Izakaya Masa
Price Range: $$ | Neighborhood: Hillcrest
Address: 4654 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Izakaya Masa is a cozy and intimate izakaya-style restaurant in Hillcrest, offering an extensive menu of traditional Japanese small plates. Their specialties include yakitori (grilled skewers), sashimi, and various rice bowls. The atmosphere is welcoming, and the food is expertly crafted, making it a perfect spot for casual dining or a night out with friends.
Must-try dishes: The yakitori assortment is a highlight, along with the crispy chicken karaage and the flavorful miso soup.
Yakitori Taisho
Price Range: $$ | Neighborhood: Kearny Mesa
Address: 4646 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Yakitori Taisho is a beloved spot in Kearny Mesa, specializing in yakitori (grilled skewers), a popular dish in Japanese izakayas. The focus is on simplicity, quality, and the smoky flavors of the grill. The intimate setting and excellent customer service make it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Must-try dishes: The grilled chicken skewers, along with the tsukune (chicken meatballs), and donburi rice bowls are fan favorites.
Wa Dining Okan
Price Range: $$ | Neighborhood: University Heights
Address: 4616 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Wa Dining Okan is a homey, family-run restaurant serving a variety of comforting Japanese dishes in the University Heights neighborhood. The restaurant feels like a warm embrace with its home-cooked-style meals, focusing on traditional Japanese comfort foods like udon, sushi, and bento boxes. The inviting atmosphere is perfect for a cozy meal.
Must-try dishes: The katsu curry (breaded and fried pork cutlet with curry) and the tempura udon are highly recommended.
Tsuruhashi
Price Range: $$-$$$ | Neighborhood: Kearny Mesa
Address: 4646 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
Tsuruhashi specializes in yakiniku, or Japanese BBQ, where diners can grill their own meats at the table. Located in the heart of San Diego’s Convoy District, this spot offers an all-you-can-eat menu that includes premium cuts of beef, pork, and chicken. The experience is fun and interactive, and the quality of the meats is top-notch.
Must-try dishes: The wagyu beef and the grilled pork belly are standouts, along with their delicious dipping sauces.
Izakaya Sakura
Price Range: $$ | Neighborhood: Mira Mesa
Address: 9353 Clairemont Mesa Blvd #C, San Diego, CA 92123
Izakaya Sakura offers a traditional Japanese izakaya dining experience, with a great selection of small plates like sashimi, tempura, and various grilled dishes. Located in Mira Mesa, this restaurant has an authentic vibe and friendly service. It’s a great place for a casual meal with an emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Must-try dishes: The sushi rolls, grilled mackerel, and the agedashi tofu are crowd-pleasers.
Ju-ichi
Price Range: $$$ | Neighborhood: Little Italy
Address: 607 W Date St, San Diego, CA 92101
Ju-ichi is an intimate sushi bar in Little Italy, offering an upscale dining experience with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and traditional sushi preparation. The chef’s omakase (chef’s choice) menu is a highlight, showcasing the freshest fish and creative presentations. Ju-ichi is perfect for sushi enthusiasts seeking a refined and authentic experience.
Must-try dishes: The omakase is a must, as well as their nigiri and hand rolls that feature the finest cuts of fish.
Mitsuwa Marketplace
Price Range: $-$$ | Neighborhood: Kearny Mesa
Address: 4240 Kearny Mesa Rd, San Diego, CA 92111
Mitsuwa Marketplace is a Japanese grocery store with a bustling food court offering a wide variety of Japanese dishes, from ramen and sushi to bento boxes. Located in the Convoy District, it’s a great spot for a quick, affordable meal. The food court also features several small stands offering freshly made Japanese treats.
Must-try dishes: The ramen and sushi rolls are popular, along with the various bento box options available throughout the marketplace.
Soichi Sushi
Price Range: $$$$ | Neighborhood: Mission Hills
Address: 2575 Front St, San Diego, CA 92103
Soichi Sushi in Mission Hills is a high-end, intimate sushi spot offering an extraordinary sushi experience with a focus on the freshest seasonal fish. The restaurant is known for its creative and artful presentations, especially the omakase, which allows diners to experience the chef’s best selections of the day. The quiet atmosphere and personalized service make it perfect for a special occasion.
Must-try dishes: The omakase and their toro (fatty tuna) nigiri are highly recommended.
Sushi Ota
Price Range: $$$ | Neighborhood: Pacific Beach
Address: 4526 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109
Sushi Ota is a beloved sushi spot in Pacific Beach, known for its high-quality sushi and authentic Japanese flavors. The restaurant offers an intimate, understated setting that lets the food shine. Sushi Ota’s reputation for excellence in both sushi preparation and customer service has made it a local favorite for over 25 years.
Must-try dishes: The omakase, nigiri, and sashimi are highly recommended for sushi connoisseurs.
Nobu San Diego
Price Range: $$$$ | Neighborhood: Gaslamp Quarter
Address: 207 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Nobu San Diego is part of the renowned international chain of high-end restaurants offering sushi and Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine. Located in the Gaslamp Quarter, the upscale restaurant serves creative dishes in a sleek, stylish setting. Whether it’s sushi, sashimi, or their signature Nobu-style dishes, you can expect high-end ingredients and exceptional flavors.
Must-try dishes: The Black Cod Miso, Yellowtail Jalapeño, and their sushi rolls are top recommendations.
