Any insider tips for Sasa?

Book the patio-adjacent tables for lower noise without losing ambiance.

What should I order at Sasa?

Omakase nigiri; hamachi sashimi; seasonal special roll

When should I visit Sasa?

Weeknights after 7:30pm for a calmer room

Who should go to Sasa?

Couples seeking upscale Japanese and cocktails

Any insider tips for Toyosu?

Ask about day-boat specials—limited pieces often sell out early.

What should I order at Toyosu?

Chef’s sashimi; o-toro nigiri; spicy scallop hand roll

When should I visit Toyosu?

Tue–Thu first seating to avoid waits

Who should go to Toyosu?

Sushi purists who value precision

Any insider tips for Hakashi Sushi Bar & Grill?

Request bar seats to chat with the chef about off-menu fish.

What should I order at Hakashi Sushi Bar & Grill?

Chirashi; hamachi kama; chef’s omakase

When should I visit Hakashi Sushi Bar & Grill?

Fri early seating for smoother pacing

Who should go to Hakashi Sushi Bar & Grill?

Couples wanting variety without formality

Any insider tips for Oishi Sushi & Grill?

Ask for extra-crisp reheat on tempura if ordering late.

What should I order at Oishi Sushi & Grill?

Nigiri combo; salmon avocado; tempura udon

When should I visit Oishi Sushi & Grill?

Weeknights after 7pm for shortest waits

Who should go to Oishi Sushi & Grill?

Casual dates prioritizing value

Best Japanese Restaurants in Walnut Creek (94596)

4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated

Notable Picks

#1 Sasa

8.6

$$$$ North Main / Downtown Core

Vibes: Date Night Magic Luxury Dining Elite Trendy Table Hotspots Girls Night Out Approved

Modern Japanese izakaya with a serious raw bar and composed nigiri, ideal for a polished, linger-worthy date. Seasonal fish, craft cocktails, and a sleek room make it the most refined sushi-adjacent option downtown.

Must-Try Dishes: Omakase nigiri set, Hamachi sashimi with citrus, Bluefin toro nigiri (when available)

What makes it special: Izakaya-style menu with elevated sushi and craft cocktails in a stylish space.

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#2 Toyosu

8.3

$$ Locust Street Corridor

Vibes: Date Night Magic Trendy Table Hotspots Outdoor Dining Oasis

Intimate sushi bar on Locust with clean cuts, attentive chefs, and a concise list of sake. The room’s warm lighting and steady pacing fit classic sushi-first date nights.

Must-Try Dishes: Omakase sashimi, Uni nigiri (market availability), Spicy scallop hand roll

What makes it special: Chef-driven nigiri and sashimi with a cozy sushi counter.

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#3 Hakashi Sushi Bar & Grill

8.0

$$$ North Main / Downtown Core

Vibes: Date Night Magic Group Dining Gatherings Happy Hour Hotspots

Lively downtown spot balancing classic rolls, chirashi, and approachable omakase with a comfortable bar. Good energy without being chaotic keeps conversation easy for date night.

Must-Try Dishes: Chef’s omakase (reservations recommended), Chirashi bowl, Hamachi kama

What makes it special: Flexible menu with chirashi, omakase, and a solid sake set.

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Worthy Picks

#4 Oishi Sushi & Grill

7.8

$ Broadway Plaza / Newell

Vibes: Date Night Magic Quick Bites Champions Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance

Casual Newell Avenue standby with friendly service, fair prices, and dependable fish for a laid-back sushi date. Efficient turn times and plenty of cooked options widen the playbook.

Must-Try Dishes: Nigiri combo set, Salmon avocado roll, Tempura udon

What makes it special: Reliable, friendly neighborhood sushi with efficient pacing.

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