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Best Japanese Restaurants in Downtown

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23 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant
1. Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego
4.6
Exceptional(1737)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 10 times today
Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego, nestled in the vibrant Downtown, is a standout in American cuisine. Renowned for its innovative twists and seasonal ingredients, it offers a fresh-catch experience that diners rave about. One reviewer exclaimed, "The food was incredible and perfect to share," highlighting the delectable variety and quality presented in each dish. Notably, the restaurant's American flair is evident in the exquisite steak and lobster spaghetti, praised as "amazing" and "rich and tasty." With its polished ambiance and exceptional service, Lionfish ensures an unforgettable dining adventure, making it a must-visit for lovers of authentic and refined American cuisine.
A photo of Lumi restaurant
2. Lumi
4.6
Exceptional(691)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 32 times today
Lumi, located in the heart of Downtown San Diego, offers an exceptional Cocktail Bar experience that elevates any dining occasion. Guests rave about the "creative fresh cocktails" that perfectly complement its innovative Japanese fare. The rooftop location provides a vibrant atmosphere, making it the perfect spot for an unforgettable night out. The bartenders are lauded for their expertise, crafting unique drinks like “The Mule,” an intriguing twist on a classic favorite. With its lively vibe, attentive service, and expertly crafted libations, Lumi stands out as a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts looking to enjoy a memorable evening in a stunning setting.
A photo of Full Moon Sushi Kitchen Bar and Lounge restaurant
3. Full Moon Sushi Kitchen Bar and Lounge
4.5
Awesome(401)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Full Moon Sushi Kitchen Bar and Lounge in the heart of San Diego's Gaslamp District is a beacon of exceptional seafood cuisine. Celebrated for its "unbelievably good" sushi, this Kaizen sushi restaurant offers a menu brimming with fresh and delicious options. Diners rave about the "best sashimi" and the "phenomenal uni shooter," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to quality and freshness. With a talented team led by Chef Sung, Full Moon provides an authentic seafood experience that combines impeccable service with creative and unique sushi offerings. Whether it's the "fresh fish" or the "exotic selections," Full Moon guarantees a memorable dining adventure.
A photo of AKA San Diego restaurant
4. AKA San Diego
3.9
Excellent(61)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 47 times today
Located in the vibrant Gaslamp Quarter of San Diego, AKA delivers an unparalleled Sushi experience crafted by the esteemed Chef Takuya Kudo. This spot isn't just about eating; it's a "sensory journey" where each meticulously prepared sushi dish is an "explosion of flavor." Diners rave about the "fresh Yellowtail Sashimi and Salmon Belly Nigiri that practically melts in your mouth," showcasing the restaurant's dedication to quality and authenticity. Paired with its chic ambiance, AKA offers an exquisite dining adventure. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or a first-timer, this culinary gem promises a memorable and delicious experience.
A photo of Zama Restaurant & Bar restaurant
5. Zama Restaurant & Bar
4.0
Excellent(295)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 27 times today
Zama Restaurant & Bar in downtown San Diego offers an exceptional Asian dining experience with a vibrant twist of Latin American flavors. The restaurant's unique fusion cuisine, crafted by Chef Tayuka Kudo, blends Peruvian, Mexican, and Japanese influences, resulting in standout dishes like their sushi rolls and Agua Chile. Guests rave about the "amazing food" and "delicious sushi," praising the vibrant atmosphere that echoes the lush Amazonian jungle. The lively ambiance, complete with a DJ on select nights, creates a "fun and energetic" setting, perfect for celebrations or a memorable night out. With attentive service and creative cocktails, Zama promises a dining experience like no other.
A photo of Bang on 5th restaurant
6. Bang on 5th
3.9
Excellent(16)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Formerly known as Bang Bang, Bang on 5th is located in the heart of San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter. With an Asian-fusion, sushi-centric food menu featuring fresh-catch cuisine such as flaming sushi boats, sashimi & nigiri, as well as modern touches on traditional asian cuisine. Matched with a tasty drink menu featuring craft cocktails, sake, and Japanese Whiskys. Enjoy our immersive atmosphere as you walk into downtown Tokyo, listening to live music from a DJ while eating under the largest disco ball on the west coast.Whether you’re enjoying a date night, business meeting, or a large group’s celebration; Bang on 5th is an experience like no other.Opentable Diner’s Choice award winner 3 years in a row 2021-2023.
A photo of Downtown Sushi restaurant
7. Downtown Sushi
4.5
Awesome(71)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 11 times today
Downtown Sushi in San Diego is a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic Asian cuisine. Chef Andy masterfully crafts each dish, offering a "symphony of flavors" that highlight the finest, sustainably sourced seafood. The Omakase Premium Sashimi and specialty rolls like the Love Roll and Fire Roll are crowd favorites, praised for their "phenomenal" taste and "high-quality" freshness. Diners rave about the restaurant's "outstanding service" and vibrant atmosphere, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a local or visiting, Downtown Sushi promises an unforgettable culinary experience, earning its reputation as the best sushi spot in downtown.
