Best Japanese Restaurants in San Mateo
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- CCarySan Francisco Bay Area •35 reviews5.0Dined 2 days agoYou can't go wrong with anything on the menu. Try all the skewers! Chef Sei does a wonderful jobMore infoIzakaya Ginji$$$$• Japanese• San Mateo•4.6
- BBriannaSan Francisco Bay Area •1 review5.0Dined 4 days agoGreat experience! Great servers and amazing Chef Brian! Will go back just for himMore infoBenihana - San Mateo, CA$$$$• Japanese• Foster City•4.2
- RRandySan Francisco Bay Area •11 reviews5.0Dined 5 days agoThis place is so much fun and the food is so delicious. I don't believe it is intended for groups larger than 4ea as there's just not that much room around the fire pit. Anyway, we always have a great time and our server Lily was awesome.More infoGyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Mateo, CA | Downtown (Central Park)$$$$• Japanese• San Mateo•4.6
- MMandeepSacramento / Sacramento Valley •1 review5.0Dined on Oct 17, 2026Food was absolutely amazing. I highly recommend this place. 12 out of 10!!More infoMokutanya Yakitori Charcoal$$$$• Japanese• Burlingame•4.7
- FFlorenceGoldSan Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews5.0Dined on Aug 17, 2026Our reservation got “upgraded” the karaoke private room, which worked out great because we had a toddler who can roam about freely without getting into other people’s way. Food was great and service was attentive. Would highly recommend large parties here and get the karaoke room.More infoKEITAN Binchotan Yakitori$$$$• Japanese• San Mateo•4.1
Discover best Japanese restaurants in San Mateo
Discover a slice of Japan in the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, Peninsula, San Mateo with our curated selection of Japanese restaurants. Each dining spot offers a unique take on traditional Japanese cuisine, ranging from yakiniku BBQ to the delicate art of sushi and vibrant izakaya-style dining. These establishments are celebrated for their commitment to authenticity, using fresh ingredients and traditional cooking techniques that promise a truly Japanese dining experience. The dining scene in San Mateo is diverse and vibrant, with Japanese cuisine holding a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Patrons consistently praise the high-quality food, inviting atmospheres, and exceptional service, making each visit a memorable one. Whether you're looking for a lively group meal or a quiet spot to enjoy refined flavors, San Mateo's Japanese restaurants cater to a variety of dining preferences and occasions. Enhance your culinary journey by exploring these top-rated Japanese eateries in San Mateo, where tradition meets contemporary flair in a welcoming setting. Each restaurant strives to offer a satisfying experience, ensuring that guests leave with plans to return. Explore the rich flavors and cultural delights of Japan right here in the Bay Area.