Best Japanese Restaurants in University City/Golden Triangle

18 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Pacific Catch - La Jolla restaurant

1. Pacific Catch - La Jolla

4.6

Exceptional(654)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • La Jolla

Booked 19 times today

Pacific Catch - La Jolla offers an unparalleled Pacific Rim dining experience that has quickly become a local favorite. Known for its "exceptional" seafood dishes, the restaurant consistently delivers fresh and flavorful meals that delight diners. The diverse menu, featuring everything from sushi and poke bowls to tacos and burgers, showcases the authentic essence of Pacific Rim cuisine, blending flavors and techniques from around the ocean. Guests frequently praise the "freshness and variety" of the seafood, noting that it never disappoints. With a welcoming ambiance and attentive service, Pacific Catch ensures a memorable dining experience every time. Highly recommended for seafood enthusiasts!

2. Takaramono sushi

4.8

Exceptional(48)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • La Jolla

Booked 28 times today

Takaramono Sushi in La Jolla is a haven for lovers of Japanese Speciality cuisine, offering a delightful blend of tradition and innovation in every dish. Guests rave about the "incredible ceviche" and the "outstanding specialty sashimi," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to freshness and quality. The A5 wagyu and bluefin tuna are "top notch," and the unique omakase experience is highly recommended. With its "exceptional food" and "creative, fresh, delicious" offerings, Takaramono stands out as a hidden gem in San Diego. The service is warm and attentive, ensuring every diner feels like a "special guest," making it a must-visit for sushi enthusiasts.

3. Arterra

4.8

Exceptional(438)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Del Mar

Booked 2 times 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 Ambrogio by Acquerello restaurant

4. Ambrogio by Acquerello

4.6

Exceptional(86)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • La Jolla

Ambrogio by Acquerello in La Jolla offers an exceptional Kaiseki dining experience, meticulously crafted by Michelin Star Chef Silvio Salmoiraghi. The restaurant's 8-course tasting menus are celebrated as "art on display," highlighting not only the creative fusion of Italian and Japanese cuisines but also the high-quality ingredients and exquisite presentation. Diners rave about the "superb service" and "incredible" food, which together make each visit a memorable occasion. The wine pairings, expertly curated to enhance each dish, add another layer of sophistication to the dining experience. This culinary gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable Kaiseki adventure.

5. Sushi Mori

4.7

Exceptional(40)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • La Jolla

Booked 3 times today

Nestled near La Jolla Shores Park, Sushi Mori in La Jolla is a delightful haven for Ramen enthusiasts. This restaurant, often described as a "neighborhood find," offers Ramen that is both authentic and exquisite. The menu showcases the chef's artistry in each bowl, crafted with fresh, seasonal ingredients that elevate the dining experience to new heights. Guests rave about the "delicious meal" and the "wonderful taste" of the dishes, which are prepared with precision and passion. The ambiance complements the culinary journey, making Sushi Mori a must-visit for those seeking exceptional Ramen in a charming setting.

6. Rakiraki Convoy

4.7

Exceptional(13)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Kearny Mesa

Booked 4 times today

For reservations of 3 or less please book through our sister restaurant The Yasai by RakiRaki Convoy!Experience the original RakiRaki Ramen experience at our first location located in Kearny Mesa—the epicenter of San Diego’s thriving Asian food scene. The lines out the door are worth the wait for Chef/owner, Junya Watanabe’s signature ramen recipes that blend the art of traditional ramen making with the highest quality ingredients available and a modern atmosphere. RakiRaki serves a wide variety of authentic ramen dishes and Japanese cuisine including tsukemen (dipping noodles), charcoal-fired yakitori, curry, ramen burgers, and specialty sushi rolls along with local craft beer and sake selections.

A photo of Benihana - San Diego, CA restaurant

7. Benihana - San Diego, CA

4.0

Excellent(7410)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Mission Valley

Booked 188 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.

