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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(1736)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 42 times today
At Lionfish Restaurant, situated in the heart of downtown San Diego, seafood lovers revel in a culinary experience that is as delightful as it is authentic. This modern sushi and seafood haven, led by the talented local chef JoJo Ruiz, showcases a passion for fresh-catch cuisine that’s evident in every dish. Enthusiastic diners rave about the “best sushi and sashimi I have ever had! Melts in your mouth!” and commend the innovative, delicious dishes like the "Angry Fish," described as “the BEST fish I’ve ever had.” Lionfish not only excels in creating mouthwatering seafood but also provides an atmosphere and service that consistently exceed expectations. Whether it’s celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a night out, Lionfish is a must-visit for exceptional seafood in San Diego.
A photo of Lumi restaurant
2. Lumi
4.6
Exceptional(687)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 60 times today
At Lumi, nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego, the essence of authentic Japanese cuisine is elevated by the innovative genius of celebrity chef Akira Back. This upscale rooftop gem dazzles with its "exceptional service and ambiance," perfectly complementing an "interesting sushi/Japanese/fusion menu" that leaves patrons raving about its uniqueness and quality. Guests consistently laud the "amazing food" from the "tuna pizza" to the "Seabass roll," each dish crafted to perfection. With its combination of a "super cool vibe" and expertly curated flavors, Lumi is a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier Japanese dining experience.
A photo of Full Moon Sushi Kitchen Bar and Lounge restaurant
3. Full Moon Sushi Kitchen Bar and Lounge
4.4
Awesome(399)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 29 times today
At Full Moon Sushi Kitchen Bar and Lounge in Downtown San Diego, diners are treated to a seafood experience that is as delightful as it is unforgettable. Renowned for its fresh, flavor-packed offerings, Full Moon is praised for its "absolutely flavorful" sushi and sashimi, making it a must-visit for seafood connoisseurs. The live sea urchin and oysters come highly recommended, celebrated for their freshness and quality. Patrons consistently rave about the "top notch sushi" and the exceptional service, emphasizing the attentive and friendly staff. The ambiance, combined with the culinary prowess of Chef Sung and his team, ensures every visit is a memorable gastronomic journey. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Full Moon promises an unmatched sushi experience right in the heart of the vibrant Gaslamp District.
A photo of AKA San Diego restaurant
4. AKA San Diego
new
3.8
Excellent(59)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 30 times today
Located in the bustling heart of Gaslamp, San Diego, AKA is more than just a restaurant. It’s a destination where exceptional food, craft cocktails, and an energetic nightlife converge. With a menu curated by renowned Chef Takuya Kudo, AKA offers a captivating fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai culinary traditions, all crafted with fresh ingredients and innovative techniques. The venue features a vibrant atmosphere complemented by artisanal craft cocktails from mixologist Gerardo Bedolla and striking design by Cassandra Builer. AKA welcomes guests to indulge in its exquisite dishes while enjoying electrifying entertainment. Committed to transforming the dining and nightlife scene in San Diego, AKA offers a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone looking to savor gourmet cuisine, sip on craft cocktails, and dance the night away.
A photo of Zama Restaurant & Bar restaurant
5. Zama Restaurant & Bar
4.0
Excellent(295)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 28 times today
Zama Restaurant & Bar in vibrant downtown San Diego expertly fuses Latin American flavors with exquisite Asian culinary techniques, creating a unique dining experience that stands out in the city's food scene. Esteemed Chef Tayuka Kudo, formerly of Nobu and Lumi, brings authenticity and excellence to Zama's Japanese-inspired sushi bar, ensuring every dish is a masterpiece. Patrons rave about the "incredible" food and "fantastic" ambiance, highlighting the Asian fusion dishes that are "cooked to perfection." Whether it’s the creatively presented ceviche or the perfectly cooked King salmon, Zama promises an unforgettable meal that brilliantly showcases the best of Asian cuisine with a Latin twist.
A photo of Bang on 5th restaurant
6. Bang on 5th
3.7
Very Good(15)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 5 times today
Bang on 5th, nestled in the vibrant heart of San Diego's Gaslamp Quarter, is a premier destination for exceptional Bar / Lounge / Bottle Service experiences. This venue, celebrated for its Asian-fusion cuisine and sushi, truly shines with its bar offerings. Patrons rave about the "interesting Nippon inspired drinks" and the well-crafted cocktails that complement the lively atmosphere, enhanced by the largest disco ball on the west coast and tunes from a live DJ. Awarded the Opentable Diner’s Choice from 2021-2023, Bang on 5th guarantees a memorable outing with its "great music and vibe" and "powerful but balanced" drinks, making every visit a delightful escape to downtown Tokyo.
