Best Restaurants in Japantown San Jose

Welcome to one of the most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods in San Jose, California – Japantown. Step into this historic district and experience a fusion of traditional Japanese culture and modern American amenities. The neighborhood is filled with boutiques, museums, art galleries, and most importantly, some of the best Japanese cuisines in the area. Whether you’re a sushi fanatic or a tempura lover, Japantown has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through some of the best restaurants in Japantown San Jose.

Top 5 Japanese Restaurants in Japantown San Jose 🍣

Sushi Maru 🍱

Sushi Maru is a popular sushi restaurant in Japantown San Jose that delivers a dining experience for all. The restaurant provides patrons with a comfortable and casual atmosphere, along with a wide variety of sushi rolls, bento boxes, and tempura dishes. The restaurant’s signature dish is their Dragon Roll, which includes eel, crab, and avocado. With an extensive menu and generous portions, Sushi Maru is the perfect place to indulge in delicious Japanese cuisine.

Gombei 🍲

Gombei is an authentic Japanese restaurant that has been serving delicious meals for over 30 years. The menu features traditional dishes such as Udon, Ramen, and Yakitori, along with a variety of Japanese beers and sake. Gombei is known for their freshly made noodles and savory soups, making it a local favorite for families and groups. If you’re looking for a hearty and authentic Japanese meal, Gombei is the place to be.

Kazoo 🍜

Kazoo is a popular Japanese restaurant that specializes in ramen. The restaurant offers a variety of ramen dishes, including vegetarian options. The dishes are made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients, which gives the dishes a unique flavor. Kazoo’s signature dish is their Tonkotsu Ramen, a dish made with pork broth, chashu pork, and a soft-boiled egg. If you’re a ramen lover, Kazoo is a must-visit restaurant in Japantown San Jose.

Mizu Sushi Bar & Grill 🍤

Mizu Sushi Bar & Grill is a trendy Japanese restaurant that offers a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri. The restaurant also offers an extensive menu of Japanese-inspired cocktails and beers. Mizu’s signature dish is their Spicy Tuna Roll, which includes fresh tuna and spicy mayo. The restaurant’s chic atmosphere and delicious food make it a go-to spot for a night out with friends.

Kaita Restaurant 🍱

Kaita Restaurant is a Japanese restaurant that specializes in bento boxes and sushi. The menu features a variety of sushi rolls, bento boxes, and teriyaki dishes. Kaita’s signature dish is their Unagi Bento, which includes grilled eel, rice, salad, and miso soup. The restaurant also offers vegetarian and gluten-free options. If you’re looking for a healthy and delicious meal, Kaita Restaurant is a great choice.

Other Notable Japanese Restaurants in Japantown San Jose 🍜

Yuki Sushi 🍱

If you’re in the mood for sushi, Yuki Sushi is a great option. The restaurant offers a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri. Yuki Sushi’s signature dish is their Rainbow Roll, which includes a variety of fresh fish, avocado, and cucumber. The restaurant also offers a happy hour menu and daily specials.

Santouka Ramen 🍜

Santouka Ramen is a ramen restaurant that offers a variety of ramen dishes, including their popular Tonkotsu Ramen. The restaurant uses high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods to create their delicious dishes. Santouka Ramen also offers vegetarian options and a variety of toppings to customize your ramen dish.

Amami Shima & Sushi 🍱

Amami Shima & Sushi offers a modern take on traditional Japanese cuisine. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and hot dishes. Amami Shima & Sushi’s signature dish is their Dragon Roll, which includes shrimp, crab, and avocado. The restaurant also offers a variety of Japanese-inspired cocktails and sake.

Ohjah Noodle House 🍜

Ohjah Noodle House is a noodle restaurant that offers a variety of noodle dishes, including their popular Tonkotsu Ramen. The restaurant also offers vegetarian options and daily specials. Ohjah Noodle House’s signature dish is their Spicy Miso Ramen, a dish made with pork broth, spicy miso paste, and vegetables.

Izakaya Goku 🍱

Izakaya Goku is a Japanese restaurant that offers a variety of small dishes and sharing plates. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of dishes, including sushi, sashimi, and grilled meats. Izakaya Goku’s signature dish is their Takoyaki, a dish made with octopus and batter. The restaurant also offers a variety of Japanese beers and sake.

Shuei-Do Manju Shop 🍩

If you have a sweet tooth, Shuei-Do Manju Shop is a must-visit spot in Japantown San Jose. The shop offers a variety of traditional Japanese sweets, including their signature dish, the Manju. Manju is a sweet pastry filled with red bean paste and is a popular dessert in Japan.

Nikkei Ramen 🍜

Nikkei Ramen is a ramen restaurant that offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of ramen dishes, including their popular Nikkei Ramen, a dish made with chicken broth, soy sauce, and Peruvian spices. Nikkei Ramen also offers vegetarian options and a variety of toppings to customize your ramen dish.

San Jose Tofu Co. 🍲

San Jose Tofu Co. is a tofu factory and restaurant that specializes in handmade tofu dishes. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of tofu dishes, including their popular Tofu Nabe, a hot pot dish made with tofu, vegetables, and meat. San Jose Tofu Co. also offers vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Mochi Cafe 🍡

Mochi Cafe is a dessert spot that offers a variety of Japanese sweets, including Mochi, a sweet rice cake filled with ice cream or other sweet fillings. The cafe also offers a variety of Japanese-style drinks, including matcha lattes and bubble tea.

Kogura Company 🍱

Kogura Company is a Japanese grocery store that offers a variety of fresh and authentic Japanese ingredients. The store also has a small cafe that serves a variety of Japanese dishes, including sushi rolls, bento boxes, and udon noodles.

Yumeya 🍣

Yumeya is a sushi restaurant that offers a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri. The restaurant’s menu features a variety of fresh and high-quality fish, making it a go-to spot for sushi lovers. Yumeya also offers vegetarian options and a happy hour menu.

Mitsuwa Marketplace 🍲

Mitsuwa Marketplace is a Japanese grocery store that also has a food court with a variety of Japanese food options. The food court features ramen, sushi, bento boxes, and other Japanese dishes. Mitsuwa Marketplace is a great spot to grab a quick and authentic Japanese meal.

FAQs 🍱

1. What is Japantown San Jose?

Japantown San Jose is a historic district in San Jose, California that is known for its rich Japanese culture and heritage.

2. What type of food can I expect in Japantown San Jose?

Japantown San Jose is known for its delicious Japanese cuisine, including sushi, ramen, udon, and bento boxes.

3. What are the best restaurants in Japantown San Jose?

Some of the best restaurants in Japantown San Jose include Sushi Maru, Gombei, Kazoo, Mizu Sushi Bar & Grill, and Kaita Restaurant.

4. Are there vegetarian options available in Japantown San Jose?

Yes, most restaurants in Japantown San Jose offer vegetarian options, including Gombei, Kazoo, and Kaita Restaurant.

5. Is Japantown San Jose family-friendly?

Yes, Japantown San Jose is a family-friendly neighborhood with plenty of activities and dining options for families.

6. What is the signature dish at Sushi Maru?

The signature dish at Sushi Maru is their Dragon Roll