Browse all 166 Japanese restaurants in the Outside Eats dining guide to the San Francisco Peninsula. Select any restaurant for photos, hours, directions, reviews, and the full profile.
See our picks: The Best Japanese Restaurants on the SF Peninsula →
- AhiSushi Steakhouse Redwood CityFresh sushi, hibachi grilled USDA choice beef, and generous portions create incredible value for every diner.
- Aji Ichi Japanese Restaurant San BrunoFeatures fresh sushi and sashimi with real crab. Affordable prices with quality ingredients.
- Akagi Restaurant San BrunoLocal favorite serving fresh sushi and generous bento boxes at surprisingly affordable prices with friendly service.
- Akami Sushi Redwood CityExquisite sushi crafted with fresh ingredients and traditional Japanese techniques, offering memorable omakase experiences.
- Akizu Sushi Bar & Grill Foster CityOver 15 years sharing Japanese cuisine inspired by years in Japan.
- Amami San South San FranciscoExceptionally fresh fish with generous portions, especially the acclaimed $42 omakase featuring quality sushi pieces.
- Amami Sushi San BrunoAuthentic Japanese sushi with freshly prepared ingredients where every bite celebrates quality and freshness.
- Amami Sushi Bistro San BrunoA well-loved San Bruno sushi bar and Japanese bistro serving fresh omakase, creative specialty rolls, hamachi kama, tai carpaccio, and izakaya-style plates at reasonable prices.
- Araki Sushi Palo AltoFresh sushi, sashimi and bento boxes at reasonable prices with standout lunch deals on University Avenue.
- Barracuda Sushi BurlingameNewly remodeled dining room serves Japanese cuisine with contemporary twist.
- Bashamichi Sushi and Bar MillbraeFresh nigiri and sashimi with chef specialty rolls crafted for authentic Japanese flavors at modest prices.
- Benihana San MateoChefs perform the ancient art of Teppanyaki right at your table.
- Benihana - Burlingame BurlingameWatch jumbo jets land at SFO from waterfront patio dining.
- Buri Buri Burlingame BurlingameDesign your own unique sushi box with fresh specialty rolls.
- Curry Hyuga BurlingameCurry made fresh daily with aromatic spices and caramelized onions.
- Daigo Palo AltoHidden gem on Birch Street serving exceptional omakase, hamachi shots, and yuzu cheesecake in an intimate Japan-reminiscent setting.
- Dash Japanese Tapas and Sushi San MateoDaily fish specials flown fresh from Tokyo's Toyosu Fish Market.
- Demi Palo Alto Palo AltoDowntown Palo Alto sit-down restaurant from Kyoto-born chef Demi Ebara, serving elevated yoshoku — Japanese comfort food reimagining Western classics with Japanese technique.
- Diner Japonica Redwood CityDiner Japonica is a Japanese restaurant in Redwood City, California.
- Dohatsuten Ramen & Tapas Palo AltoNagoya-style ramen with spicy minced pork and Japanese small plates in a vibrant family-friendly spot open since 2009.
- Drunken Monk Menlo ParkIzakaya-inspired bar and restaurant with Japanese-influenced small plates, craft cocktails, sake, and a late-night vibe popular with the downtown Menlo Park crowd.
- Eighty-Eight Sushi & Ramen Mountain ViewEighty-Eight Sushi & Ramen is a Japanese restaurant in Mountain View, California.
- Ethel's Fancy Palo AltoA cozy upscale neighborhood restaurant in downtown Palo Alto focused on locally sourced seasonal ingredients and a thoughtfully curated wine list.
- Fuji Sukiyaki San MateoFuji Sukiyaki is a Japanese restaurant in San Mateo, California.
- Fuki Sushi Palo AltoElegant California Avenue sushi restaurant with a devoted following for its pristine nigiri, omakase options, and serene unhurried dining pace.
- Furagu Sushi San MateoNo delivery fee on your first order with live tracking.
- Fuumi BurlingameRamen broth boiled all day from scratch with no chemicals.
- Go Sushi Japanese Restaurant PacificaFull-service Japanese restaurant at 190 Eureka Square open since 2003 with fresh sashimi, creative rolls, bento boxes, and ramen.
- Gochi Japanese Fusion Tapas Mountain ViewGochi Japanese Fusion Tapas is a Japanese restaurant in Mountain View, California.
- Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ San MateoGrill premium meats over flaming charcoal at your own table.
- Hakkai Nigiri Bar & Tapas San CarlosSignature dishes feature Hamachi Carpaccio and Iwana Tataki with fresh seafood.
- Hana Izumi MillbraeTraditional Japanese Kaiseki showcasing seasonal ingredients with Chef Koji trained at renowned Kitcho in Tokyo.
- Hanabi Ramen and Japanese Curry BurlingameCarefully crafted tori paitan broth and house-made katsu curries.
- Hanabi Sushi Mountain ViewHanabi Sushi is a Japanese restaurant in Mountain View, California.
- Hangetsu Sushi Half Moon BayDinner-only Japanese restaurant offering Kuzushi Kaiseki, combining traditional kaiseki structure with omakase sashimi and creative, Western-influenced dishes.
- Haru Los AltosDowntown Los Altos Japanese restaurant from the team behind Sushi Jin, specializing in traditional gozen set meals, dry-aged fish, sushi, wagyu, izakaya small plates, and handcrafted cocktails at accessible prices.
- Hayashi Sushi Half Moon BayJapanese restaurant on Cabrillo Highway North serving nigiri, sashimi, creative rolls, bento boxes, and ramen made with traditional techniques.
- Hibachi Truck (food truck) Daly CityHibachi-style food truck with grilled meats, fried rice, and Japanese-American street food served from a mobile kitchen in the Daly City area.
- Hibari Portola ValleyIntimate kappo-style omakase from a former Nobu head sushi chef. Six-seat counter with chef-prepared courses and a 22-seat dining room with prix fixe tasting menus.
- Higuma Japanese Restaurant Redwood CityHiguma Japanese Restaurant is a Japanese restaurant in Redwood City, California.
- Himawari San MateoOffers gluten-free noodles and multiple ramen broth options including shoyu.
- HiroNori Craft Ramen San MateoOriginal ramen noodles fresh-cut every morning with 24-hour simmered broth.
- Hiroshi Los AltosIntimate omakase experience featuring premium A5 Wagyu and fish imported directly from Japan's Toyosu market.
- Hirotaka Sushi Menlo ParkTraditional Japanese sushi restaurant with fresh nigiri, sashimi, and classic rolls in a quiet neighborhood setting popular with Menlo Park regulars.
- Holy Sushi Palo AltoCasual downtown sushi spot with an extensive menu of rolls, nigiri, and Japanese entrees at approachable everyday prices.
- Hotaru Restaurant San MateoAuthentic Japanese sushi and home-style Japanese food in San Mateo.
- Ichiban Sushi San BrunoExpertly crafted sushi and sashimi with authentic flavors and creative twists like Dragon Roll and Green Dragon Roll.
- Ichika Izakaya San BrunoIchika Izakaya is a Japanese restaurant in San Bruno, California.
- Iki Omakase Palo AltoBay Area-style Edomae omakase at $195 per person from Chef Jiabo Li, trained at Sushi Hon and Sato Omakase in San Francisco.
- Izakaya Fusion Grill Keitan San MateoBinchotan-grilled yakitori with daily happy hour and karaoke room experience.
- Izakaya Ginji San MateoModern and globally inspired dishes with comfort in homestyle cooking.
- Izakaya Mai San MateoIzakaya Mai is a Japanese restaurant in San Mateo, California.
- Izanami South San FranciscoSpecializes in authentic ramen and fresh sushi using locally sourced ingredients and fish from Japan.
- Jin Sho Palo AltoRefined California Avenue Japanese restaurant with chefs trained at Nobu NY, praised for pristine miso black cod, blue fin tuna, and seasonal sashimi.
- Joy Sushi San MateoCelebrating 20 years serving good food and treating everyone like family.
- Joy Sushi Mountain ViewJoy Sushi is a Japanese restaurant in Mountain View, California.
- Kajiken San MateoFresh homemade noodles with secret sauces and customizable toppings.
- Kakaroto Japanese Restaurant Mountain ViewKakaroto Japanese Restaurant is a Japanese restaurant in Mountain View, California.
- Kani Kosen PacificaIntimate Japanese seafood restaurant on Crespi Dr run by the same family for over 30 years, dinner only.
