Best Izakaya in Bay Area: 10 Must-Try for Japanese Flavors

When it comes to relaxing with a drink and some grilled skewers after a long day, few places beat the cozy charm of an izakaya. The Bay Area, with its diverse culinary landscape, is home to some of the best Japanese-style gastropubs outside of Japan. Whether you're craving charcoal-grilled yakitori, specialty sashimi, or just a quiet spot with warm sake, this curated guide of 10 best izakaya in Bay Area, across San Francisco, the Peninsula, South Bay, and East Bay will help you find the perfect place to unwind and indulge. 

Best Izakaya in Bay Area - San Francisco 

Rintaro  

Highlight: Refined Courtyard Dining  A truly authentic izakaya in the heart of San Francisco, Rintaro blends traditional Japanese charm with modern flair. The vaulted wooden ceiling and serene courtyard create an ideal setting for enjoying a pot of hot sake even on chilly nights. The extensive menu adds creative twists to classic Japanese fare. Don’t miss their "Rintaro Specials" – they’re just as unforgettable as the grilled selections.  

Recommended Dishes: Negima / Kanzuri Yakitori / Trumpet Mushrooms  

Address: 82 14th St, San Francisco 

Sakesan Sushi & Robata  

Highlight: Stylish Modern Decor  This chic izakaya combines sushi and robata grill offerings with a lively atmosphere. It features tatami tables, a sushi bar, and even KTV glass rooms for private gatherings. Popular for its vibrant ambiance and delicious food, guests are often surprised by the quality of its udon and rice bowls in addition to the izakaya menu.  

Recommended Dishes: Oysters / Kirin Roll / Dynamite Mussels / Scallops  

Address: 1400 Ocean Ave, San Francisco   

Best Izakaya in Bay Area - Peninsula 

Yakitori Kokko  

Highlight: Best on the Peninsula  A small yet beloved traditional izakaya, Yakitori Kokko is always buzzing with patrons – and for good reason. Known for the Peninsula’s best charcoal-grilled chicken skewers and beef tongue, its cozy setting and loyal Japanese following make it a local favorite. Try the crispy chicken skin skewers – they’re surprisingly tender inside.  

Recommended Dishes: Ankimo / Sausage & Pork Belly Skewers / Tori Soboro Don  

Address: 509 2nd Ave, San Mateo 

Mokutanya  

Highlight: Zen-Inspired Interior  This refined izakaya is famous for its glass-walled seating nooks and traditional no-shoes policy, offering an immersive dining experience. It’s a perfect date spot with its tranquil ambiance, premium skewers, and curated sake list.  

Recommended Dishes: Fried Shishamo / Chicken Karaage / Wagyu Beef / Yam Chips  

Address: 1155 California Dr, Burlingame 

Izakaya Ginji  

Highlight: Retro Japanese Vibe  With walls adorned in vintage Japanese posters and staff speaking Japanese, this izakaya captures an authentic nostalgic feel. The tapas-style yakitori dishes are carefully seasoned for a deep, comforting flavor. It’s a haven for meat lovers seeking great skewers with a cold beer.  

Recommended Dishes: Saba Shioyaki / Soft Shell Crab / Chicken Meatballs  

Address: 301 E 4th Ave, Burlingame 

Best Izakaya in Bay Area - South Bay 

Gaku Yakitori  

Highlight: Creative Japanese Cuisine  Gaku is known for its high-end yakitori, using specialty charcoal imported from Japan for that distinct grilled flavor. While it’s priced higher, the quality speaks for itself, with a menu that includes fresh seafood and inventive Japanese creations.  

Recommended Dishes: Grilled Eel / Soft Shell Crab / Chicken Meatballs  

Address: 5152 Moorpark Ave, West San Jose 

Sumiya Japanese Charcoal Grill  

Highlight: Skewer Bento Boxes  A sister restaurant to Gaku, Sumiya specializes in juicy grilled chicken with a signature thick sauce. They also serve flavorful rice bowls and udon. Their lunch bento boxes are a perfect midday treat for skewer fans.  

Recommended Dishes: Bento Skewers / Baked Avocado / Yaki Onigiri / Grilled Duck  

Address: 2634 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara 

Sumika  

Highlight: Michelin-Recommended  This elegant and cozy izakaya is led by a Japanese immigrant chef and has earned Michelin recognition. The pace is leisurely, and reservations are essential, but it's worth it for a refined night of skewers and sake. Don’t leave without trying the unagi.  

Recommended Dishes: Unagi / Baked Avocado / Yaki Onigiri / Dengaku  

Address: 236 Central Plaza, Los Altos 

Best Izakaya in Bay Area - East Bay 

Kiraku  Highlight: Corn Tempura Delight  Tucked away in Berkeley, Kiraku ranks among the top-rated izakayas on Yelp. It draws lines well before opening with its refined design and mouthwatering menu. From truffle beef tongue to signature corn tempura, every bite offers rich, authentic flavor.  

Recommended Dishes: Duck Breast / Bone Marrow / Wagyu Beef Tataki / Beef Intestine  

Address: 2566B Telegraph Ave, Berkeley 

Kirala Japanese Restaurant  

Highlight: Budget-Friendly Champion  Beloved across the Bay, Kirala combines fresh ingredients with unbeatable prices – perfect for students and casual diners. At just $15–$30 per person, this izakaya is ideal for spontaneous post-class bites or a relaxed dinner date.  

Recommended Dishes: Grilled Lobster / Soft Shell Crab / Saba Shioyaki / Sashimi  

Address: 2100 Ward St, Berkeley 

In a bustling region like the Bay Area, discovering an izakaya that feels like a hidden gem can be a true delight. From Rintaro’s refined courtyard in SF to the Michelin-recommended Sumika in Los Altos, each venue offers its own blend of flavor, warmth, and authenticity. Whether you’re a sake enthusiast, yakitori lover, or just looking for a new spot for your next casual dinner, these 10 izakayas promise not only great food but also the cozy atmosphere that turns any evening into a memory. Cheers to your next flavorful night out!