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Best Japanese Restaurants in Santa Monica

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56 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Benihana - Santa Monica, CA restaurant
1. Benihana - Santa Monica, CA
4.1
Excellent(4072)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 55 times today
Welcome to Benihana, a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal tables in groups, where your personal chef will perform the ancient art of Teppanyaki. Watch as we slice and dice, preparing a meal that will dazzle your eyes as well taste buds, whether you choose mouth-watering steak, tender chicken or succulent seafood. You can also enjoy sushi prepared by a talented sushi chef and indulge in a specialty cocktail.
A photo of Sushi Roku - Santa Monica restaurant
2. Sushi Roku - Santa Monica
4.6
Exceptional(1141)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 12 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Santa Monica, Sushi Roku is a gem for aficionados of authentic Japanese cuisine with a twist of California innovation. Celebrated for its "superb sushi" and "exquisite dishes," this culinary pioneer delights with its artistic sushi rolls and exceptional sashimi, which are crafted from the freshest fish sourced globally. A favorite among locals and visitors, the restaurant offers a "unique culinary experience that bridges past and present," according to glowing reviews. Diners rave about the "amazing dinner with the most beautiful view of Santa Monica Beach," and commend the attentive service and diverse menu that includes delights like the "flavorful and fresh" spicy tuna tartare on crispy rice. Whether you're seeking a memorable dining experience or simply the finest sushi by the beach, Sushi Roku promises a fusion of tradition and innovation that is both inviting and indulgent.
A photo of Kappo Miyabi Santa Monica restaurant
3. Kappo Miyabi Santa Monica
4.5
Awesome(65)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 5 times today
Experience the essence of traditional Japanese cuisine at Kappo Miyabi in Santa Monica, a gem that masterfully combines elegance and culinary artistry. Renowned for its authentic approach, the restaurant emphasizes the Japanese art of kappo, where dishes are skillfully prepared using precise knife work and expertly applied heat. Diners rave about the exceptional omakase, describing it as "a perfect 10 out of 10" and praising its freshness, with remarks like "the sushi and sashimi melt in your mouth" and "the best I've had in my life!" Complete with a welcoming atmosphere and impeccable service, Kappo Miyabi not only serves food but provides a holistic Japanese dining experience that leaves guests planning their next visit. Join the multitude who have found their go-to spot for Japanese cuisine right in the heart of Santa Monica.
A photo of Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge restaurant
4. Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge
4.6
Exceptional(71)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 15 times today
Now Open! Edgemar is a Modern American neighborhood restaurant located in a historic Frank Gehry-designed building on Main Street in Santa Monica. We offer a unique dining experience that blends global and local influences across our menu, service, and design, all crafted to celebrate the spirit of our community and welcome visitors. Join us for a memorable meal in a one-of-a-kind setting that embodies the true essence of Santa Monica.
A photo of Wabi on Rose restaurant
5. Wabi on Rose
4.5
Awesome(1313)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Venice
Booked 16 times today
Wabi on Rose, located in the heart of Venice, is a beacon of authentic Japanese cuisine, blending traditional flavors with a Pacific Rim influence. Praised as "one of the best places for Sushi," this restaurant stands out for its "consistently fresh" sushi and innovative dishes like the moonlight roll and miso cod. Guests rave about the "melting" quality of the fish, highlighting the sushi as "better than Nobu." With a chic, contemporary design and a lively bar scene, Wabi on Rose not only offers a feast for the palate but also an invigorating experience for all senses. Whether you're in a swimsuit or a business suit, Wabi promises an extraordinary dining adventure, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking top-tier Japanese cuisine in Venice.
A photo of Belles Beach House restaurant
6. Belles Beach House
4.6
Exceptional(283)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Venice
Booked 31 times today
Belles Beach House in Venice, Los Angeles offers a unique dining experience, blending tropical Hawaiian vibes with authentic Japanese flair. This restaurant stands out for its meticulous incorporation of Japanese elements into its dishes, which are consistently praised for their deliciousness. Reviewers rave about the quality, with one noting, "Sushi was delicious!!!" and another celebrating the "spicy tuna roll was awesome!" The ambiance of Belles adds to its charm, described as a perfect mix of beachy and chic, making it a trendy spot in Venice Beach. Ideal for a laid-back yet sophisticated dining experience, Belles Beach House is a must-visit for aficionados of genuine Japanese cuisine, crafted with a creative twist.
