Best Upscale Japanese Restaurants in San Jose | Upscale Japanese Food

30 restaurants in Best Upscale Japanese Restaurants in San Jose | Upscale Japanese Food

• Tanto — Japanese · rated 4/5: Bathed in the warm, amber glow of a custom wood-fire grill, this stylish haunt invites guests into a space where the intoxicating aroma of smoldering embers and searing proteins sets the stage for a soulful feast. Argentinian-inspired plates celebrate the primal art of open-flame cooking, transforming premium cuts of meat and vibrant seasonal produce into charred, flavor-forward masterpieces designed for sharing. The dining room hums with a sophisticated yet lively energy, making every visit feel like a spirited celebration of fire, smoke, and exceptional wine.
• Miyakko — iyakko" or "M · rated 4/5: Miyakko invites diners into a serene sanctuary where the delicate art of Japanese tradition is celebrated through pristine slices of sashimi and the buttery, briny indulgence of ocean-fresh uni. Each visit centers on the rhythmic harmony of traditional set meals, offering a soulful mosaic of seasonal flavors that capture the quiet elegance of a time-honored culinary ritual.
• MODO Hawaii — Japanese · rated 4/5: This vibrant destination reimagines the classic donut through a playful Hawaiian lens, where the irresistible aroma of warm sugar leads guests to rows of colorful, ring-of-pearls treats. Each bite offers a signature "mochi-mochi" chew—a delightful contrast of a crisp, glazed exterior and a light, bouncy center infused with tropical flavors like earthy matcha or tangy lilikoi. It is a celebration of texture and island inspiration, turning a simple snack into a hand-crafted experience that captures the breezy, sweet spirit of the Pacific.
• Sanraku Sushi — Japanese · rated 4/5: Sanraku Sushi invites guests into a serene space where the rhythmic pulse of the sushi bar sets the stage for beautifully orchestrated platters of jewel-toned nigiri and artfully rolled maki. Vibrant vegetable arrangements and grand combo assortments arrive as edible masterpieces, offering a communal dining experience that balances the delicate freshness of the sea with the crisp, clean flavors of the garden.
• Goku Sushi — Japanese · rated 4/5: Goku Sushi invites diners into a bright, modern sanctuary where the vibrant colors of the ocean and garden take center stage in every thoughtfully composed dish. The kitchen celebrates a refreshing, light-filled approach to Japanese cuisine, layering buttery slices of sashimi and seared tuna tataki over crisp greens, tropical mango, and velvet-smooth avocado. Each plate is a masterclass in balance, pairing the zesty tang of sunomono with the delicate textures of the sea to create a dining experience that feels both revitalizing and deeply satisfying.
• Ramen Nagi — Japanese · rated 4/5: This high-energy noodle house pulses with the steam of simmering cauldrons and the vibrant spirit of Tokyo, inviting guests to personalize their perfect bowl from a colorful palette of signature broths. From the velvet richness of the Original King to the bold, ink-dark depths of the Black King, each bowl offers a symphony of flavors paired perfectly with golden-crisp gyoza and the nostalgic pop of a chilled Ramune.
• Yuki Sushi — Japanese · rated 4/5: Yuki Sushi welcomes guests into a lively, intimate sanctuary where the air is thick with the savory scent of charred shishito peppers and garlic-chili aromatics. The kitchen excels in a symphony of textures, from the delicate crunch of golden-fried soft-shell crab and creamy croquettes to the melt-in-your-mouth richness of salt-grilled hamachi kama. Each visit offers a soulful exploration of Japanese comfort, where steaming bowls of seafood soup and artfully prepared small plates create a warm, communal dining experience.
• Clover Bakery & Cafe — Japanese · rated 4/5: Sunlight streams through the windows of this charming neighborhood haunt, where the sweet perfume of golden-brown pastries and freshly ground espresso creates an immediate sense of home. Glass cases brim with delicate, flaky croissants and artfully decorated cakes, inviting guests to linger over a quiet morning brew or share a decadent treat within the bright, airy sanctuary. Every bite offers a comforting pause from the outside world, celebrating the simple, artisanal joy of a perfectly baked crust and a warm, steaming mug.
• Akita Sushi — Japanese · rated 4/5: Soft light glows over intimate tables where the gentle hiss of pan-seared gyoza and the vibrant green of sea-salted edamame set the stage for a relaxed, authentic Japanese meal. The experience centers on artfully arranged bento boxes that offer a harmonious trio of flavors, inviting diners to linger over a curated selection of textures and tastes in a serene neighborhood setting.
• Kamakura — Japanese · rated 3/5: Stepping into Kamakura feels like discovering a hidden corner of Japan, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of charred yakitori and the inviting warmth of a bustling kitchen. Golden-hued tempura and delicate, pan-seared gyoza share the table with briny baked mussels and silken agedashi tofu, creating a communal dining experience defined by bold flavors and meticulous preparation. Each dish serves as a testament to the art of the small plate, inviting guests to linger over vibrant textures and traditional techniques in a space that balances modern energy with timeless charm.
