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The 15 Best Japanese Restaurants in San Diego

By Lauren Nehorai By Lauren Nehorai | April 22, 2022 | Food & Drink

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Matsu’s uni with mustards and nasturtium dashi PHOTO BY LEO CABAL

These are the best Japanese restaurants in San Diego you need to try.

1. Cloak & Petal

Dine under flowering cherry blossoms at Cloak & Petal while munching on authentic sushi and Japanese small bites paired with sake and cocktails. cloakandpetal.com

2. Hidden Fish

This omakase-styled sushi destination sources seafood from around the world and presents carefully and creatively executed dishes to guests either a la carte or through an 18-piece premium experience. hiddenfishsushi.com

3. Himitsu

This intimate Japanese bistro translating to “secret” takes inspiration from Ginza’s sushi bars and the Californian lifestyle to present a menu of traditional sushi, nigiri, Japanese tapas and select sake. himitsusd.com

4. Izakaya Masa

Izakaya Masa serves authentic Japanese delicacies from rolls to ramen, and offers nightly specials like spicy jelly fish and yellowtail cheek. izakayamasa.com

5. Kaito Sushi

This casual Encinitas spot boasts a seafood display and multi-course omakase meal made by Tokoyo-trained chefs that includes slices of snapper seasoned with shiso leaves and miso-marinated ono. kaitorestaurant.net

6. Kokoro Restaurant

Kokoro balances traditional Japanese cuisine and omakase dinners with modern favorites like spicy tuna crispy rice and lunchboxes that are all made of natural ingredients. kokoro-restaurant.net

7. Matsu

This 48-seat fine dining restaurant highlights the traditions and techniques of Japanese food, giving guests an extensive tasting menu with products straight from Japan. eatatmatsu.com

8. Menya Ultra

Menya Ultra is known for its signature ramen made from homemade sweet wheat noodles and umami flavored tonkotsu paitan soup. menya-ultra.com

9. Soichi Sushi

Transport to Japan at this authentic omakase joint where all aspects of the experience from the texture, temperature and taste of the fish to the hospitality are reflective of Japanese culture. soichisushi.com

10. Shiku Sushi

Located in the heart of La Jolla, Shiku Sushi offers the freshest fish, specialty rolls and a selection of wine and beer to match. shiku.love

11. Sushi Kuchi

For a half-priced menu all the time, Sushi Kuchi is a trendy yet family-friendly spot that celebrates birthdays unlike anywhere else. carlsbad.sushikuchi.com

12. Sushi Ota

This hidden gem tucked away in Carlsbad serves fresh nigiri and toro that melts in your mouth. 858.880.8778

13. Sushi Tadokoro

Attention to detail is commonplace at Sushi Tadokoro, a Michelin-rated restaurant with an omakase offer that includes elements from all over the world. sushitadokoro.com

14. Yakitori Hino

Don't underestimate this low-key Kearny Mesa spot, which foodies flock to for yakitori and izakaya dishes. 858.880.6048

15. Yoshino Japanese Restaurant

This casual, local spot offers fresh and quality food in the form of appetizers, sushi, sashimi and combination plates. yoshinosrestaurant.com



Tags: dining

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