in downtown San Mateo offers an authentic Japanese dining experience that truly stands out. Specializing in Yakitori and tapas-style dishes, this gastropub uses genuine binchotan charcoal for grilling, "which makes the flavors pop better than other Izakayas," according to a devoted diner. Patrons rave about the quality and consistency of the food, with one noting, "Love this place! The quality of the food has always been consistent every time we visited Ginji!" Another guest celebrated the variety and authenticity, stating, "We love going here as it really feels like a little slice of Japan!" From the rare Sake selection to the unique Beers and variety of Shochu, every aspect of Izakaya Ginji is designed to provide a slice of Japanese culture right in the heart of San Mateo.
A photo of Benihana - Burlingame, CA restaurant
3. Benihana - Burlingame, CA
4.4
Awesome(4986)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Burlingame
Booked 81 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.
A photo of Mokutanya Yakitori Charcoal restaurant
4. Mokutanya Yakitori Charcoal
4.8
Exceptional(889)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Burlingame
Booked 15 times today
Mokutanya Yakitori Charcoal in Burlingame offers an unparalleled Japanese dining experience, specializing in authentic charcoal-grilled skewers. Patrons rave about the "absolute heaven" of the salt and pepper Wagyu skewers and the "bursting flavors" of meticulously prepared ramen. The unique sunken Japanese tables and private glass-divided rooms create an "amazing atmosphere" that enhances each visit, making it not just a meal but a cultural immersion. Recognized as the "best Japanese spot within a 100 mile radius," Mokutanya provides an exceptional blend of local ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and meticulous service, ensuring a memorable dining experience that keeps guests returning.
A photo of 808 Zone restaurant
5. 808 Zone
4.8
Exceptional(13)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Foster City
Booked 5 times today
At 808 Zone in Foster City, diners are treated to a unique blend of Asian cuisine that transcends the traditional omakase experience. This restaurant brilliantly fuses kaiseki and omakase with Western elements, creating "unexpected flavor combinations" that will captivate your palate. The dedication to quality and innovation shines through in dishes like the "BEST ikura" ever had in the States, as one glowing review highlights. Every month, the menu evolves, introducing new delights that showcase the freshest ingredients and creative flair of Chef Robert and his team. The intimate setting and thoughtful service add to the allure, making 808 Zone a must-visit for those seeking a distinctive culinary journey in the Bay Area.
A photo of Sapporo Rock-N-Roll Sushi Restaurant restaurant
6. Sapporo Rock-N-Roll Sushi Restaurant
4.2
Awesome(49)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • San Mateo
Booked 6 times today
Sapporo Rock-N-Roll Sushi in San Mateo is a culinary hotspot for those seeking outstanding Asian cuisine, particularly authentic and fresh sushi. With glowing reviews noting the freshness of their offerings, one diner raved, "Best sushi I've had in the Bay Area." The restaurant is celebrated for its unique "Secret Box," featuring daily limited servings of the finest ingredients, reflecting the true spirit and diversity of Asian culinary art. Guests consistently applaud the "electric" atmosphere and the interactive experience with chefs at the sushi bar, making every visit memorable. The consistent mention of "fresh and delicious" food, combined with an energetic setting, ensures an authentic and enjoyable dining adventure at Sapporo Rock-N-Roll Sushi.
A photo of Sushi Shin - Redwood City restaurant
7. Sushi Shin - Redwood City
5.0
Exceptional(28)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Redwood City
Booked 1 time today
Sushi Shin in Redwood City offers an exemplary Omakase experience that truly stands out in the Bay Area. With a Michelin star to its name, the restaurant is renowned for its authentic Edomae-style sushi, meticulously crafted by Chef Jason Zhan. The intimate setting, with only 9 seats, ensures a personalized dining experience where each dish is a testament to the chef's dedication and the freshness of the ingredients, mostly sourced from Tokyo's prestigious fish markets. Guests rave about the "exceptional" quality and the "unique dishes" such as the sea water urchin and raw baby eel, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to both traditional and innovative sushi preparations. The thoughtful orchestration of over 20 courses, paired with an extensive sake list, makes each visit to Sushi Shin a memorable culinary journey, praised as "the best sushi restaurant around" by satisfied diners.
A photo of Gintei restaurant
8. Gintei
4.6
Exceptional(502)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • San Bruno
Booked 9 times today
At Gintei in San Bruno, the allure of authentic Japanese sushi is vividly brought to life. Renowned for its fresh fish sourced directly from Tokyo's Tsukiji market, Gintei offers an unparalleled sushi experience. Patrons rave about the "amazing food, service, and romantic/quiet ambiance," with one noting it's the "best I've had south of S.F." The expertly crafted omakase is a standout, inviting diners to "trust the chef" for a sublime tasting journey. Additionally, their extensive sake selection perfectly complements the sushi, enhancing the dining experience. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or a newcomer, Gintei's combination of top-notch ingredients, elegant ambiance, and attentive service promises a memorable culinary adventure.