• Kokolo Donburi Japanese Rice Bowl — Japanese · rated 3/5: Step into a lively haven of Japanese comfort where the steam from perfectly seasoned rice bowls carries the savory aroma of caramelized meats and delicate dashi. Each donburi is a carefully composed mosaic of textures, layering tender proteins and vibrant vegetables over a warm bed of grains, all brought together by the rich depth of house-made sauces. This inviting space elevates the humble rice bowl into a soulful dining experience that feels both contemporary and deeply rooted in tradition.
• Seto Restaurant — Japanese: Seto Restaurant invites guests into a serene sanctuary where the rhythmic precision of the sushi counter meets an atmosphere of understated elegance and warm hospitality. The air carries the delicate scent of toasted nori and seasoned vinegar, setting the stage for vibrant plates of ocean-fresh sashimi and golden, lace-like tempura that celebrate the purity of seasonal ingredients. It is a destination where every detail, from the hand-poured sake to the artful presentation, transforms a meal into a graceful exploration of Japanese culinary tradition.
• Orenchi Ramen — Japanese: The air hums with the comforting aroma of rich, creamy tonkotsu broth, inviting guests into a bustling space where every bowl is a carefully constructed work of culinary art. Springy house-made noodles and melt-in-your-mouth pork belly swim in deeply layered soups, creating a sensory-rich retreat that captures the heart and soul of authentic Japanese comfort food.
• Gochi Japanese Fusion Tapas — Japanese: This vibrant social hub pulses with energy, inviting guests to linger over a kaleidoscope of inventive small plates that bridge the gap between East and West. Effervescent fruit sours infused with lychee and pomegranate sparkle alongside chilled Calpico, providing a refreshing, citrusy counterpoint to the bold, savory depths of the kitchen’s creative fusion tapas. It is a place where the playful spirit of a modern izakaya meets sophisticated flair, creating an atmosphere perfect for spirited toasts and shared culinary discoveries.
• Rokko — Japanese: Rokko invites diners into a warm, inviting space where the comforting aroma of ginger-infused pork and the satisfying sizzle of golden-fried tonkatsu set the stage for a soulful Japanese feast. Crisp tempura and delicate agedashi tofu provide a textural prelude to salt-grilled delicacies and vibrant bowls of mentai salmon ikura noodles, each plate reflecting a masterful balance of tradition and technique. It is a neighborhood sanctuary where the crackle of chicken karaage and the rich glaze of salmon teriyaki create an atmosphere of effortless, authentic charm.
• One Pot Shabu Shabu — Japanese: Steam rises from bubbling pots at this interactive haven, where the communal ritual of shabu-shabu transforms premium ingredients into a deeply personal and soul-warming feast. Velvety ribbons of A5 Wagyu and marbled Kurobuta pork melt into savory broths, complemented by the crisp snap of edamame and the golden, savory crunch of takoyaki. It is a space where the art of the slow simmer meets the indulgence of world-class meats, creating a rhythmic dining experience that celebrates both shared conversation and exquisite flavor.
• Myzen Ramen — Japanese: Myzen Ramen invites guests into a serene, light-filled space where the art of the Japanese small plate takes center stage alongside steaming bowls of comfort. The experience begins with a refreshing parade of chilled delicacies like silken eggplant and snap-crisp pickled cucumbers, perfectly balanced by the golden crunch of takoyaki and savory, pan-fried gyoza. It is a destination where traditional flavors are refined with a modern touch, creating a harmonious meal that nourishes both the palate and the spirit.
• Harumi Sushi — Japanese: Vibrant colors and bold flavors take center stage at this lively sushi destination, where the artistry of the sushi bar is showcased through imaginative creations like the fiery Firecracker and the elegantly floral Cherry Blossom roll. The air hums with energy as chefs masterfully slice pristine cuts for elaborate sashimi platters, while steaming bowls of udon offer a comforting, savory warmth that perfectly balances the chilled, inventive sushi offerings.
• Uzumakiya Udon Izakaya — Japanese: This spirited izakaya hums with the convivial energy of a neighborhood haunt, where the air is perfumed by simmering dashi and the joyful clinking of sake glasses. Hand-crafted udon noodles—thick, chewy, and comforting—anchor a vibrant collection of shared plates and golden tempura, creating a soulful sanctuary perfect for both a quick, warming bowl and a long night of spirited toasts.
• Gaku Yakitori — Japanese: The air at Gaku Yakitori is thick with the intoxicating aroma of charcoal smoke, where skewers of succulent chicken thigh and tender beef tongue sizzle over glowing embers to achieve a perfect, savory char. This intimate hideaway invites diners to savor the bold heat of spicy miso pork belly and the comforting crunch of golden-crusted yaki onigiri, creating a soulful experience that celebrates the timeless, fire-kissed artistry of the Japanese grill.