A photo of Nobu San Diego restaurant
8. Nobu San Diego
4.6
Exceptional(3750)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 34 times today
Nobu San Diego is a beacon of excellence in Contemporary Asian cuisine, nestled in the vibrant Downtown area. With Chef Nobu Matsuhisa at the helm, the restaurant offers a culinary adventure that has diners raving. Known for legendary dishes like the Black Cod Miso and Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeno, guests are treated to "world-class dining" that leaves a lasting impression. Executive Chef David Meade brings unique creations to the menu, ensuring every dish is "perfectly prepared." The ambiance is both sophisticated and lively, making it ideal for special occasions. As one satisfied diner put it, "Nobu is an experience definitely worth having."
A photo of Roy's San Diego Waterfront restaurant
9. Roy's San Diego Waterfront
4.3
Awesome(3679)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 67 times today
At Roy's San Diego Waterfront, the art of steakhouse dining is elevated with a unique Pacific Rim twist, making it a must-visit culinary destination in Downtown San Diego. Situated beautifully on the water, this restaurant offers a dining experience that matches the stunning marina views. Guests rave about the "warm, juicy and delicious" filet mignon, and the attentive service that makes every visit memorable. With an ambiance that is both lively and elegant, Roy's combines "outstanding service" with "fantastic food," offering patrons a delightful blend of flavors and hospitality that keeps them coming back. Perfect for any occasion, Roy's promises an exceptional steakhouse experience.
A photo of Cloak + Petal restaurant
10. Cloak + Petal
4.6
Exceptional(968)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Little Italy
Booked 18 times today
Cloak + Petal in Little Italy, San Diego, offers an unparalleled experience in Japanese Speciality cuisine, where authenticity meets artistry in a stunningly unique setting. The restaurant's vibrant atmosphere, reminiscent of an abandoned Tokyo subway, provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying "the best sushi in SD," as one enthusiastic diner proclaimed. Guests rave about the meticulously prepared sushi, flavorful small plates, and delectable drinks that capture the essence of a traditional Japanese hanami. The decor, featuring Sakura trees and hip-hop tunes, complements the exquisite dishes, making Cloak + Petal a must-visit destination for those seeking a captivating Japanese dining experience.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Michael Mikey V
    San Diego •9 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Always a good time at AKA, the ambiance is quiet when you arrive but at 8pm the DJ starts to play, slowly the music gets loud and by 10pm it is like a night club atmosphere. Dancing girls near the DJ keep you pumped up during the end of dinner and you get up and dance by 11pm. The experience is Fun, happy and elegant. You would dress to impress at AKA. It seems the fun starts late but goes on all night. Also on a side note, the Filet Mignon potstickers are the best. I had the Chilean sea bass and my wife had the Black Cod and both dishes did not disappoint. This place is 10 out of 10. I had so much fun. Giancarlo is the host GM, he makes sure everything is running at peak performance. I love this place and highly recommend it. Mikey V
    More info
    AKA San DiegoPrice: Expensive• Asian• Downtown
    •
    3.9
  • KarinnVIP
    St. Louis •27 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Amazing food - taste and presentation got our taste buds popping! Friendly and excellent service! Definitely recommend this place!
    More info
    Full Moon Sushi Kitchen Bar and LoungePrice: Expensive• Sushi• Downtown
    •
    4.5
  • melissaVIP
    Los Angeles •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    The view, the view and the ambiance amazing! The food was delicious as well! I got the Wagyu and a roll… the service was fast and great customer service.
    More info
    LumiPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Downtown
    •
    4.6
  • JESSICA
    San Francisco Bay Area •36 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    We started with the Happy Hour mules, rock shrimp, tacos, kale salad and then moved to the regular dinner menu scallops, sushi rolls and dessert. The service and ambience was great. Very friendly staff and the food was served quickly. We live downtown and will definitely return. Highly recommend the kale salad, Hokkaido scallops, Bezerk sushi roll and churro ice cream.
    More info
    Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San DiegoPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Downtown
    •
    4.6
  • Alex
    San Diego •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 20, 2024
    Incredible food- salmon was spectacular. Awesome drinks as well and the staff was very attentive.
    More info
    Zama Restaurant & BarPrice: Expensive• Sushi• Downtown
    •
    4

Discover best Japanese restaurants in Downtown

Explore the exquisite world of Japanese cuisine right in the heart of San Diego, Downtown, where a variety of restaurants offer an authentic and diverse dining experience. From traditional sushi bars to innovative Japanese fusion eateries, each establishment boasts unique flavors and culinary techniques that cater to all palates. Guests can expect top-notch service, sophisticated atmospheres, and dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, Downtown San Diego's Japanese restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey. The dining scene here is vibrant and dynamic, reflecting the city's love for high-quality, diverse food options that satisfy both traditional and contemporary tastes. Discover the rich flavors of Japan in each bite, right here in Downtown San Diego, where every meal is a celebration of culinary artistry.

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