A photo of Katsuya & SBar – Brentwood – SBE restaurant
7. Katsuya & SBar – Brentwood – SBE
4.7
Exceptional(2147)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Brentwood
Booked 51 times today
Katsuya & SBar in Brentwood, acclaimed by Travel + Leisure as one of the "Best New Restaurants" and celebrated by the Los Angeles Times as the "Best Sushi Restaurant" in Southern California, offers an unparalleled sushi dining experience. The synergy between Master Sushi Chef Katsuya Uechi's expertise and Philippe Starck's visionary design creates a sensational ambiance, making Katsuya a feast for the senses. Patrons consistently praise its "superb" sushi and sashimi platters, noting the "great quality" of dishes like the albacore onion and the innovative Katsuya roll. With glowing reviews about its "always excellent" sushi offerings and "outstanding" service, Katsuya stands out as a top destination for sushi aficionados seeking both quality and creativity in their dining experience.
A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Santa Monica, CA | 3rd Street Promenade restaurant
8. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Santa Monica, CA | 3rd Street Promenade
3.9
Excellent(194)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 14 times today
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Santa Monica offers a unique take on tapas/small plates with its interactive dining experience. This restaurant stands out for its tabletop smokeless grills where diners become chefs, cooking premium meats and enjoying a variety of delectable appetizers. Reviews rave about the quality and variety, with one diner noting, "Awesome happy hour choices! Meat is good quality and there are a ton of sides to choose from." The authentic yakiniku experience is complemented by an array of sides like garlic noodles and kimchi cucumber salad, making every meal a delightful culinary adventure. Whether for a family gathering or a fun night out, Gyu-Kaku provides an unforgettable dining experience right in the heart of Santa Monica.
A photo of Ōwa restaurant
9. Ōwa
4.5
Awesome(43)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Venice
Booked 13 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Venice, Los Angeles, Ōwa offers an exceptional sushi experience that locals and visitors alike rave about. Renowned for its modern twist on sushi favorites, Ōwa prides itself on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that elevate each dish to perfection. Reviewers consistently highlight the freshness of the sushi, with one noting it's the "best sushi I have had." The restaurant's ambiance, coupled with its artful culinary creations, makes every meal memorable. Ōwa's dedication to quality is evident, as another diner exclaimed, "The rolls have so much flavor and were so fresh." Whether you're a sushi aficionado or new to Japanese cuisine, Ōwa promises an unforgettable dining experience right in the heart of Venice.
A photo of Hermanito restaurant
10. Hermanito
4.8
Exceptional(508)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • West Los Angeles
Booked 23 times today
Hermanito, nestled in the vibrant heart of West Los Angeles, is not just a restaurant but a cocktail haven that captures the essence of the neighborhood's Japanese heritage with a twist of Mexican flair. The bar at Hermanito stands out for its innovative approach to cocktails, blending classic Mexican influences with subtle Japanese touches, creating a unique and delightful experience for its patrons. Guests rave about the "yummy and pretty looking cocktails" and the exceptional service, highlighting the attention to detail and creativity in each drink. One visitor exclaimed about a special cocktail, a "naked and famous," recommended by their attentive server, which was unlike anything they had tried before. Hermanito's cocktail bar is a destination for those seeking not just a drink, but a story in every sip.

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Discover best Japanese restaurants in Santa Monica

Explore the vibrant Japanese dining scene in Santa Monica, Los Angeles, where authenticity and culinary innovation meet. From the intimate settings of traditional Izakayas to the interactive experiences of cooking your meal right at your table, Santa Monica offers a diverse range of Japanese restaurants that cater to all tastes. Whether you're in the mood for expertly grilled BBQ, freshly prepared sushi, or comforting ramen, each restaurant in this locale promises a unique and satisfying dining experience. Patrons consistently praise the high-quality ingredients, authentic flavors, and exceptional service found at these establishments. Additionally, the warm and inviting atmospheres make each dining experience truly memorable. Immerse yourself in Santa Monica's Japanese culinary offerings for a taste of Tokyo right in the heart of the Westside. Whether you are a local or a visitor, these Japanese restaurants are sure to enrich your culinary journey with their distinct and delightful dishes.

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