Dan Izakaya Restaurant

- 1306 Saratoga Ave, San Jose, CA 95129

For residents across the Bay Area seeking an authentic and lively Japanese dining experience, Dan Izakaya Restaurant stands out as a premier destination in San Jose. Categorized as both an Izakaya Restaurant and a traditional Japanese Restaurant, this establishment perfectly captures the spirit of a Japanese pub—a place for casual drinking, socializing, and enjoying a wide variety of delicious small plates designed to be shared. The atmosphere is frequently described as a dynamic blend of Casual, Cozy, and Trendy, making it a great spot for both a relaxed weeknight meal or a celebratory gathering with friends.

Dan Izakaya's expansive menu goes far beyond typical sushi offerings, specializing in the diverse, flavorful comfort foods that define Izakaya cuisine. Patrons can indulge in savory grilled rice balls, known as Yaki Onigiri, hearty rice bowls like the highly popular Deluxe Meshi and Garlic Steak Don, and an array of perfectly prepared appetizers. The restaurant prides itself on Fast Service and a focus on hospitality, though its immense popularity means that it Usually a wait if you don't plan ahead, a clear sign of its reputation among local Bay Area diners, including a large crowd of College students and Groups.

Whether you are craving crispy Chicken Karaage, a fresh Sashimi Set, or a satisfying Bento Box, Dan Izakaya offers a comprehensive culinary journey. The quality of their offerings and the welcoming, buzzing energy of the dining room consistently earn high praise, cementing its status as a local favorite for Lunch and Dinner in the heart of Silicon Valley.

Location and Accessibility

Dan Izakaya Restaurant is conveniently located in San Jose, serving the entire South Bay community and visitors to Silicon Valley. You can find this Japanese gem at:

Address: 1306 Saratoga Ave, San Jose, CA 95129, USA

The restaurant is situated in a location easily accessible by car, and accessibility for all guests is a clear priority. The following provisions are in place:

• Wheelchair accessible entrance for smooth entry into the facility.
• Wheelchair accessible parking lot with dedicated spaces close to the entrance.
• Wheelchair accessible restroom facilities are provided.
• Wheelchair accessible seating options are available within the dining room.

For drivers, parking is designed to be hassle-free, a much-appreciated amenity in a busy urban area like San Jose:

• Free parking lot is provided for customer convenience.
• Free street parking options are also available nearby.

Services Offered

Dan Izakaya is dedicated to providing flexible and comprehensive services to accommodate modern California lifestyles:

• Full Dining Options: Available for Dine-in with comfortable Seating and Table service for Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert. It is particularly Popular for both Solo dining and large Groups.
• Takeout and Delivery: A full menu is available for Takeout and Delivery, offering the convenience of enjoying authentic Japanese cuisine at home or the office.
• Reservations: Given its popularity and tendency for Usually a wait, the restaurant strongly Accepts reservations, with both Lunch reservations recommended and Dinner reservations recommended. Guests must call the restaurant to book their tables in advance.
• Beverage Program: Features a robust selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including Beer, Wine, Cocktails, Hard liquor, and Alcohol served at the bar area with dedicated Food at bar options.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: The restaurant accommodates families with young children by providing High chairs.
• Payment Flexibility: Accepts all major payment types for ease of transaction, including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Features / Highlights

The unique draw of Dan Izakaya lies in its extensive, high-quality menu and distinct style, making it a favorite for Japanese food in San Jose.

• Signature Meshi and Donburi Bowls: The star of the menu are the hot stone rice bowls, known as Meshi. The Deluxe Meshi (seared salmon sashimi, eel, roe, and poached egg over crunchy skillet rice) is consistently the most popular, and the Garlic Steak Don and Unagi Don are also top picks for hearty meals.
• Izakaya Classics and Small Plates: As a true Izakaya, it specializes in Small plates and appetizers perfect for sharing. Must-try items include the crispy Chicken Karaage, savory Takoyaki (octopus balls), Agedashi Tofu, and the unique Yaki Onigiri (2pcs)—grilled rice balls that come with a satisfyingly crisp exterior.
• Diverse Main Course Options: Beyond the rice bowls, the menu offers full Sashimi Sets (including a Premium Sashimi Set), various Bento Box combinations like the Unagi Bento and Salmon Teriyaki Bento, and specialty appetizers such as Gyu Tongue and Spicy Niku Tofu.
• Specialty Drink and Tea Selection: The restaurant offers a wide range of beverages and is highlighted for having a Great tea selection, adding a refined touch to the casual Izakaya atmosphere.
• High-Quality Ingredients: Patrons frequently praise the freshness of the ingredients, particularly the sashimi and the quality of the proteins used in dishes like the Hamachi Tataki Don and Salmon Shioyaki Don.
• Menu Innovation: The restaurant keeps things fresh with weekly specials and unique items like Matcha Chicken Karaage and the new Stamina Don, encouraging customers to be adventurous with their ordering.

Contact Information

For all inquiries, including making a phone reservation for Dinner or Lunch, please use the following contact details. Remember that reservations must be made a few days in advance by phone, as same-day bookings are not typically available.

Address: 1306 Saratoga Ave, San Jose, CA 95129, USA
Phone: (408) 249-6020
Mobile Phone: +1 408-249-6020

What is Worth Choosing Dan Izakaya Restaurant

Dan Izakaya is the clear choice for Bay Area diners seeking an authentic, fun, and high-quality Japanese Izakaya experience. What sets this San Jose favorite apart is the compelling combination of a lively, modern atmosphere and a menu featuring must-try, specialty dishes you won't easily find elsewhere.

The unique Meshi dishes, especially the Deluxe Meshi with its crunchy rice and savory toppings, are a signature reason to visit. For those who appreciate classic Japanese fare, the perfectly executed Yaki Onigiri and multiple variations of Chicken Karaage deliver that comforting, delicious quality that defines the Izakaya style. Furthermore, the restaurant is committed to accommodating all guests, offering a good selection of Healthy options and a full bar menu to pair with the small plates. The consistent feedback regarding Fast service and friendly staff, despite the busy crowd, ensures a pleasant experience. In a market saturated with Japanese options, Dan Izakaya’s commitment to premium, comforting food and a vibrant, Trendy dining environment makes it an essential visit for any Japanese food lover in California's Silicon Valley. To ensure a table, particularly for a weekend Dinner, calling ahead for a reservation is highly recommended.

Dan Izakaya Restaurant

1306 Saratoga Ave, San Jose, CA 95129, USA