- Kanji Sushi & Ramen Palo AltoLively Japanese spot combining creative sushi rolls and rich tonkotsu and miso ramen bowls in a casual, welcoming setting.
- Kanpai Palo AltoIntimate Lytton Avenue Japanese restaurant with a tranquil Japan-inspired interior, traditional donburi, sushi, and an extensive sake selection.
- Katsu Mountain ViewKatsu is a Japanese restaurant in Mountain View, California.
- Kaz Teriyaki Grill San MateoVery affordable, window service Japanese cuisine. Grab and go: Bento Box, Curry, Bowls, Noodles. Known for great service and friendly staff.
- Kazu Sushi and Sando San MateoFamily-owned business serving omakase boxes and milk bread sandos.
- Kemuri Japanese Barú Redwood CityKemuri Japanese Barú is a Japanese restaurant in Redwood City, California.
- Kenta Ramen Foster CitySignature ramen noodles and artfully crafted sushi rolls showcase Japanese artistry.
- King Katsu Land Daly CityFilipino-Japanese katsu restaurant at Gellert Boulevard with crispy panko-breaded pork and chicken cutlets, garlic rice, and Filipino comfort plates that consistently draw long lines.
- Kiroro Sushi BelmontFresh ingredients and expertly crafted sushi with exceptional quality.
- Kodawari Japanese Cuisine San MateoSushi bar and yakitori with private tatami room dining.
- Kyosho Menlo ParkJapanese restaurant with an intimate dining room serving traditional izakaya-style small plates, sushi, and sake selections in a neighborhood setting.
- Majikku Ramen Daly CityFamily-friendly ramen and Japanese comfort food restaurant at Skyline Plaza with a signature curry ramen, salmon dinners, and late-night hours on weekends.
- Marufuku Ramen Daly CityHakata-style ramen restaurant at Serramonte Center, with pork and chicken broth ramen, rice bowls and Japanese appetizers.
- Marufuku Ramen Redwood Redwood CityAuthentic Hakata style Tonkotsu ramen with rich pork broth boiled for over 20 hours and ultra thin artisanal noodles.
- Marugame Udon Palo AltoJapanese fast-casual chain on University Avenue with handcrafted Sanuki-style udon made to order in an open theater kitchen.
- Masa Sushi Japan Mountain ViewMasa Sushi Japan is a Japanese restaurant in Mountain View, California.
- Mijouri SushiBune San BrunoAuthentic sushi boat restaurant serving fresh, generous bento boxes and special rolls at affordable prices.
- Mikado Los AltosFresh sushi and bento boxes with friendly service and consistently high quality fish.
- Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House San MateoPremium Wagyu sourced from their own Masami Ranch with umami-rich broth.
- Mizu Sushi Bar & Grill Mountain ViewMizu Sushi Bar & Grill is a Japanese restaurant in Mountain View, California.
- MJ Sushi Menlo ParkValue-focused sushi chain at 325 Sharon Park Drive with fresh sashimi, specialty rolls, ramen, and karaage — popular for quality at accessible prices with free bottled drinks.
- MJ Sushi Foster City Foster CityFresh sashimi with generous fish portions and flavorful specialty rolls.
- MJ Sushi Palo Alto Palo AltoCasual neighborhood sushi spot with generous portions of fresh nigiri, creative rolls, and beef udon at everyday prices.
- Mokutanya BurlingameFresh daily meats and vegetables grilled over charcoal yakitori style.
- Mr Teriyaki Sushi BurlingameFamily-owned restaurant serving tasty and cost-friendly sushi and entrees.
- Ninja Sushi & Tofu San BrunoA late-night San Bruno Japanese and Korean restaurant serving fresh sushi, chirashi, tofu dishes, Korean BBQ, and izakaya-style small plates until 2 AM Wednesday through Sunday.
- Nobu Restaurant Palo Alto Palo AltoThe Bay Area's only Nobu location at the Epiphany Hotel, co-founded by Chef Matsuhisa and Robert De Niro, with signature black cod miso.
- Noma Sushi San MateoFeatures creative sushi chefs who craft amazing custom dishes.
- Ocean Fish Sushi & Grill PacificaDinner-only neighborhood sushi and Japanese grill on Oceana Blvd with fresh nigiri, creative rolls, and poke bowls.
