Best Japanese Restaurants in San Mateo Area 2025 Winners

Home » Best Food and Drink Businesses » Best Japanese Restaurants

Top Japanese Restaurants in the San Mateo Area

From fresh-cut sushi to steaming bowls of ramen, the Best of San Mateo contest honors the Japanese restaurants that locals love most—voted by the community for their exceptional ingredients, authentic flavors, and masterful technique. Whether you’re dining on omakase, enjoying casual izakaya bites, or picking up a favorite bento box, these top-rated spots serve some of the most beloved Japanese food in the Bay. Here are San Mateo’s must-try Japanese restaurants for every craving and occasion.

No Records Found

Sorry, no records were found. Please adjust your search criteria and try again.

Google Map Not Loaded

Sorry, unable to load Google Maps API.

  • 2025 Winner:
    Best Food and Drink Businesses

    Tokie’s Downtown

    Tokie's Downtown in San Mateo delivers comforting Japanese-American cuisine with a legacy dating back decades. This family-friendly spot is loved for its generous portions, fast service, and nostalgic feel. Reviewers consistently mention the reliable quality and wide selection of traditional dishes like teriyaki, tempura, and donburi.

    34 E 4th Ave
    San Mateo, California 94401
  • 2025 Top 5:
    Best Food and Drink Businesses

    Kajiken

    Kajiken in San Mateo is the first U.S. location of Japan's famous Mazesoba ramen chain. Specializing in brothless ramen bowls, Kajiken brings bold flavors and customizable toppings. Customers appreciate the authentic Japanese taste and unique concept, with Yelp reviews highlighting the umami-rich noodles and quick, friendly service.

    47 E 4th Ave
    San Mateo, California 94401
  • 2025 Top 5:
    Best Food and Drink Businesses

    Taishoken Ramen

    Taishoken Ramen in San Mateo is the U.S. branch of the legendary Tokyo-based ramen house known for inventing tsukemen (dipping ramen). Diners appreciate the deep, flavorful broth and chewy noodles. Yelp reviews highlight the authenticity, efficient service, and unique experience for ramen lovers.

    47 E 4th Ave
    San Mateo, California 94401
  • 2025 Top 5:
    Best Food and Drink Businesses

    Sapporo Rock & Roll Sushi

    Sapporo Rock & Roll Sushi blends sushi classics with a rock-themed vibe in San Mateo. This upbeat spot offers fun specialty rolls, bento boxes, and sake bombs. Customers love the high-energy staff, vibrant decor, and consistently tasty food, as noted in numerous positive Yelp reviews.

    2456 S El Camino Real
    San Mateo, California 94403
  • 2025 Top 5:
    Best Food and Drink Businesses

    Sushi Maruyama

    Sushi Maruyama in San Mateo is a hidden gem known for its traditional sushi experience, including omakase. Chef Maruyama's precision and respect for ingredients create an elevated dining experience. Patrons praise the fresh fish and intimate setting, making it a favorite for sushi aficionados on Yelp.

    279 Baldwin Ave
    San Mateo, California 94401
  • 2025 Top 5:
    Best Food and Drink Businesses

    Joy Sushi

    Joy Sushi in San Mateo serves up a wide range of traditional and contemporary sushi offerings in a cozy, casual atmosphere. With generous portions and creative rolls, it's a go-to spot for sushi lovers. Reviewers on Yelp rave about the freshness of the fish, fast service, and great value.

    30 S B St
    San Mateo, California 94401

Return to Home Page

Sushi, Ramen, Bento & More: The Best Japanese Cuisine in San Mateo

San Mateo’s Japanese dining scene offers a delicious balance of tradition and innovation, with restaurants ranging from high-end sushi counters to cozy ramen shops and bustling izakayas. Voted by locals in the Best of San Mateo contest, these establishments are celebrated for their attention to detail, quality ingredients, and warm hospitality.

 

🍣

Sushi, Sashimi & Omakase Experiences

 

Top Japanese restaurants in San Mateo are known for sushi crafted with care, offering:

 

  • Fresh sashimi, nigiri, and specialty rolls

  • Creative house rolls and classic maki combinations

  • Daily specials featuring seasonal fish flown in from Japan

  • Omakase tasting menus prepared by expert sushi chefs

  • Vegetarian and cooked sushi options

 

 

🍜

Ramen, Udon & Noodle Dishes

 

For comforting and flavorful bowls, locals love:

 

  • Tonkotsu, shoyu, miso, and spicy ramen varieties

  • Rich, slow-simmered broths with tender chashu pork

  • House-made noodles and perfectly jammy eggs

  • Udon and soba noodle dishes served hot or cold

 

 

🥢

Japanese Comfort Foods & Bento Boxes

 

Beyond sushi and noodles, San Mateo favorites also offer:

 

  • Teriyaki chicken, beef, and salmon plates

  • Tempura, katsu curry, and grilled yakitori skewers

  • Bento boxes with balanced portions of rice, protein, and sides

  • Gyoza dumplings, seaweed salad, edamame, and miso soup

 

 

🍶

Izakaya Bites & Drinks

 

Many Japanese restaurants double as izakayas—offering small plates and drinks ideal for sharing:

 

  • Takoyaki, karaage, agedashi tofu, and grilled mackerel

  • Japanese beer, sake, shochu, and whiskey

  • Cozy atmospheres perfect for date nights or casual group outings

 

 

🧑‍🍳

Authenticity, Atmosphere & Service

 

Locals love these top Japanese restaurants for their:

 

  • Beautifully presented dishes with attention to tradition

  • Friendly staff who offer explanations and recommendations

  • Clean, welcoming dining rooms and minimalist aesthetics

  • Options for takeout, delivery, and reservations

 

 

 

Explore the Best Japanese Restaurants in the San Mateo Area, as voted by local diners in the Best of San Mateocontest—and discover where to enjoy fresh sushi, flavorful ramen, and authentic Japanese cooking at its best.