Best Japanese Restaurants in South Pasadena

39 restaurants available nearby

1. Shiro Restaurant

4.9

Exceptional(1592)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Pasadena

Booked 5 times today

Shiro Restaurant in South Pasadena is a celebrated dining destination for Fusion / Eclectic cuisine, skillfully blending French, Asian, and California flavors. Esteemed by the Zagat Guide as the number one restaurant, Shiro's culinary excellence shines through its innovative menu. Patrons rave about signature dishes like the "fried catfish in ponzu sauce," hailed as a "showstopper" and the delightful "shrimp ravioli in shiitake butter sauce." The restaurant's commitment to using only the finest ingredients ensures each dish is a testament to quality and creativity. With over 35 years of consistently top-tier dining experiences, Shiro remains a cherished gem for both locals and visitors, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking exceptional Fusion / Eclectic cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

A photo of Alexander's Steakhouse - Pasadena restaurant

2. Alexander's Steakhouse - Pasadena

4.8

Exceptional(2253)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Pasadena

Booked 22 times today

Alexander's Steakhouse in Pasadena offers an exceptional dining experience that sets it apart as a premier destination for steak enthusiasts. Diners rave about its "perfectly balanced flavors" and "impeccable food," highlighting dishes like the blackened Szechuan numbing spice steak and the Australian wagyu bone-in ribeye. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident in its carefully curated menu, which includes dry-aged steaks and a variety of Wagyu options, attracting patrons who appreciate the "sublime" culinary craftsmanship. The full bar and extensive wine list complement the dining experience, making every visit memorable. Guests consistently praise the "stellar service," describing the staff as "warm" and "attentive," ensuring that each meal is not just eaten but celebrated.

3. KAVIAR Pasadena

4.6

Exceptional(559)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Pasadena

Booked 5 times today

At KAVIAR Pasadena, the art of Creative Japanese cuisine is taken to new heights, making it a must-visit destination for sushi aficionados and culinary adventurers alike. Located in the heart of Pasadena, this upscale kitchen is renowned for its exquisite sushi and masterful fusion creations. Patrons rave about the quality, with one guest exclaiming, "The Lemon Roll and drinks are so f#cking good," highlighting the restaurant's commitment to exceptional flavors and innovative dishes. The ambiance, described as "peaceful and cozy," enhances the dining experience, ensuring every visit is memorable. KAVIAR's dedication to excellence is evident in every detail, from the impeccable service to the meticulously crafted menu, making it a pinnacle of Creative Japanese cuisine.

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Pasadena, CA | Old Town restaurant

4. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Pasadena, CA | Old Town

4.4

Awesome(1646)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Pasadena

Booked 32 times today

At Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Pasadena, CA, the allure of authentic Japanese barbecue takes center stage, offering a culinary journey that's both delightful and unique. Celebrated as the "#1 Japanese BBQ brand in the world," this restaurant lets diners become chefs, grilling premium meats right at their tables. The quality of the barbecue is consistently praised, with reviews highlighting the "high quality meat" and the "amazing" experience. Standout dishes like the Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib are must-tries, ensuring every visit is both flavorful and memorable. Perfect for any gathering, Gyu-Kaku offers an atmosphere where "food and experience, a 10!" come together for a magical dining experience.

A photo of Sushi Roku - Pasadena restaurant

5. Sushi Roku - Pasadena

4.6

Exceptional(1212)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Pasadena

Booked 10 times today

Sushi Roku combines the finest, freshest fish from pristine waters around the globe with the kind of artistry that can only be provided by a mature sushi chef ensuring superlative traditional sushi, together with a splash of California innovation. Sushi Roku is a pioneer of contemporary sushi, incorporating diverse, non-traditional ingredients from Latin America (e.g. jalapeños) and Europe (e.g. olive oil) into its edible works of art. This unique culinary experience that bridges past and present is the result of an eagerness to embrace new ideas and a profound respect for tradition. Sushi Roku’s bold and diverse menu also offers an array of hot and cold specialty appetizers and an extensive selection of exotic entrées.

A photo of Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori & Men-Ya - Alhambra restaurant

6. Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori & Men-Ya - Alhambra

4.7

Exceptional(19)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Alhambra

Booked 4 times today

Looking for delicious and authentic Japanese dishes? Look no further than Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori & Men-Ya Alhambra. Located in the heart of Alhambra, our menu features a wide variety of traditional Japanese dishes, including our famous yakitori. Made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and grilled over binchotan (oak) charcoal, our yakitori has a unique smoky flavor that is sure to please your taste buds. We also have a variety of other Japanese dishes, including udon, ramen, and various Japanese grilled dishes and sides. No matter what you're in the mood for, Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori & Men-Ya Alhambra is the perfect destination. Our warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with our friendly staff, will make you feel right at home. So come and join us for a casual meal with friends and family. We can't wait to serve you!