A photo of RANZAN restaurant
9. RANZAN
4.8
Exceptional(63)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Redwood City
Our mission is to provide authentic Japanese food and exceptional “Omotenashi” services for people who love Japanese traditions, culture and food.​The name came from 嵐山 "Arashiyama" which also can be read as Ranzan. Arashiyama is a location in Kyoto, Japan where the Ranzan restaurant concept came from. ​At Ranzan, the menu will change every month according to the seasons in Japan.
A photo of Ichika Izakaya restaurant
10. Ichika Izakaya
4.7
Exceptional(15)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • San Bruno
Booked 11 times today
Ichika Izakaya in San Bruno is a must-visit for anyone craving authentic Japanese Izakaya cuisine. With its vibrant, upbeat atmosphere and a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, diners consistently praise its offerings. Many reviewers highlight the "authentic Japanese food" and "excellent service" that make each visit memorable. Standout dishes like the "Uni toro bites" and "chicken heart skewer" receive special mentions for their flawless execution and delightful flavors. The omakase experience at Ichika is particularly recommended, allowing guests to enjoy the chef's selections directly at the bar, enhancing the authenticity and overall dining experience. Whether you're near the airport or local to San Bruno, Ichika Izakaya promises a culinary journey worth taking.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Jaime
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    This place is fantastic! The meat selection is exceptional, and the portions are generous. We thoroughly enjoyed our first visit and will definitely be back!
    More info
    Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Mateo, CA | Downtown (Central Park)Price: Expensive• Japanese• San Mateo
    •
    4.7
  • Fabian
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Best time ever!!! Had our Thanksgiving dinner here. No problem getting our reservation, valet parking crew very Professional . Our group was ready and we were seated asap. Our Chef Andres was Amazing! The whole Team Outstanding! We Highly Recommend this establishment for your next dinning experience. Thank you for a wonderful time!
    More info
    Benihana - Burlingame, CAPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Burlingame
    •
    4.4
  • michellevip
    San Francisco Bay Area •11 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 19, 2024
    Fun and delicious! Love the no shoe/floor seating, glass partitions which give you and your party a private feel, but most of all the charcoal yakitori. Favs for us are the pork belly, corn, wagyu beef, and the bacon wrapped mochi. Staff was attentive and delightful. Open until 2am so perfect for those late night munchies.
    More info
    Mokutanya Yakitori CharcoalPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Burlingame
    •
    4.8
  • Marc
    San Francisco Bay Area •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 10, 2024
    Consistently great experience in both food and service!
    More info
    Izakaya GinjiPrice: Expensive• Japanese• San Mateo
    •
    4.7
  • Noravip
    Los Angeles •10 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Oct 26, 2024
    SO MUCH FUN! Not only is the food delicious and the menu is unique, the staff is incredibly friendly and warm, the service they provide is phenomenal, the music is great, and it has such a great vibe! I brought friends from out of town here and they had the best time! It’s a full experience from your taste buds to every interaction you have while there. I will absolutely be back and I highly recommend it! Thank you so much to Will for the delicious food, and to Ling Ling, Anna and Emma for the fantastic service!
    More info
    Sapporo Rock-N-Roll Sushi RestaurantPrice: Moderate• Japanese• San Mateo
    •
    4.2

Discover best Japanese restaurants in San Mateo

Discover a slice of Japan in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, Peninsula, San Mateo with our curated selection of Japanese restaurants. Each dining spot offers a unique take on traditional Japanese cuisine, ranging from yakiniku BBQ to the delicate art of sushi and vibrant izakaya-style dining. These establishments are celebrated for their commitment to authenticity, using fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques that promise a truly Japanese dining experience. The dining scene in San Mateo is diverse and vibrant, with Japanese cuisine holding a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Patrons consistently praise the high-quality food, inviting atmospheres, and exceptional service, making each visit a memorable one. Whether you're looking for a lively group meal or a quiet spot to enjoy refined flavors, San Mateo's Japanese restaurants cater to a variety of dining preferences and occasions. Enhance your culinary journey by exploring these top-rated Japanese eateries in San Mateo, where tradition meets contemporary flair in a welcoming setting. Each restaurant strives to offer a satisfying experience, ensuring that guests leave with plans to return. Explore the rich flavors and cultural delights of Japan right here in the Bay Area.

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