- Octopus Japanese Restaurant Menlo ParkNeighborhood Japanese restaurant with a broad menu of sushi, teriyaki, ramen, and traditional plates in a casual family-friendly setting.
- Odori Japanese Cuisine Palo AltoQuiet neighborhood Japanese restaurant with precise sashimi, teriyaki, and bento boxes in a relaxed unhurried setting.
- Oh Baby Sushi Redwood CitySpecializes in vegan sushi, brown rice sushi, sashimi tasting, and fusion sushi tacos with fresh, quality ingredients.
- Omakase World Market South San FranciscoA South San Francisco market hall from the Omakase Restaurant Group featuring Michelin-starred sushi, award-winning dim sum, artisan pizza, rotisserie chicken, gourmet sandwiches, a bar, and culinary events all under one roof.
- One Piece Sushi MillbraeFresh sushi and customizable udon at amazing value, with iPad ordering for a modern dining experience.
- Onigilly Japanese Kitchen - Palo Alto Palo AltoJapanese rice ball chain with gourmet onigiri stuffed with premium fillings like salmon, tuna, and umeboshi for a quick nutritious meal.
- Otoko Sushi Redwood CityChef Victor crafts seasonal omakase with fresh seafood and locally sourced sustainable ingredients.
- Owada San CarlosFresh and well prepared sushi with many delighted returning customers.
- Ramen Dojo San MateoWeekly rotation of slow-cooked dishes reflecting best seasonal ingredients.
- Ramen Kowa Palo AltoCalifornia Avenue ramen kitchen with rich broths, perfectly fried karaage, and Japanese curry in a neighborhood setting representing Japanese culture and craft.
- Ramen Nagi Palo AltoRevered Tokyo-based ramen chain with its first US location in Palo Alto, famous for intensely rich broth and fully customizable bowls.
- Ramen Parlor San MateoFeatures distinctive lobster garlic pork and crab specialty ramen bowls.
- Ranzan Redwood CityAuthentic kaiseki courses featuring seasonal Japanese ingredients that change monthly. Elegant multi course dining with exceptional Omotenashi service.
- Ren Omakase Menlo ParkRen Omakase is a Japanese restaurant in Menlo Park, California.
- Rikyu Palo AltoA modern matcha café in downtown Palo Alto rooted in Japanese tea culture, serving ceremonial-grade matcha, Japanese sandos, chirashi bentos, and hosting private events.
- Rin-Tei San MateoThai and Japanese fusion with authentic flavors by Chef Tam.
- Robin Menlo Park Menlo ParkRobin Menlo Park is a Japanese restaurant in Menlo Park, California.
- Ryoshin Sushi BelmontFeatures Omakase and seasonal fish like Hokkaido Sea urchin.
- SAKAE Sushi BurlingameFresh fish imported from Japan paired with premium sake.
- Sakura San Carlos San CarlosOffers hibachi or intimate dining meal experience with teppanyaki.
- Sakura Teppanyaki and Sushi Redwood CityTalented chefs entertain tableside, preparing fresh sushi and hibachi with skill and showmanship.
- Santa Ramen San MateoServing authentic Yokohama-style ramen with rich broth since 1994.
- Sapporo Rock & Roll Sushi San MateoVIP dining area and ocean fresh sushi served daily.
- Satsuma Sushi Mountain ViewWell-loved neighborhood sushi restaurant on E El Camino Real recently remodeled, known for wagyu nigiri, generous combo platters, and friendly family ownership since 1982.
- Shabu Club BurlingameInteractive hot pot with signature house-made green sauce and fusion flavors.
- Shiki Bistro San CarlosChefs prepare fresh fish using delectable spices and inspiring techniques.
- Shiki Japanese Cuisine Half Moon BayJapanese restaurant at Stone Pine Center with fresh nigiri, sushi rolls, teriyaki, and innovative specialty dishes.
- Sizzling Lunch Foster CityCook your own food on hot iron plates with fresh ingredients.
- Sizzling Lunch Mountain ViewWeekday-only lunch spot serving quick Chinese-American plates and sizzling dishes for the local office crowd.
- Soko Soko Japanese Cuisine San CarlosTraditional Japanese flavors combined with a modern twist here.
- Spiral Flame San BrunoAuthentic Chinese BBQ and fresh sushi combine for a unique dining experience with smoky skewers and quality ingredients.
