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✔️Lunch ✔️Dinner ✔️Dine in ✔️Take out
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Sushi, udon, katsu & more at a no-frills spot with booth seating & a wall of customer photos.
Hours
| Friday | 11:15 AM–1:15 PM, 5–8:30 PM |
| Saturday | 11:15 AM–1:15 PM, 5–8:30 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 11:15 AM–1:15 PM, 5–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:15 AM–1:15 PM, 5–8 PM |
| Thursday | 11:15 AM–1:15 PM, 5–8 PM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 617 N 6th St, San Jose, CA 95112
Phone: (408) 998-9711
Website: https://www.minatojapaneserestaurant.com/
Menu Photos
Photo Gallery
Related Web Results
Minato Japanese Restaurant San Jose Japantown
HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON! · 617 North 6th Street | San Jose, CA 95112 · LUNCH · 11:15AM – 1:15PM · DINNER · 5:00PM – 8:00PM · 5:00PM –8:30PM.
Minato Restaurant (@minato_restaurant) · San Jose, CA – Instagram
1.5K+ followers · 60 posts · Simple Family Japanese Restaurant.
Minato Japanese Restaurant – Visit San Jose
Minato Japanese Restaurant. Image description not available. Website. Contact. (408) 998-9711. 617 North 6th Street San Jose, CA 95112. Neighborhood. Japantown …
Reviews
American Angler
Claster Riddley and his little stab Bowdoebingco Coomahoop were in town from Australia for the Boom and Stick world championship tournament at the Greeport Auditorium and wanted real authentic Japanese food, and somehow the Minato Japanese Restaurant caught their eye as being the most authentic Japanese Restaurant in the city! Well, we went to Minato, and I must say..the panko pork cutlet was amazing as was everything else.
5 stars for sure! ☆☆☆☆☆
… more5 stars for sure! ☆☆☆☆☆
Sohrob H
A San Jose Staple with Rich Local History
Minato Japanese Restaurant is a deeply established part of the San Jose community, known for its long history and no-frills, traditional atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that many locals have frequented for years, and you can feel that sense of heritage as soon as you walk in. The menu features a wide array of Japanese staples like sushi, udon, and katsu, served in a classic booth-seating environment that feels like a step back in time. While the overall experience was a bit of a mixed bag for me, the food quality was decent, and it’s easy to see why it has maintained its presence in the neighborhood for so long. It represents a piece of Japantown that many hold dear.
Decent Food with Quick Turnaround
One aspect where the restaurant performed well was the speed of the kitchen. Despite the steady flow of customers, the food came out relatively quick, which is great if you are looking for a meal that doesn’t drag on. The dishes provide a straightforward, comforting taste of Japanese home-style cooking. While the flavors didn’t necessarily stand out as exceptional or innovative compared to other spots in the area, the execution was competent and satisfying. It serves as a reliable option for those who want familiar, classic dishes served without much of a wait or any modern fusion distractions.
Surprising Interactions and Service Gaps
Unfortunately, the visit was marred by some rather interesting service. When I asked a simple, standard question about whether they had draft beer, the server actually scoffed at me, which felt completely unnecessary and a bit rude. It wasn’t the kind of question that usually merits that kind of reaction, and it left a bit of a sour note on the evening. While the staff was efficient in getting the food to the table and keeping the line moving, that lack of basic politeness made the environment feel less welcoming than I had hoped for. It’s a bit disappointing when a historic spot lacks the hospitality to match its reputation.
Efficient Kitchen: You won’t be sitting around hungry; the transition from ordering to eating is very fast.
Traditional Vibe: The restaurant has a very specific, old-school feel that many regular patrons find charming and nostalgic.
Menu Variety: They offer a large selection of cooked items and sushi, providing plenty of choices for different tastes and dietary preferences.
Historical Context: Being a part of Japantown’s history since the 1960s adds a layer of character that you don’t get at newer establishments.
Final Verdict: Form Your Own Opinion
I am rating Minato Japanese Restaurant 3 stars on Google. While the history is impressive and the food is perfectly fine, the service interaction I had was a major drawback for me. Personally, it wasn’t my kind of place and I won’t be returning, but given its popularity and long-standing reputation, I’d still suggest that others try it out for themselves. It seems to be a polarizing spot where your enjoyment might depend heavily on your expectations for service and your appreciation for “old-school” vibes.
… moreMinato Japanese Restaurant is a deeply established part of the San Jose community, known for its long history and no-frills, traditional atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that many locals have frequented for years, and you can feel that sense of heritage as soon as you walk in. The menu features a wide array of Japanese staples like sushi, udon, and katsu, served in a classic booth-seating environment that feels like a step back in time. While the overall experience was a bit of a mixed bag for me, the food quality was decent, and it’s easy to see why it has maintained its presence in the neighborhood for so long. It represents a piece of Japantown that many hold dear.
Decent Food with Quick Turnaround
One aspect where the restaurant performed well was the speed of the kitchen. Despite the steady flow of customers, the food came out relatively quick, which is great if you are looking for a meal that doesn’t drag on. The dishes provide a straightforward, comforting taste of Japanese home-style cooking. While the flavors didn’t necessarily stand out as exceptional or innovative compared to other spots in the area, the execution was competent and satisfying. It serves as a reliable option for those who want familiar, classic dishes served without much of a wait or any modern fusion distractions.
Surprising Interactions and Service Gaps
Unfortunately, the visit was marred by some rather interesting service. When I asked a simple, standard question about whether they had draft beer, the server actually scoffed at me, which felt completely unnecessary and a bit rude. It wasn’t the kind of question that usually merits that kind of reaction, and it left a bit of a sour note on the evening. While the staff was efficient in getting the food to the table and keeping the line moving, that lack of basic politeness made the environment feel less welcoming than I had hoped for. It’s a bit disappointing when a historic spot lacks the hospitality to match its reputation.
Efficient Kitchen: You won’t be sitting around hungry; the transition from ordering to eating is very fast.
Traditional Vibe: The restaurant has a very specific, old-school feel that many regular patrons find charming and nostalgic.
Menu Variety: They offer a large selection of cooked items and sushi, providing plenty of choices for different tastes and dietary preferences.
Historical Context: Being a part of Japantown’s history since the 1960s adds a layer of character that you don’t get at newer establishments.
Final Verdict: Form Your Own Opinion
I am rating Minato Japanese Restaurant 3 stars on Google. While the history is impressive and the food is perfectly fine, the service interaction I had was a major drawback for me. Personally, it wasn’t my kind of place and I won’t be returning, but given its popularity and long-standing reputation, I’d still suggest that others try it out for themselves. It seems to be a polarizing spot where your enjoyment might depend heavily on your expectations for service and your appreciation for “old-school” vibes.
Olga Nemesh
Minato Restaurant in San Jose is an excellent spot for sushi lovers. The sushi and sashimi are incredibly fresh, beautifully presented, and full of flavor. The atmosphere is relaxed and authentic, and the service is always friendly and attentive. A perfect place for a high-quality Japanese meal — highly recommend!
… moreGreg S
We were in the area on a Westfield Mall Swatch store pilgrimage. The Japanese restaurants at the mall had crazy long lines, so we decided to try Minato because it’s in Japan Town. There were four groups ahead of us when we arrived at 7:30, but I’m so glad we waited! My wife had Chicken Katsu, and she was very happy with the crunchy outside and tender breast meat inside (a nice surprise, as most places use dark meat). I had Sukiyaki, which came more quickly than I expected and was piping hot. The broth was just the right sweetness, and came with a generous portion of tender beef, tofu, noodles, cabbage, and thinly sliced bamboo shoots. We had a pot of toasted rice tea, and the dinners also came with salad and miso soup. I was frankly shocked that the total bill was under $50 with tip – a super value! The service was friendly and attentive, and you could tell that many folks were regulars that knew the wait staff. Highly recommended!
… moreErick Flores
Incredibly fresh food and very attentive service. I ordered the Dinner Box and although it’s a simple meal, every item was flavorful and well made. Couldn’t list a single con.
… moreJared B
Still one of my favorite restaurants in Japantown. It is a diner type vibe so don’t expect a top tier sushi restaurant. The booths are degrading with tears in lots of the cushions. It is a family establishment and it feels that way. The prices are pretty good though. The sashimi is pretty good. It is just a nice feel good meal if you want some Japanese comfort food.
Hours are short especially for dinner and it can be a wait to get in but I’ve always heartily enjoyed my meals here.
… moreHours are short especially for dinner and it can be a wait to get in but I’ve always heartily enjoyed my meals here.
Alan
We’ve been here multiple times. And have never been disappointed with the combo meals. Once seated, the service was quick and efficient.
I had Sashimi and NY steaks combo and my wife had tempura and NY steaks combo. Sashimi were fresh and tasty. Both tempura shrimps were good size. The steaks were cooked and served properly, one with teriyaki sauce and the other with spicy dipping sauce on the side. Sapporo was cold and a hint of sweetness. Crockett appetizer was lightly fried and delightful.
… moreI had Sashimi and NY steaks combo and my wife had tempura and NY steaks combo. Sashimi were fresh and tasty. Both tempura shrimps were good size. The steaks were cooked and served properly, one with teriyaki sauce and the other with spicy dipping sauce on the side. Sapporo was cold and a hint of sweetness. Crockett appetizer was lightly fried and delightful.
Yuebing Wu
The rolls are bad. I went there Saturday and kids ordered California rolls and spicy tuna. They are no good. I could roll batter rolls and put them decent in the plate.
… moreLoki Nüwa
Was not at all that great. Went to sit down, was told to sign in on sheet, not really a problem. Some girl with a round face sat us and the old man we walked by said for us to have a good dinner. As soon as we were gonna sit down, the hostess snatched the extra silverware off the table and threw it onto another table, before saying “have a good dinner” in a very dry unhappy tone which was like an “ooook” moment. The salmon dish was good, miso soup was good. But i wanted sushi, and this place had VERY POOR selection on any option (just tuna and yellowtail no raw salmon rolls or sashimi). The atmosphere here was very poor. Went to sushi Maru the next day and had such a better experience with WAY more choices and could have rolls specially made. Plus very helpful and happy staff. Very happy and energetic atmosphere
… morePat Wong
The steamer baskets are super! Also great nabe options, especially on stormy days. Service is friendly and fast. Dishes served in correct order. The agedashi is tasty. The staff checks often if anything else is wanted. The plain rice is good!
The combination meals are great!
… moreThe combination meals are great!