• Dan Izakaya Restaurant — Japanese: Dan Izakaya welcomes guests into a lively, intimate space where the rhythmic clinking of glasses meets the savory steam rising from bowls of umami-rich dashi. The experience centers on a curated selection of Japanese tapas, featuring delicate steamed gyoza and silken agedashi tofu that offer a masterful balance of textures and deep, comforting flavors. It is a soulful destination for shared plates and spirited conversation, where every dish captures the essence of traditional izakaya culture with a refined, welcoming touch.
• Sumiya Bento — Japanese: Step into a serene haven where the smoky aroma of charcoal-grilled skewers mingles with the comforting warmth of steaming udon bowls. Artfully assembled bento boxes offer a harmonious balance of textures and flavors, from the rich, savory char of grilled saba to the delicate, dashi-soaked silkiness of nasu agebitashi. Each curated tray invites a moment of mindful indulgence, celebrating the timeless craft of Japanese comfort food in every crisp bite of golden karaage and savory sip of broth.
• Sushi Confidential — Japanese: Vibrant energy meets culinary playfulness at this modern haunt, where the air is thick with the savory aroma of salt-and-pepper calamari and the chatter of a lively crowd. Artfully plated "bombs" of fresh salmon and delicate hamachi spoons offer bursts of umami, while crispy poke tacos and pillowy mushroom bao buns showcase a bold fusion of textures and global influences. The experience is a spirited celebration of inventive flavors, served in a chic setting that feels like a well-kept neighborhood secret.
• Okayama — Japanese: Soft amber light glows against polished cedar accents, creating a serene sanctuary where the rhythmic tap of a chef’s knife sets the tempo for an evening of refined artistry. Each plate arrives as a vibrant canvas, showcasing the pristine clarity of ocean-fresh seafood and the delicate balance of seasonal ingredients prepared with meticulous precision. Whether seated at the intimate sushi bar or tucked into a quiet corner, guests are treated to a sensory journey that honors tradition while embracing a modern, sophisticated flair.
• Sushi Maru — Japanese: Sushi Maru invites diners into a lively space where the golden glow of perfectly fried delicacies and the irresistible aroma of ginger-soy marinades set the stage for a soulful Japanese feast. From the delicate, airy crunch of vegetable kakiage to the succulent snap of panko-crusted seafood, each dish is a masterclass in the balance of texture and heat. It is a haven for those seeking the comforting embrace of traditional small plates, where every bite offers a satisfying symphony of crisp, light batter and tender, flavorful centers.
• Spoonfish Poke — Japanese: This sun-drenched sanctuary invites diners to craft their own edible masterpieces, where jewel-toned cubes of pristine seafood meet a kaleidoscope of crisp, garden-fresh toppings. The air hums with a breezy energy as umami-rich glazes and zesty citrus notes harmonize in every bowl, delivering a vibrant, Pacific-inspired escape that feels both nourishing and indulgent.
• Kaita — Japanese: This intimate Japanese gem welcomes guests into a warm, wood-clad sanctuary where the comforting steam of savory udon bowls mingles with the delicate aroma of seasoned sushi rice. Behind the modest counter, skilled hands transform pristine cuts of fish into elegant sashimi, creating a soulful dining experience that feels like a cherished neighborhood secret.
• Shabu Time — Japanese: Billowing clouds of savory steam rise from every table at this interactive sanctuary, where the rhythmic "swish-swish" of communal hot pots sets the tempo for a lively, social evening. Guests artfully dip paper-thin ribbons of premium marbled beef and vibrant seasonal greens into bubbling, aromatic broths, crafting a deeply personal and soul-warming feast that celebrates the simple joy of a shared meal.
• House of Genji — Japanese: The air crackles with energy and the rhythmic clinking of spatulas as skilled chefs transform communal tables into vibrant stages for culinary theater. Sizzling cuts of steak and succulent seafood are seared to perfection amidst plumes of savory steam, filling the room with the irresistible aroma of toasted garlic and ginger. It is a place where the art of the flame meets the joy of shared celebration, inviting guests to lose themselves in a choreographed dance of fire, flavor, and tradition.
• Poke Poke Fish Bar — Japanese: Sunlight dances across a bright, coastal-inspired space where the vibrant colors of the Pacific meet a modern, airy aesthetic. Glistening cubes of sushi-grade fish are tossed with crisp, garden-fresh toppings and zesty house-made glazes, creating a kaleidoscope of textures and bold, umami-rich flavors in every bowl. It is a refreshing urban oasis that captures the spirit of the islands, offering a customizable journey through clean, bright ingredients that feel both indulgent and revitalizing.