- Sumika Los AltosAuthentic izakaya serving charcoal grilled skewers and famous oyakodon since 2008.
- Sumo Japanese Restaurant Los AltosFamily favorite featuring fresh sushi with a sushi boat bar and extensive vegetarian options in a child friendly atmosphere.
- Sushi Ai Redwood CityFish sourced from Japan's Toyosu Market, expertly dry aged to enhance umami and showcase peak flavors.
- Sushi Arashi Mountain ViewSushi bar on Castro Street with a broad menu of rolls, nigiri, and Japanese plates open all day seven days a week.
- Sushi Edomata San MateoFresh high-quality fish imported from Japan with traditional sushi dishes.
- Sushi House San BrunoFamily owned authentic Japanese restaurant offering fresh sushi and generous bento boxes at affordable prices with complimentary miso soup.
- Sushi House Palo AltoLongtime Palo Alto neighborhood sushi restaurant with fresh traditional nigiri, rolls, and Japanese entrees in a welcoming setting.
- Sushi Jin Mountain ViewIntimate dinner-only sushi bar on N Rengstorff Avenue with premium omakase-style service and fresh sashimi in a quiet neighborhood setting.
- Sushi Kashiwa PacificaPacifica's go-to destination for premium Japanese cuisine, with an emphasis on freshness and authenticity.
- Sushi Kazoku San CarlosThey craft delicious dishes with fresh ingredients blending tradition and creativity.
- Sushi Kei MillbraeAuthentic sushi crafted by Chef Ryo Kikuchi from Hokkaido, emphasizing quality over quantity since 1993.
- Sushi Kinsen Redwood CityAuthentic Ginza style omakase featuring Toyosu Market fish prepared with traditional Edomae technique and personalized sensibility.
- Sushi Kuu BelmontKnown for variety of tastes and high-quality fresh ingredients.
- Sushi Maruyama San MateoHighest grade seasonal fish from Tsukiji with traditional red vinegar.
- Sushi Monster BelmontThey prepare fresh ingredients daily and serve authentic Japanese cuisine.
- Sushi Roku Palo Alto Palo AltoUpscale contemporary Japanese restaurant at Stanford Shopping Center with premium nigiri, signature rolls, and creative cocktails.
- Sushi Shin Redwood CitySushi Shin is a Japanese restaurant in Redwood City, California.
- Sushi Tomi Mountain ViewBeloved Mountain View sushi institution on W Dana Street since 1982, with daily specials, generous combo platters, fresh chirashi, and a loyal neighborhood following.
- Sushi Yoshizumi San MateoSan Mateo's acclaimed Michelin recommended omakase counter devoted to traditional Edomae sushi — fish, rice, and wasabi only, sourced directly from Japan, with rare imported sake.
- Sushi+Plus Redwood CityFresh daily tuna from four fish companies and generous portions of creative specialty rolls at reasonable prices.
- Sushiko Los AltosSecond generation sushi restaurant serving fresh fish and perfectly made rolls with complimentary miso soup and edamame.
- Sushinaloa Redwood CityExperience Japanese sushi precision blended with vibrant Sinaloan flavors. Signature fusion rolls and fresh mariscos celebrate Mexican culinary creativity.
- Taishoken Ramen San MateoTsukemen invented here is dipped in broth cooked two days.
- Taki Nori Hand Roll Bar San MateoTaki Nori Hand Roll Bar is a Japanese restaurant in San Mateo, California.
- Takumi San CarlosExpertly crafted sushi rolls with fresh ingredients and authentic Japanese flavors.
- Tane Vegan Izakaya Palo AltoPalo Alto's only 100% plant-based sushi bar with gluten-free rolls, location-exclusive Hawaiian poke bowls, and king oyster mushroom nigiri.
- The Backhouse San MateoChef Ju-i experiments with dry-aging and nontraditional garnishes on sushi.
- Tiny Sushi - Oh Baby Daly CityIntimate sushi spot at Westlake Center with a focused menu of fresh rolls and nigiri praised for quality and value — a local hidden gem with a loyal following.
- Toki Sushi Mountain ViewNeighborhood sushi restaurant on N Shoreline Boulevard with fresh rolls, nigiri, baked appetizers, and a reliable all-day menu on weekends.