8. El Sueño

4.1

Excellent(180)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Old Town

Booked 27 times today

El Sueño in Old Town, San Diego, redefines the Sushi experience with its exceptional quality and authentic flavors. Guests rave about the "amazing aguachile roll," highlighting the restaurant's unique twist on traditional Sushi. With a focus on fresh and high-quality ingredients, every dish promises a delightful culinary journey. The ambiance adds to the experience, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion. While the restaurant is celebrated for its Mexican fare, its Sushi offerings stand out, making it a must-visit for Sushi enthusiasts. El Sueño is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and craftsmanship in every bite.

9. Tako

4.2

Awesome(58)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Old Town

Booked 25 times today

Tako, located in the vibrant Old Town San Diego, offers an extraordinary Bar/Lounge/Bottle Service experience that patrons consistently rave about. This 21+ speakeasy is celebrated for its "cool vibes," "amazing drinks," and "unmatched atmosphere." Guests are enchanted by the lively ambiance, with a live DJ providing nonstop jams that set the perfect backdrop for an exciting night out. The staff goes "above and beyond" to ensure every visit is special, making it a perfect spot for any occasion. With its creative cocktails and fresh ingredients, Tako delivers an unforgettable experience that leaves guests eager to return.

10. Cannonball

4.5

Awesome(1154)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Mission Bay

Booked 28 times today

Cannonball, nestled in the heart of Mission Beach, serves up an extraordinary Pacific Rim dining experience that delights both locals and visitors alike. With its breathtaking oceanfront views and a vibrant atmosphere, this restaurant is a feast for the senses. Diners rave about the “delicious, fresh sushi” and the “exceptional” specialty rolls that highlight Cannonball's creative flair in Pacific Rim cuisine. The fusion of flavors is expertly crafted, ensuring each dish is a memorable culinary journey. Coupled with attentive service and a lively ambiance, Cannonball stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic Pacific Rim flavors with a California twist.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

N
NathanVIP
San Diego •2 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Takaramono was one of the best surprises I have had in San Diego. A hidden gem, small-hole in the wall sushi restaurant that is the perfect go-to for a special occasion. The service was personable and the food was remarkable. Overall, the experience dining here was memorable!
More info
Takaramono sushiPrice: Expensive• Sushi• La Jolla
•
4.8
M
Michelle
San Diego •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Raki Raki never fails, ramen is so good! Appetizers too!
More info
Rakiraki ConvoyPrice: Moderate• Sushi• Kearny Mesa
•
4.7
D
DanielVIP
San Diego •35 reviews
4.0
Dined 7 days ago
The food was the highlight of our visit. We ordered a grilled salmon poke, and we truly enjoyed it. However, the service left much to be desired. Lastly, the place could use a bit of a refresh—it’s clear it hasn’t been updated in quite a few years.
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Pacific Catch - La JollaPrice: Expensive• Seafood• La Jolla
•
4.6
S
Stephen
San Diego •22 reviews
5.0
Dined on Dec 13, 2024
This qualifies as a neighborhood find for us and we are luck to have it. The sushi is wonderful and the service is great. I would describe their menu as delicate; focusing on the wonderful taste of the fish and avoiding heavy sauces. The sauces are excellent, just applied sparingly but sufficiently. Highly recommend.
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Sushi MoriPrice: Expensive• Japanese• La Jolla
•
4.7
M
MatthewVIP
New York City •7 reviews
5.0
Dined on Nov 10, 2024
The food staff and service not only met but exceeded our expectations. The menu was creative and extremely fairly priced. From the chefs sushi tasting to the rib steak beyond what a hotel restaurant typically offers. Jose, Ken, Mindy & Chris went above and beyond to ensure world class service during our short stay. Can not wait to return.
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ArterraPrice: Moderate• American• Del Mar
•
4.8

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University City/Golden Triangle

Japanese

Best Japanese Restaurants in University City/Golden Triangle

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18 restaurants available nearby

1. Pacific Catch - La Jolla

2. Takaramono sushi

3. Arterra

4. Ambrogio by Acquerello

5. Sushi Mori

6. Rakiraki Convoy

7. Benihana - San Diego, CA

8. El Sueño

9. Tako

10. Cannonball

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