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Best Japanese Restaurants in Santa Monica

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56 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Benihana - Santa Monica, CA restaurant
4.3
Awesome(4138)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 41 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
4.9
Exceptional(1140)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 12 times today
Sushi Roku in Santa Monica offers an unparalleled sushi experience that melds authentic Japanese tradition with innovative flair. Renowned for its "superb sushi" and "exceptional quality," diners rave about the meticulously crafted rolls and the exquisite selection of fish sourced from pristine waters globally. The unique blend of traditional flavors with contemporary ingredients like jalapeños and olive oil creates a "memorable culinary adventure." The restaurant's elegant ambiance, combined with its excellent service, makes it ideal for any occasion, whether a "lively gathering" or an intimate dinner. Sushi Roku stands out as a pioneer of contemporary sushi, ensuring every visit is extraordinary.
A photo of Kappo Miyabi Santa Monica restaurant
4.0
Excellent(73)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 6 times today
Kappo Miyabi Santa Monica offers an exquisite dive into authentic Japanese Speciality cuisine, where "the presentation of the food is a work of art in itself." Located in the heart of Santa Monica, this restaurant stands out with its unique kappo-style cooking, blending the elegance of knife and fire techniques. The menu is a tantalizing journey through flavors, with "fresh sushi that is some of the best we've had," and dishes that are "bursting with authentic flavors." Guests rave about the impeccable service, highlighting the attentive and knowledgeable staff. Whether for an intimate date or a family gathering, Kappo Miyabi promises an unforgettable culinary experience.
A photo of Wabi on Rose restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(1334)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Venice
Booked 51 times today
Wabi on Rose is a culinary gem nestled in the heart of Venice, renowned for its exquisite Pacific Rim cuisine. This vibrant spot artfully combines fresh-caught sushi with a live fire grill, offering a menu that's "consistently fresh" and bursting with "well-balanced flavors." The restaurant's ambiance is both "sexy" and "lively," making it perfect for anything from a romantic dinner to a festive gathering. Diners rave about the "moonlight roll" and "hot sake," emphasizing the authentic taste and quality of each dish. With a friendly and efficient staff, Wabi on Rose guarantees an unforgettable dining experience that leaves patrons eager to return.
A photo of Belles Beach House restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(346)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Venice
Booked 74 times today
Belles Beach House in Venice, Los Angeles, offers a delightful fusion of Hawaiian-inspired dishes with authentic Japanese touches that transport diners to a tropical paradise. The vibrant atmosphere and "delicious sushi" are consistently praised, with standout dishes like the spicy tuna on rice being described as "special" and a must-try. The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident in every bite, with patrons raving that it’s "high grade, delicious and perfect variety of food." Whether you're savoring the crispy rice or the inventive cocktails, Belles Beach House provides an "absolutely amazing" dining experience that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine.
A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - Santa Monica, CA | 3rd Street Promenade restaurant
4.2
Awesome(205)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 14 times today
Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ in Santa Monica offers an unparalleled barbecue experience, blending authentic Japanese yakiniku with top-tier service and atmosphere. Enthusiastic diners rave about the "exceptional quality of meat," with the Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib being standout selections. The interactive grilling experience, where "you cook most of your own food," promises a unique dining adventure while the knowledgeable staff ensures guidance when needed. Located on the vibrant 3rd Street Promenade, Gyu-Kaku is not just a meal, but a "magical dining experience" perfect for gatherings or intimate evenings, making it a must-visit barbecue destination.
A photo of Katsuya & SBar – Brentwood – SBE restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2172)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Brentwood
Booked 54 times today
Nestled in the heart of Brentwood, Katsuya & SBar stands as a beacon of exceptional Sushi cuisine, celebrated by Travel + Leisure as one of the "Best New Restaurants." With Master Sushi Chef Katsuya Uechi at the helm, each dish is a masterful symphony of Japanese flavors artfully adapted for the American palate. Diners rave about the "great quality sushi" and "excellent service," making it a perennial favorite. From unique rolls to spectacular sashimi platters, Katsuya consistently delivers a dining experience that is both "delicious" and a feast for the senses. Perfect for both intimate dinners and lively celebrations, it’s a must-visit for sushi enthusiasts.
