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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)
4.8
Exceptional(758)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • San Mateo
Booked 33 times today
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in San Mateo offers an unparalleled Barbecue experience that truly stands out. As the world’s leading Japanese BBQ brand, Gyu-Kaku delivers "high quality meat, well seasoned" and a fun, interactive dining experience where you become the chef. Diners rave about the "exceptional meat selection" and the thrill of grilling over a smokeless tabletop grill. The Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib are must-try dishes, perfectly complemented by Japanese sake and frosty cold beers. With "great food, great service, and great atmosphere," Gyu-Kaku ensures a memorable dining adventure that keeps patrons coming back for more.
A photo of Izakaya Ginji restaurant
2. Izakaya Ginji
4.5
Awesome(235)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • San Mateo
Booked 4 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown San Mateo, Izakaya Ginji is a haven for lovers of authentic Japanese cuisine. Specializing in Yakitori and tapas-style dishes, this Japanese gastropub offers a "consistently great experience" that keeps patrons returning time and again. Diners rave about their "delicious authentic izakaya food" and the use of genuine binchotan charcoal, which infuses the skewers with flavors that "pop better than other Izakayas." With a vast selection of rare sake, unique beers, and shochu, every visit promises a "genuine and satisfying" Japanese dining experience. A lovely family-owned establishment, Izakaya Ginji is truly a local gem.
A photo of Benihana - Burlingame, CA restaurant
3. Benihana - Burlingame, CA
4.3
Awesome(5074)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Burlingame
Booked 117 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
4.5
Awesome(898)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Burlingame
Booked 21 times today
Mokutanya Yakitori Charcoal in Burlingame is a haven for authentic Japanese Barbecue cuisine that truly stands out. Known for its exquisite charcoal-grilled skewers, "the salt and pepper Wagyu skewers are absolute heaven," as praised by delighted patrons. The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its semi-private rooms and sunken Japanese tables, providing a cozy and intimate setting for savoring the delicious offerings. Guests rave about the "friendly and attentive service," which complements the high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. Whether it's the tender yakitori or the flavorful Wagyu beef, Mokutanya promises an unforgettable culinary journey that keeps diners coming back for more.
A photo of Sapporo Rock-N-Roll Sushi Restaurant restaurant
5. Sapporo Rock-N-Roll Sushi Restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(52)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • San Mateo
Booked 4 times today
Welcome to Sapporo Rock-N-Roll Sushi * Open Monday, Wednesday to Sunday 5pm-9:30pm * For party reservation over 6 people, please email or call in with your name, number of party, date and time, phone number to reserve a table. Restaurant Host will respond within 1 business date to confirm your reservation.* Temporarily closed on Tuesday Dinner | Happy Hour | Reservation | Take out | When you drink Sapporo beer, you remember Sapporo Rock-N-Roll Sushi Restaurant.* Contemporary Environment* Enjoyable Atmosphere* Cheerful Drinks* Savory Food* Fresh DailySecret Box - please reserve it in advance(limited servings 6 orders daily); it's reflecting seasonal and daily availability of pristine ingredients. Price may vary.
A photo of 808 Zone restaurant
6. 808 Zone
5.0
Exceptional(18)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Foster City
Booked 2 times today
Nestled in the heart of Foster City, 808 Zone offers an extraordinary Asian dining experience that effortlessly melds traditional omakase with contemporary flair. With dishes that are "beautifully presented" and flavors that are "spectacular," it’s no wonder diners keep coming back for more. Guests rave about the "creative but delicious takes on each course," showcasing the chef's innovative touch. The restaurant's interactive ambiance, led by the engaging Chef Robert, ensures an unforgettable culinary journey, where "every dish aims to bring something innovative to the table." Perfect for those seeking a unique and refined yet casual dining adventure, 808 Zone is truly a gem.
A photo of Sushi Shin - Redwood City restaurant
7. Sushi Shin - Redwood City
4.9
Exceptional(29)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Redwood City
Booked 1 time today
Sushi Shin is an Authentic Japanese Fine dining. Featuring an Omakase menu, which is chef's choice for the most fresh, top quality of fish and seafood. Mostly imported from Tokyo fish market. Other best ingredients from all around the world. Serving Japanese Sakes and bottle Japanese beers. You can experience authentic Edomae-style sushi.
A photo of Gintei restaurant
8. Gintei
4.4
Awesome(507)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • San Bruno
Booked 4 times today
Gintei in San Bruno offers an unmatched Japanese dining experience, praised for its “super fresh fish” sourced directly from Japan's renowned Tsukiji market. This authentic sushi haven delights with its rich array of dishes, from the exquisite Omakase to the “best braised pork belly” that patrons have ever tasted. The sophisticated yet simple ambiance complements the high-quality cuisine, making it a standout choice for sushi enthusiasts. Diners rave about the exceptional service, noting it as a “hidden gem” that surpasses many of San Francisco's favorites. With a Michelin recommendation to its name, Gintei is a must-visit for those seeking genuine Japanese flavors.
A photo of RANZAN restaurant
9. RANZAN
4.8
Exceptional(65)
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(26)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • San Bruno
Booked 6 times today
Ichika Izakaya in San Bruno is a culinary treasure trove for aficionados of authentic Japanese cuisine. This hidden gem offers an exquisite dining experience that has earned it glowing reviews for both its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional food. Patrons rave about the "fabulous omakase" and the expertly crafted dishes, such as the highly recommended double toro roll. The restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity is evident in every dish, with "super flavorful" offerings that are "cooked to perfection." Friendly, attentive staff and a lively environment further enhance the experience, making Ichika Izakaya a must-visit for Japanese food enthusiasts.

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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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