Best Kyoto-style Restaurants in Downtown

11 restaurants available nearby

1. AKA San Diego

new

3.2

Good(27)

Price: Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 49 times today

Located in the bustling heart of Gaslamp, San Diego, AKA is more than just a restaurant. It’s a destination where exceptional food, craft cocktails, and an energetic nightlife converge. With a menu curated by renowned Chef Takuya Kudo, AKA offers a captivating fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai culinary traditions, all crafted with fresh ingredients and innovative techniques. The venue features a vibrant atmosphere complemented by artisanal craft cocktails from mixologist Gerardo Bedolla and striking design by Cassandra Builer. AKA welcomes guests to indulge in its exquisite dishes while enjoying electrifying entertainment. Committed to transforming the dining and nightlife scene in San Diego, AKA offers a unique and unforgettable experience for everyone looking to savor gourmet cuisine, sip on craft cocktails, and dance the night away.

A photo of Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego restaurant

2. Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

4.6

Exceptional(1722)

Price: Moderate

• Kyoto-style • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 31 times today

At Lionfish Restaurant, situated in the heart of downtown San Diego, seafood lovers revel in a culinary experience that is as delightful as it is authentic. This modern sushi and seafood haven, led by the talented local chef JoJo Ruiz, showcases a passion for fresh-catch cuisine that’s evident in every dish. Enthusiastic diners rave about the “best sushi and sashimi I have ever had! Melts in your mouth!” and commend the innovative, delicious dishes like the "Angry Fish," described as “the BEST fish I’ve ever had.” Lionfish not only excels in creating mouthwatering seafood but also provides an atmosphere and service that consistently exceed expectations. Whether it’s celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a night out, Lionfish is a must-visit for exceptional seafood in San Diego.

A photo of Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Diego, CA | Downtown Gaslamp Quarter restaurant

3. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Diego, CA | Downtown Gaslamp Quarter

4.6

Exceptional(264)

Price: Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 17 times today

Step into the heart of Downtown San Diego and discover Gyu-Kaku, where the art of Japanese BBQ (yakiniku) comes alive in a vibrant, interactive dining experience. Celebrated as the world's #1 Japanese BBQ brand, Gyu-Kaku offers a unique chance to take the reins as chef, grilling premium meats to perfection right at your table. Guests rave about the "delicious and high-quality beef" and are particularly fond of the "Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib." The restaurant's atmosphere is always bustling yet welcoming, with reviews highlighting the "fun atmosphere" and "exceptional service" that make every visit memorable. Whether it's the smokeless grills or the meticulously curated meat selections, Gyu-Kaku stands out as a must-visit for BBQ aficionados in San Diego.

4. Nobu San Diego

4.5

Awesome(3727)

Price: Very Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 58 times today

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Downtown San Diego, Nobu continues to dazzle patrons with its exceptional "New Style" Japanese cuisine. Known for its sushi, Nobu San Diego stands out for its quality, creativity, and the use of fresh ingredients. Reviewers rave about the sushi, describing it as "delicious" and noting the "impeccable service and ambiance." A standout dish frequently mentioned is the Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeno, celebrated for its perfect balance and innovative flavor profile. As one review puts it, "Every single dish was undoubtedly immaculate," emphasizing the consistent excellence and culinary mastery that Nobu San Diego delivers, making it a must-visit destination for sushi lovers.

5. Craft Bar Kamon

4.9

Exceptional(180)

Price: Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Downtown / Gaslamp

Booked 22 times today

Craft Bar Kamon, nestled in the vibrant East Village of Downtown San Diego, is a captivating destination for anyone seeking an authentic Asian dining experience. This unique establishment, inspired by the Taisho Roman era in Japan, seamlessly blends traditional Asian flavors with modern craft cocktails, creating a truly unique gastronomic journey. Patrons rave about the "complex and subtle drink flavors" and the exceptional dishes like "tuna and scallops," which are said to be "amazing." The ambiance, described as a "classy mystery novel," adds to the allure, making Craft Bar Kamon not just a meal, but an immersive cultural experience. The high praise from visitors, such as "the cocktails were exquisite and unique, truly one of a kind," underscores the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. Whether you're a local or just visiting, Craft Bar Kamon is a must-visit for an unforgettable slice of Asia in the heart of San Diego.