A photo of Sushi Enya - Pasadena restaurant

7. Sushi Enya - Pasadena

4.6

Exceptional(83)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Pasadena

Sushi Enya in Pasadena is a beacon of sushi excellence, praised for its authenticity and extraordinary quality. Having honed his skills in Japan for over a decade, Chef Kimiyasu Enya brings an unparalleled mastery to each dish. Reviewers consistently celebrate the "delicate, fresh" sushi that "melts in your mouth," highlighting the nigiri as the "real stars of the show." The omakase experience is a standout, with each piece described as "one of the best in SoCal," and the signature hand rolls with toro, scallop, and truffle are noted as mind-blowing. Diners recommend sitting at the bar for personalized recommendations from the chefs, ensuring an unforgettable sushi adventure. Sushi Enya's commitment to quality and guest satisfaction makes it a must-visit for sushi lovers in Pasadena.

8. No Comment

4.3

Awesome(102)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Pasadena

A fusion of Mediterranean & Japanese Flare, Chef Edgar Ramos, has adapted the technique of joining these two culinary forces. Bringing forth innovative flavor combinations and unique menu offerings, such as the delectable Wagyu A5 Bites, topped with Sturgeon Caviar, Citrus Soy, Robatayaki Skewers, and our melt in your mouth 41 Day Dry-Aged Tomahawk. Hand crafted cocktails, decadent show stopping desserts, and live entertainment Thursday - Saturday nights, No Comment is Pasadena's newest and hottest resident.

9. Asayoru Maid Cafe

4.9

Exceptional(7)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Monterey Park

Booked 6 times today

Asayoru Maid Cafe is LA’s permanent brick and mortar maid cafe! Here, at Asayoru, you can…⭐️Experience high energy performances!⭐️Meet charming and talented maids! ⭐️Enjoy magical-tasting comfort foods! Be part of the moe moe magic!Welcome home, Masters and Princesses! ♡

10. Camelia

4.6

Exceptional(157)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Arts District

Booked 73 times today

Camelia, nestled in the vibrant Arts District of Downtown Los Angeles, is a French-Japanese bistro that masterfully blends contemporary French cuisine with subtle Japanese influences, creating a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Praised for its "innovative and creative" dishes, Camelia has quickly become a culinary gem in LA. Guests rave about the "exceptional food" and the beautifully designed space, making every visit a delight. Standout dishes include the striped bass with French succotash and the uni otoro toast bites, each described as a taste revelation. With its "friendly and competent service," Camelia ensures a top-notch dining adventure, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking to explore the best of contemporary French cuisine with a 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

D
David
Los Angeles •15 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
This experience lived up to expectations, which were high. For our golden wedding anniversary we wanted to have a special night. Alexander’s delivered exquisite food, service, and ambiance. The Chef’s Tasting proved the perfect order—no need for decision making, so we could focus on each other. And the dishes were phenomenal, each one better than the last. For an important occasion, Alexander’s can’t be beat.
More info
Alexander's Steakhouse - PasadenaPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Pasadena
•
4.8
D
Davidvip
Los Angeles •22 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
An overall excellent dining experience. The food and drinks were great. The waitstaff was excellent. We would definitely go there again.
More info
Sushi Roku - PasadenaPrice: Moderate• Sushi• Pasadena
•
4.6
M
Molly
Los Angeles •4 reviews
5.0
Dined 6 days ago
We have been coming to Shiro's for many years and, once again, they reminded us why this is our favorite "special occasion" restaurant. The food is always excellent -- tasty and beautifully presented. Last night we enjoyed 2 favorites, the salmon tartar tacos and the catfish. The staff is very friendly and attentive and the atmosphere is lovely including the soft jazz piano playing on the sound system.
More info
Shiro RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary French• Pasadena
•
4.9
M
Mari
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
Gyu Kaku will forever be one of my favorite restaurants to dine in not only for their food but for their exceptional service. If you’re looking for a good restaurant with good food and great service Gyu kaku is the perfect choice.
More info
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Pasadena, CA | Old TownPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Pasadena
•
4.4
E
Edmond
Los Angeles •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 2, 2024
Loved the food and the service I would definitely recommend this place.
More info
KAVIAR PasadenaPrice: Expensive• Sushi• Pasadena
•
4.6

Explore OpenTable

South Pasadena

Japanese

Best Japanese Restaurants in South Pasadena

Price

Regions

Neighborhoods

Top Rated

Dining Options

Seating Options

Award-winning

Accessibility

39 restaurants available nearby

1. Shiro Restaurant

2. Alexander's Steakhouse - Pasadena

3. KAVIAR Pasadena

4. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Pasadena, CA | Old Town

5. Sushi Roku - Pasadena

6. Shin-Sen-Gumi Yakitori & Men-Ya - Alhambra

7. Sushi Enya - Pasadena

8. No Comment

9. Asayoru Maid Cafe

10. Camelia

See what locals rave about

Explore OpenTable