Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Diego

Best Japanese Restaurants in Encinitas

Price
Regions
Neighborhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

11 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(9227)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Cardiff By The Sea
Booked 121 times today
Pacific Coast Grill - Cardiff is a steak lover's paradise with its exceptional steak offerings that promise to tantalize your taste buds. "Food never disappoints," rave patrons, with glowing reviews highlighting the perfectly prepared steaks that leave diners coming back for more. Situated in the picturesque Cardiff By The Sea, the restaurant provides not only delectable cuisine but also stunning ocean views, making it the ideal spot for a memorable dining experience. The ambiance and attentive service complement the culinary excellence, ensuring every visit is a delight. Come for the steak, stay for the view, and enjoy an unforgettable meal.
A photo of Benihana - Carlsbad, CA restaurant
3.8
Excellent(3798)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Carlsbad
Booked 71 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 King's Fish House - Carlsbad restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(4036)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Carlsbad
Booked 75 times today
King's Fish House in Carlsbad offers a quintessential American seafood experience that has been delighting diners since 2003. Nestled near the Carlsbad Premium Outlets and LEGOLAND, this restaurant prides itself on serving "excellent seafood with many options," as one reviewer noted enthusiastically. With a commitment to quality and freshness, the menu boasts a variety of dishes, from perfectly cooked trout to the best clam chowder around. Patrons rave about the "great service" and "wonderful atmosphere," making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. Experience the essence of American seafood dining at its finest at King's Fish House.
A photo of Fish Boon restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(50)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Carlsbad
Booked 43 times today
Fish Boon, nestled in the scenic hills of Carlsbad, offers an extraordinary seafood dining experience that wows every guest. With a dedication to “freshness, quality, and flavor,” this seafood haven is celebrated for its meticulously crafted sushi dishes, where each bite tells a unique story. Customers rave about the “incredibly fresh” fish and the generous portions that make each meal a delight. The surf and turf rolls and tuna tostadas are often highlighted as standout stars, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a local or visiting, Fish Boon promises a “freshest of fresh” seafood journey that is not to be missed.
A photo of Shimbashi Izakaya restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(982)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Del Mar
Booked 25 times today
Nestled in the heart of Del Mar, Shimbashi Izakaya offers an authentic Japanese dining experience that transports diners straight to the vibrant streets of Japan. Known for its seasonal menu that pairs beautifully with sake, Shimbashi Izakaya delights with offerings that are both "fresh and tasty," and "not terribly Americanized," ensuring a genuine taste of Japan. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident in its exquisite sushi, which patrons describe as "better than regular Sushi Restaurants in Japan." With its attentive service and a cozy ambiance providing stunning ocean views, Shimbashi Izakaya is truly a hidden gem of San Diego.
A photo of Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1392)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Oceanside
Booked 36 times today
Wrench and Rodent Seabasstropub is an Oceanside gem for Seafood lovers, offering an unparalleled dining experience that celebrates the freshness and creativity of marine cuisine. Guests rave about its "amazing food and presentation," with standout dishes like the "seared albacore sashimi" and "dry aged Bluefin Tuna" that blend incredible flavors with artistic flair. Chef Davin Waite's commitment to local, responsibly sourced fish ensures that every bite is as fresh as it is inventive. The omakase is a particular highlight, providing a "wonderfully unique experience" with non-traditional fish selections, making it a must-visit for those seeking a truly authentic Seafood adventure.
A photo of Glass Box Asian Coastal Inspired Kitchen + Bar restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(247)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Carmel Valley
Booked 15 times today
Glass Box Asian Coastal Inspired Kitchen + Bar, located in Carmel Valley, San Diego, offers an exceptional Asian dining experience, revered for its authentic and fresh cuisine. The restaurant captures the essence of Asian flavors with a modern twist, as noted by customers who describe their meals as "SOOOOO GOOD" and "spectacular." Master Chef Ethan's expertise shines through in every dish, with many diners praising the "super fresh fish" and the incredible omakase offerings. From the delightful poke nachos to the exquisitely prepared sushi, Glass Box provides a "transparent authentic cultural experience" that keeps patrons coming back for more.
A photo of Arterra restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(438)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Del Mar
Booked 1 time today
Here at Arterra enjoy one-of-a-kind, locally inspired food with a commitment to sourcing seasonal, sustainable ingredients. Our culinary team shines a focus on supporting local San Diego Farmer’s markets and purveyors. Indulge in our curated sushi menu by Sushi Chef Andew Ho. Enjoy handcrafted cocktails featuring local distillers, and innovative signature wine list, and a selection of bottled and draft beers from the area’s top craft breweries.
A photo of Kai Ola Sushi restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(6)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Oceanside
Booked 14 times today
California’s best sushi in a laid back, casual atmosphere with Hawaiian vibes.You will get the freshest, finest, and the best quality sushi at Kai Ola. We serve fresh, unique (as well as traditional) sushi and we take pride in how it tastes. Our chefs prepare top quality creations and we take pride in our work. Kai Ola is not about the scene. While locals and visitors alike love to dine with us, this is not a fine dining experience. This is about the fish. Sandals, board shorts, and bathing suits are welcome. Kai Ola has the true Aloha! spirit in everything we do. Please come join us for the best fish and sushi creations you have yet to taste.
A photo of Junmai Sushi Bar & Grill restaurant
5.0
Exceptional(0)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Vista
Booked 1 time today
Coming Soon!

