Best Trendy Table Hotspots Japanese Restaurants in Walnut Creek
2 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Sasa
Izakaya-style menu with elevated sushi and craft cocktails in a stylish space.
Notable Picks
#1
Sasa
8.6
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.
#2
Toyosu
8.3
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.