6. Cloak + Petal

4.6

Exceptional(944)

Price: Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Little Italy

Booked 57 times today

At Cloak + Petal, located in the vibrant neighborhood of Little Italy in San Diego, sushi isn't just food; it's an art form. This stylish restaurant offers a unique twist on traditional sushi, creating a dining experience that's both authentic and innovative. The ambiance, reminiscent of an abandoned Tokyo subway, enhances each meal, making it unforgettable. Guests rave about the sushi's freshness and quality, with one diner exclaiming, "the sushi was great and the special rolls were mind blowing." The restaurant's commitment to quality and atmosphere has made it a must-visit spot in San Diego, ensuring that each visit is not only a meal but a memorable event.

7. Tako

4.1

Excellent(41)

Price: Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Old Town

Booked 49 times today

Nestled in the most historic neighborhood in California, Old Town San Diego, there is plenty to see and do. We strive to provide an unforgettable experience with top notch cocktails, the freshest fish & ingredients available, and unmatched atmosphere....21+ Speakeasy, If the light is on we're Open!

A photo of King & Queen Cantina - San Diego restaurant

8. King & Queen Cantina - San Diego

4.5

Awesome(1172)

Price: Moderate

• Kyoto-style • Little Italy

Booked 31 times today

King & Queen Cantina in Little Italy, San Diego, is a vibrant hotspot where Mexican cuisine meets an electric party atmosphere. Esteemed for its innovative fusion of Latin dishes with Asian flavors, this cantina is a culinary delight. Patrons rave about the "bursting flavors" of their tacos, with one reviewer exclaiming they are the "best Birria tacos I've had outside of Mexico." The restaurant's ambience enhances the dining experience, described as having a "weekend vibe on a Tuesday night." From their famous Margarita flight to the generous portions of uniquely flavored tacos, King & Queen Cantina offers an unforgettable dining experience that keeps locals and visitors alike coming back for more.

A photo of Harmony Cuisine 2B1 restaurant

9. Harmony Cuisine 2B1

4.9

Exceptional(250)

Price: Very Expensive

• Kyoto-style • Kearny Mesa

Booked 12 times today

At Harmony Cuisine 2B1 in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, the essence of Japanese cuisine comes alive, making it a must-visit for anyone craving authentic and exquisite Japanese flavors. Garnering OpenTable Diners' Choice awards in 2022 and 2023, the restaurant offers a blend of traditional sushi and innovative fusion dishes under the expert guidance of Chef Mickey Ninomiya. Patrons rave about the freshness and authenticity, with one noting the sushi "makes me feel like I'm living in Japan again." Special highlights include the premium A5 Miyazaki Wagyu and a creative menu that features not only classic sushi but also unique items like Wagyu Bolognaise spaghetti. The ambiance is "cozy," and the service is consistently described as welcoming and excellent, ensuring every visit is a remarkable dining experience.

10. Cannonball

4.4

Awesome(1139)

Price: Moderate

• Kyoto-style • Mission Bay

Booked 30 times today

Cannonball in Mission Bay, Belmont Park, is a gem for Pacific Rim cuisine lovers, offering a stunning fusion of flavors with a breathtaking ocean view. Patrons rave about the "seriously tasty sushi" and the "refreshing craft cocktails," which elevate the dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to culinary creativity shines through in dishes like the life-changing lobster roll and the freshly made sushi rolls, providing an "amazing food" experience as noted by many guests. The atmosphere, paired with "incredible service," makes Cannonball the perfect spot to enjoy the essence of Pacific Rim cuisine while overlooking the scenic Mission Beach. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual outing, Cannonball promises an unforgettable dining adventure with every visit.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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11 restaurants available nearby

1. AKA San Diego

2. Lionfish Restaurant at Pendry San Diego

3. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Diego, CA | Downtown Gaslamp Quarter

4. Nobu San Diego

5. Craft Bar Kamon

6. Cloak + Petal

7. Tako

8. King & Queen Cantina - San Diego

9. Harmony Cuisine 2B1

10. Cannonball

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