- Tokie's Downtown San MateoOver 40 years serving Japanese comfort food in family atmosphere.
- Tokyo Sushi & Bar South San FranciscoFresh handcrafted sushi and creative fusion plates in a modern setting with happy hour specials.
- Tom San Ramen Daly CityNeighborhood ramen shop with Japanese-style noodle soups, tonkotsu broth, and traditional ramen accompaniments in a casual setting.
- Tomo Sushi & Teriyaki Daly CityJapanese restaurant with a broad menu of sushi rolls, sashimi, teriyaki plates, and bento boxes available for dine-in and delivery.
- Tomokazu Japanese Cuisine BurlingameOffers traditional tatami seating and private dining rooms for guests.
- Totoro Ramen San MateoRich pork bone broth slow-cooked for over 18 hours daily.
- Tsukira Ramen Foster CityHandcrafted noodles paired with rich broths simmered for hours.
- Udon Mugizo San MateoThick-cut homemade udon with kombu kelp stock and premium fish flakes.
- Udon Mugizo Mountain View Mountain ViewJapanese udon specialist on Castro Street with thick handmade noodles in rich broths, tempura toppings, and set meal options — consistently rated one of Mountain View's best Japanese spots.
- Wakuriya San MateoSan Mateo's Michelin-starred kaiseki counter run by chef Katsuhiro Yamasaki, offering a monthly changing multi-course menu rooted in Japanese tradition and California ingredients.
- Yakiniku Ginza Mountain ViewJapanese barbecue restaurant with tabletop grilling, wagyu beef, seafood, vegetables and Japanese small plates.
- YAYOI Palo Alto Palo AltoJapanese teishoku restaurant chain serving set meal combos with grilled fish, rice, miso soup, and pickles in a clean efficient fast-casual format.
- Yokohama Iekei Ramen Daly City Daly CityAuthentic iekei-style ramen restaurant in Daly City with thick tonkotsu soy broth, firm noodles, and generous chashu pork in the beloved Yokohama ramen tradition.
- Yoshi Ramen & Sushi Daly CityCombination ramen and sushi restaurant with rich broth noodle soups alongside fresh rolls and nigiri — a versatile neighborhood Japanese spot open seven days.
- Yoshi Sushi Los AltosIncredibly fresh sushi and sashimi with innovative twists, plus great sake and Japanese craft beer.
- Yugen Ramen Mountain ViewPopular ramen izakaya near Google campus with rich tonkotsu and shoyu broths, izakaya small plates, and sake — one of Mountain View's most consistently praised ramen spots.
- Yutori Palo AltoA California-inspired Japanese cafe and konbini serving matcha drinks, fresh onigiri, seasonal bentos, and sandwiches daily in a thoughtfully designed space.
- Yuzu San MateoFresh fish from Japan and large selection of premium sake.
About Japanese Restaurants on the SF Peninsula
Japanese restaurants are a Peninsula strength, spanning sushi bars, ramen counters, izakaya, and specialty spots devoted to a single craft. San Mateo in particular has a dense, well-regarded cluster, with strong options through Burlingame, Palo Alto, and Mountain View that draw a knowledgeable local crowd.
Sushi is the headline for many diners, and the Peninsula supports both approachable neighborhood bars and higher-end counters where the fish and the rice are treated with real care. Sitting at the bar and letting the chef guide you is the way to experience the best of them. Beyond sushi, ramen has become a category of its own, with shops simmering rich tonkotsu, lighter shoyu and shio bowls, and spicy miso versions that fill quickly at lunch.
Izakaya culture is alive here too, built for lingering over small plates and drinks, with skewers off the grill, karaage, grilled fish, and seasonal specials meant to be shared. You will also find focused specialists doing udon, donburi, curry, tonkatsu, or okonomiyaki, plus tidy spots for a fast, well-made lunch set.
What sets the Peninsula apart is the level of authenticity and the number of Japanese diners who keep kitchens honest. That shows up in careful sourcing, restrained seasoning, and attention to detail rather than flash.
Prices run from budget-friendly ramen and lunch sets to special-occasion sushi. Use the list below to compare Japanese restaurants by city, then open a profile for hours, photos, and directions. San Mateo is the natural starting point, but excellent Japanese food is easy to find across the region.