A photo of Downtown Sushi restaurant
7. Downtown Sushi
4.5
Awesome(71)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 4 times today
Downtown Sushi in the vibrant heart of San Diego is a paradise for sushi lovers. Chef Andy’s creative genius shines through in every dish, especially noted in crowd favorites like the Love Roll, Fire Roll, and Tower Roll. Patrons rave about the freshness and quality, claiming it’s the best sushi in the area. One diner enthused, “The best sushi in downtown you won’t regret it fresh fish I highly recommend my favorite specialty roll sky love gas lamp.” Another declared, “It's the best rated sushi spot in the area for a reason. Everything was fantastic.” Whether it’s the inventive rolls or the premium sashimi, Downtown Sushi consistently delivers an exceptional dining experience that keeps guests returning for more.
A photo of Nobu San Diego restaurant
8. Nobu San Diego
4.6
Exceptional(3749)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 67 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego, Nobu continues to dazzle patrons with its exceptional "New Style" Japanese cuisine. Known for its sushi, Nobu San Diego stands out for its quality, creativity, and the use of fresh ingredients. Reviewers rave about the sushi, describing it as "delicious" and noting the "impeccable service and ambiance." A standout dish frequently mentioned is the Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeno, celebrated for its perfect balance and innovative flavor profile. As one review puts it, "Every single dish was undoubtedly immaculate," emphasizing the consistent excellence and culinary mastery that Nobu San Diego delivers, making it a must-visit destination for sushi lovers.
A photo of Roy's San Diego Waterfront restaurant
9. Roy's San Diego Waterfront
4.3
Awesome(3671)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown
Booked 40 times today
At Roy's San Diego Waterfront, the seafood isn't just a dish; it's a culinary adventure. Nestled in the heart of Downtown San Diego at the Marriott Hotel and Marina, Roy's offers a breathtaking view of the marina that complements its exceptional seafood offerings. Renowned for blending classic techniques with adventurous Pacific Rim flavors, the restaurant has been a beacon of culinary innovation since its inception. Guests rave about dishes like the "Chilean sea bass," described as "outstanding," and the "lobster bisque" hailed as "the best anywhere." The freshness of the seafood is a testament to the care and passion that goes into each dish, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience that keeps diners returning for more. Whether it's the "perfectly cooked" scallops or the praised "Canoe Appetizer," each bite is a celebration of quality and flavor at Roy's.
A photo of Cloak + Petal restaurant
10. Cloak + Petal
4.6
Exceptional(965)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Little Italy
Booked 71 times today
At Cloak + Petal, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy in San Diego, sushi isn't just food; it's an art form. This stylish restaurant offers a unique twist on traditional sushi, creating a dining experience that's both authentic and innovative. The ambiance, reminiscent of an abandoned Tokyo subway, enhances each meal, making it unforgettable. Guests rave about the sushi's freshness and quality, with one diner exclaiming, "the sushi was great and the special rolls were mind blowing." The restaurant's commitment to quality and atmosphere has made it a must-visit spot in San Diego, ensuring that each visit is not only a meal but a memorable event.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • JESSICA
    San Francisco Bay Area •36 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day 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
  • ZainahVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •17 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Amazing as always!!! Best tuna truffle pizza and wagyu nigiri in town
    More info
    LumiPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Downtown
    •
    4.6
  • Juliana
    San Diego •1 review
    4.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Foods good overpriced …atmosphere cheap tacky… foods tasted very good… service is ok not too professional..
    More info
    Zama Restaurant & BarPrice: Expensive• Sushi• Downtown
    •
    4
  • Marc
    Las Vegas •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Food is very good. Not inexpensive. Service was very good until one server forgot to put in our second order so we were forgotten. Th other server made an adjustment on our bill without our asking and tried to make things right in that regard. I recommend this restaurant, just not as perfect as it could have been.
    More info
    Full Moon Sushi Kitchen Bar and LoungePrice: Expensive• Sushi• Downtown
    •
    4.4
  • JoAnn
    San Diego •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Dec 21, 2024
    Great restaurant. Me and my husband celebrated our anniversary here and we had a great time. The food and drinks were amazing. Service and ambiance can’t complain. At the end of our meal they treated us with a celebratory song complete with a cake and sparkling candles which was really nice. This restaurant is underrated.
    More info
    AKA San DiegoPrice: Expensive• Asian• Downtown
    •
    3.8

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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