A photo of Ōwa restaurant
4.5
Awesome(65)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Venice
Booked 38 times today
Ōwa in Venice, Los Angeles, is a standout destination for Pacific Rim cuisine, offering a "fantastic" blend of modern sushi favorites and Japanese classics. Diners rave about the "incredible" Spicy Garlic Edamame and the soul-satisfying rolls like the "complex, so many flavors" Soul Roll. With its commitment to "from-scratch recipes" and "fresh, locally-sourced ingredients," Ōwa ensures an authentic and high-quality dining experience. The ambiance is described as "fantastic," with a cozy patio lit by tiny lights and a warm fireplace, perfect for a romantic evening. Ōwa's signature cocktails, such as the "stunning and tasty" Spicy Owl, elevate the experience further.
A photo of Hermanito restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(526)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • West Los Angeles
Booked 37 times today
Hermanito, located in the vibrant heart of Sawtelle in West Los Angeles, is a cocktail bar that promises a "delightful" experience with its creative Mexican-Asian fusion drinks. Guests rave about the "yummy and pretty looking cocktails" that perfectly complement the restaurant's lively and welcoming ambiance. The cocktails are expertly crafted with a nod to the neighborhood's Japanese heritage, blending new and classic Mexican flavors. "Great cocktails and food" are consistently highlighted by patrons, making it a must-visit spot for cocktail enthusiasts. Whether you're there for Happy Hour or a dinner date, Hermanito ensures an unforgettable cocktail experience.
A photo of Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge restaurant
4.5
Awesome(114)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Santa Monica
Booked 29 times today
Edgemar Restaurant + Lounge in Santa Monica is a standout destination for authentic Mediterranean cuisine, celebrated for its fresh and flavorful dishes that transport diners straight to the shores of the Mediterranean. Nestled in a historic Frank Gehry-designed building, Edgemar offers an ambiance that is as inviting as its menu. Diners rave about the "uniquely tasty" offerings and "exceptional flavor profiles" that are crafted with "authentic spices," making every dish a memorable experience. The "beautiful ambiance" and "fantastic service" further elevate the dining experience, ensuring that Edgemar is not just a meal, but a true culinary journey.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Sofia
    Milan •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    good place to have a nice dinner with fabulous cocktails in venice area
    More info
    Belles Beach HousePrice: Moderate• Hawaii Regional Cuisine• Venice
    4.6
  • AnnVIP
    Chicago / Illinois •34 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Jun 30, 2025
    Staff really nice. Chef amazing. Really enjoyable evening
    More info
    Benihana - Santa Monica, CAPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Santa Monica
    4.3
  • Shawna
    Las Vegas •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Jun 29, 2025
    Found restaurant through Open Table app. Amazing experience. Friendly staff. Delicious food. Great ambiance. From start to finish this place excelled. Would definitely come back!
    More info
    Sushi Roku - Santa MonicaPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Santa Monica
    4.9
  • Gina
    San Francisco Bay Area •2 reviews
    4.0
    Dined on Jun 28, 2025
    We were greeted by a very lovely hostess. She knew we were there to celebrate my daughter's birthday (I'm visiting her from out of town), and she said she had a great table for us (which it was). Our waiter was the opposite. He did give great suggestions of things to order (not from his own inquiry of questions we had about the menu, but our questions because we had never been there before). He walked passed our table many times, not stopping to check in or fill our glasses from the bottle of wine we ordered. He didn't bring one dish we ordered, and had to remind him to remove it from our bill. He never asked if there was anything else we wanted (dessert for the birthday). We saw him being attentive to other customers, and he actually came over to spend time telling us about taking time to talk to another customer's daughter on the phone to take her "to go" order. Why is that important to us when we're there to celebrate my daughter's birthday. Bottom line, the food was delicious and the hostess was very sweet. If we go again, maybe we'll get a waiter interested in our experience.
    More info
    Wabi on RosePrice: Expensive• Sushi• Venice
    4.7
  • OpenTable Diner
    Los Angeles •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 11, 2025
    Lunch special quality was wonderfully! Everything was delicious and fresh sushi
    More info
    Kappo Miyabi Santa MonicaPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Santa Monica
    4

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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