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Caitlin
    San Diego •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined today
    Restaurant could use a good cleaning, but overall food was great. Had a fun time.
    More info
    Benihana - Carlsbad, CAPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Carlsbad
    3.8
  • Jessica
    San Diego •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Take my boyfriend’s family and him here for his birthday. Food came out pretty quick and our server was very attentive. At the end of his dinner, the server brought out Keylime pie and surprised us. I got the Mexican crested nut Seabass, with the garlic, mashed potatoes and grilled zucchini and it was decadent. Very delicious
    More info
    King's Fish House - CarlsbadPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Carlsbad
    4.6
  • Lori
    New York City •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    This years annual birthday dinner for our friend took place on the west coast for 2025–and after a great stay in Temecula we opted for The Pacific Grill. It did not disappoint! From its gorgeous beach location in Cardiff to the excellent and unhurried service we were thrilled to have such a perfect evening to cap off a “girls weekend”. Starting with specialty cocktails and an excellent premium wine list we enjoyed the heat lamp warmed beach patio for our meal. The shrimp dumplings in a port wine sauce were amazing to start with—I want to come back and try the chilled appetizers with my husband and family. We enjoyed coconut crab crusted mahi mahi and the seafood pasta dish—the smoky tomato sauce with Thai basil was very flavorful on the pasta and the seafood cooked to perfection. A beautiful birthday dessert of house bread pudding and vanilla bean ice cream and specialty cappuccino and teas capped off the night.
    More info
    Pacific Coast Grill - CardiffPrice: Very Expensive• Seafood• Cardiff By The Sea
    4.8
  • RAFFYVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •46 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
     I was very impressed with everything. The decor, the atmosphere the beautiful, kind and attentive staf!!!  and sushi was quite spectacular!
    More info
    Fish BoonPrice: Moderate• Sushi• Carlsbad
    4.8
  • Kate
    New York City •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jan 3, 2025
    Food was amazing! Best sushi besides Japan! Servers were really sweet and the atmosphere was relaxed. Overall an amazing restaurant. Look forward to visiting again.
    More info
    Shimbashi IzakayaPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Del Mar
    4.7

Discover best Japanese restaurants in Encinitas

If you're searching for authentic Japanese cuisine in Encinitas, North San Diego, you're in luck. The dining scene here offers a variety of Japanese restaurants each showcasing traditional flavors and culinary techniques. From sushi bars to izakayas, the emphasis on freshness and authenticity is paramount, reflecting a true taste of Japan. These establishments prioritize the quality of their ingredients, ensuring that dishes such as sushi, sashimi, and tempura are prepared with both skill and passion. The dining experience is enhanced by the serene and inviting atmospheres that characterize these spots, making them perfect for both casual lunches and special evenings out. The appreciation for meticulously crafted Japanese cuisine is evident in customer reviews, which frequently highlight the delightful food and the warm, attentive service. For enthusiasts of Japanese dining, Encinitas in North San Diego offers an enriching culinary journey that promises every meal to be both memorable and satisfying.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo