Food & Drink

Teriyaki Tour: Drool-Worthy Chicken in San Diego!

San Diego has a diverse food scene that offers a range of exotic flavors to satisfy your taste buds. If you are a fan of Asian cuisine, you must have tried or heard of chicken teriyaki.

It is a Japanese dish that features grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce made with soy sauce, mirin, and sugar. Chicken teriyaki is a popular dish in San Diego, and you can find it in many restaurants across the city.

However, not all chicken teriyaki dishes are created equal. Some restaurants do it better than others, and as a local, it is your responsibility to point out the best places to indulge in this delicious dish.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the best places for chicken teriyaki in San Diego. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, this guide will come in handy when you are craving some mouth-watering chicken teriyaki.

We will explore different restaurants that offer chicken teriyaki, from the traditional Japanese spots to the fusion restaurants that put their own spin on the dish.

We will also consider factors such as the quality of the chicken, the flavor of the sauce, the portion size, and the overall dining experience. So, sit back, relax, and let us take you on a culinary journey to find the best chicken teriyaki in San Diego.

1. Sushi Ota

Sushi Ota
4529 Mission Bay Dr., San Diego, CA 92109 (Google Maps)

Sushi Ota is a chef-owned Japanese restaurant that offers premium sushi and omakase tastings.

They also serve chicken teriyaki, which is very good. The restaurant is usually packed, so making a reservation ahead of time is recommended.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable about the food they serve. The chicken teriyaki is consistently delicious and worth the price.

If you're a fan of Japanese cuisine, Sushi Ota is definitely worth a visit.

2. Azuki Sushi Lounge

Azuki Sushi Lounge
2321 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Azuki Sushi Lounge is a must-visit place for anyone craving chicken teriyaki in the city. The restaurant boasts a hip and modern atmosphere with prompt service and timely delivery of entrees.

The chicken teriyaki is perfectly cooked and seasoned, making it a standout dish on the menu.

The sushi is also exceptional, with fresh and carefully sourced ingredients. The restaurant is small, so reservations are recommended, and the prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service.

For a gourmet Japanese culinary experience, Azuki Sushi Lounge is the place to be.

3. Izakaya Masa

Izakaya Masa
928 Fort Stockton Dr, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Izakaya Masa is a cozy, intimate Japanese restaurant that offers a wide range of dishes, including chicken teriyaki. The restaurant's prices are reasonable, and the portion sizes are generous.

The miso soup and teriyaki chicken are popular choices among customers. The staff is friendly, and the customer service is excellent.

Outdoor dining is available, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal on a nice day. The restaurant also offers a variety of appetizers, sushi, and ramen dishes that are worth trying.

With great food, atmosphere, and service, Izakaya Masa is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic Japanese dining experience.

4. Sushi Deli 3

Sushi Deli 3
7986 Armour St, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Sushi Deli 3 is a popular Japanese restaurant that is known for its delicious chicken teriyaki. The restaurant has a trendy vibe and is always buzzing with activity.

The portions are generous and the prices are reasonable, making it a great option for those looking for a filling meal without breaking the bank.

The chicken teriyaki is cooked to perfection, with a flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken.

The service is impeccable and the staff is always friendly and welcoming. If you're looking for a great place for chicken teriyaki, Sushi Deli 3 is definitely worth a visit.

5. Kyoto Sushi

Kyoto Sushi
3166 Midway Dr #108, San Diego, CA 92110 (Google Maps)

Kyoto Sushi is a family-run Japanese restaurant that serves delicious chicken teriyaki. The food is fresh and reasonably priced, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.

The atmosphere is pleasant and family-oriented, making it a great place to bring your loved ones.

The owner is very personable and engages with customers throughout the restaurant. The parking is easy and accessible, and the location is buzzing with locals who love the classic Japanese eats.

If you're in the mood for some tasty chicken teriyaki, Kyoto Sushi is definitely worth checking out.

6. Ikiru Sushi

Ikiru Sushi
2850 Womble Rd SUITE 105, San Diego, CA 92106 (Google Maps)

Ikiru Sushi is a must-try for chicken teriyaki lovers. The restaurant offers a variety of Japanese dishes, but their chicken teriyaki is a standout.

The meat is cooked to perfection, and the teriyaki sauce is sweet and savory.

The staff is friendly and attentive, making the dining experience enjoyable. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance, perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.

Prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous. If you're in the mood for some delicious chicken teriyaki, head to Ikiru Sushi.

7. Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant

Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant
1790 W Washington St, San Diego, CA 92103 (Google Maps)

Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant is a hidden gem for those seeking authentic Japanese cuisine.

The menu offers a variety of dishes, but the chicken teriyaki is a must-try. The price is reasonable, and the service is exceptional with friendly waitstaff.

The atmosphere is calm and inviting, perfect for a casual meal. The restaurant has been family-owned for over 30 years, and their expertise is evident in the quality of their food.

Yoshino's Japanese Restaurant is a great spot for sushi, tempura, and other delights.

8. Temari-zushi

Temari-Zushi
3555 Rosecrans St, San Diego, CA 92110 (Google Maps)

Temari-zushi is a small Japanese restaurant that serves some of the best chicken teriyaki in town.

The dish is cooked to perfection and served with a generous amount of sauce that complements the flavor of the chicken.

The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and attentive service make for a delightful dining experience. The prices are reasonable, and the portions are generous, making it a great value for money.

If you're in the mood for some delicious chicken teriyaki, Temari-zushi is definitely worth checking out.

9. Kokoro Restaurant

Kokoro Restaurant
3298 Greyling Dr, San Diego, CA 92123 (Google Maps)

Kokoro Restaurant is a hidden gem that offers some of the best Japanese food in its area.

Their chicken teriyaki is a must-try dish that's full of flavor and perfectly cooked. The ambiance is relaxing and the service is exceptional.

The restaurant offers a curated selection of fresh fish and sushi that's unmatched by other area sushi joints.

The prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service one receives. If you're in the mood for some authentic Japanese cuisine, Kokoro Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.

10. Riki Sushi

Riki Sushi
3930 30th St, San Diego, CA 92104 (Google Maps)

Riki Sushi is a casual yet contemporary Japanese restaurant that offers classic sushi and rolls, plus hot entrees.

Their chicken teriyaki is a must-try dish that is cooked to perfection and served with a generous portion of rice and vegetables.

The restaurant's modern decor adds to the overall dining experience, making it a great place to enjoy a delicious meal with friends or family.

The prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly and efficient. If you are a chicken teriyaki lover, Riki Sushi is definitely worth a visit.

11. Taka Restaurant

Taka Restaurant
555 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101 (Google Maps)

Taka Restaurant is a Japanese restaurant that serves chicken teriyaki.

Their sashimi is fresh and beautifully presented.

Although the atmosphere lacks the traditional Japanese touch, the friendly staff make up for it.

Prices are on the high end but the food is worth it. Highly recommended for sushi and Japanese mains.

12. Chiba Japanese

Chiba Japanese
10435 San Diego Mission Rd, San Diego, CA 92108 (Google Maps)

Chiba Japanese is a must-visit for anyone looking for delicious chicken teriyaki at an affordable price.

The staff is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is cozy and welcoming. The menu offers a wide variety of options, including unique sushi rolls and bento boxes.

The chicken teriyaki is cooked to perfection, with a flavorful glaze that will leave your taste buds wanting more. The portions are generous, making it a great value for your money.

Whether you're in the mood for a quick lunch or a casual dinner with friends, Chiba Japanese is the perfect spot for satisfying your cravings for chicken teriyaki.

13. Teriyaki Madness

Teriyaki Madness
2511 Coronado Ave CA, San Diego, CA 92154 (Google Maps)

Teriyaki Madness is a quick-service Asian restaurant serving up delicious chicken teriyaki bowls with fried rice and veggies.

The counter-serve branch offers affordable and friendly service with a variety of Asian-style proteins and veggies.

The food is highly recommended and the teriyaki bowls are gluten-free.

If you're looking for a satisfying and delicious meal, Teriyaki Madness is the place to go.

14. Niban Japanese Restaurant

Niban Japanese Restaurant
7081 Clairemont Mesa Blvd Lecture Hall, San Diego, CA 92111 (Google Maps)

Niban Japanese Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone craving delicious chicken teriyaki.

This cozy restaurant offers monthly specials on sushi and curry, making it a great spot for Japanese cuisine lovers.

The food is consistently good and reasonably priced, and the service is friendly and efficient.

While the restaurant can get busy at times, the wait times are usually short. Niban Japanese Restaurant is a great choice for a casual and satisfying meal.

15. Kawaii Sushi

Kawaii Sushi
6171 Mission Gorge Rd # 103, San Diego, CA 92120 (Google Maps)

Kawaii Sushi is a great place to enjoy chicken teriyaki. The service is friendly and the food is of good quality.

The restaurant offers a variety of sushi and appetizers that are worth trying. The pricing is affordable and the portions are generous.

The parking situation around the restaurant can be difficult, but it's worth the effort to enjoy the delicious food.

The decor is cute and the atmosphere is low-key and classy. If you're looking for a local spot to enjoy Japanese cuisine, Kawaii Sushi is definitely worth a visit.