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About

Ai Japanese Restaurant, the premier destination for authentic Japanese cuisine in South Pasadena, CA. Experience the rich flavors and traditions of Japan at our cozy restaurant, conveniently located at 1013 Fair Oaks Ave, South Pasadena, CA 91030. Indulge in our extensive menu featuring an array of delectable Sushi options, carefully crafted to satisfy your cravings. From classic rolls to innovative creations, our Sushi chefs use only the freshest ingredients to ensure a truly exceptional dining experience. At Ai Japanese Restaurant, we're dedicated to providing a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a night out with friends, a romantic evening, or a family gathering. Our friendly staff is committed to delivering exceptional service, ensuring that every visit is a memorable one. Whether you're in the mood for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, Ai Japanese Restaurant is the ideal choice. Come and discover the authentic taste of Japan in the heart of South Pasadena. Visit us today and experience the best of Japanese restaurant and Sushi restaurant cuisine!

Ai Japanese Restaurant Review Summary

The summary was generated by AI, based on reviews.

Ai Japanese Restaurant serves up authentic and flavorful dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Sushi lovers rave about the fresh, high-quality ingredients and creative rolls. Service is attentive and friendly, making it a great spot for dates or casual gatherings.

Review Rating Chart

Yelp: 4.5/5

Google Reviews: 4.4/5

OpenTable: 4.6/5

TripAdvisor: 4.5/5

Zomato: 4.3/5

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Reviews & Ratings

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4.3
(359 Reviews)
5
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1
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Trênt Der Zerstörer
Trênt Der Zerstörer -Google user
2 years ago
Yum-Yum 'n Dem-Sum!! Had the Beef Teriyaki 'Tempura', friend had the 'Sushi Special' and both were served by the vivacious 'Karen' (she's bringing class and elegance back to that most historic name). Didn't think the portions would fill me up but they certainly...Read More
Dine inLunch$20–30Atmosphere: 5
Nadia Martins
Nadia Martins -Google user
a year ago
Ai is an Authentic Japanese restaurant with excellent quality and atmosphere! The chef and owner is talented and dedicated, staff was hospitable, friendly and helpful. I went for my wedding anniversary and had an amazing dinner. Definitely recommended!
Dine inDinner$50–100Atmosphere: 5Highly recommendFree parking lot
Karen Zacatelco
Karen Zacatelco -Google user
Edited a year ago
💖美味しい💖 Came here with my best friend and our moms. Service: Good service with friendly staff. Positive and warming atmosphere to the restaurant. Food: Ordered a lunch special (karage+ California rolls) and got more food than I expected. The food took a while, but tasted amazing and suited my...Read More
Dine inLunch$10–20Atmosphere: 5
Ceci Angelinni
Ceci Angelinni -Google user
a year ago
This restaurant is a hidden gem in South Pasadena, CA!! I tried it for the first time last Saturday, and I have already been back!! The food is DELICIOUS!! I love the peaceful ambiance, the location and their prices are right. Yummy!!!
Dine inDinner$20–30Atmosphere: 5Chicken Teriyaki Sashimi, Grilled Salmon and Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura, Tempura Salmon Teriyaki
Oxana Navrotskaya
Oxana Navrotskaya -Google user
Edited 2 years ago
Destination dining 🍽 always fresh and delicious fish. Lots of creative dishes from the chef Fumito-son.
Dine inLunch$20–30Atmosphere: 5Sashimi Deluxe, Shrimps Rolls, Spicy Tuna RollPlenty of parkingFree parking lotEasy parking in the back
Kacie Parente
Kacie Parente -Google user
a year ago
My dear husband suggested we go to AI. The food was remarkablely delicious. Service was warm and welcoming. I had the shrimp tempura. Oh oh it was heavenly. Big butterfly shrimp. Yum. We ordered shumai fried that was new for us. Or for my husband...Read More
Dine inBrunch$30–50RollSomewhat recommendVegetarian menu or sectionTempura vegetables. Rice, miso soup. I'm not sure what else.
Marlan Warren
Marlan Warren -Google user
a year ago
I have been coming to happily dine and enjoy the aesthetic ambiance of Ai since 1990. The chef is a master at the art of sushi, the regulars at the sushi bar never fail to interest or amuse, and I've always felt welcome. Since I eat...Read More
Dine inDinner$20–30Atmosphere: 5Beef Teriyaki and Sashimi Lunch Combo, Roll, Beef Teriyaki, Beef Teriyaki and Tempura, Shrimps Rolls, Sashimi Deluxe, Japanese Beef Teriyaki & Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura, Grilled Shrimp Salad, Grilled Salmon and Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura, Tempura Salmon Teriyaki, Shrimp Tempura & Sashimi, Grilled Salmon Vegetable Tempura & Salad, Salmon Teriyaki & Shrimp Tempura, Plum Wine, Chicken UdonThey can make vegetarian options happen.There is something for everyone here.No steps and easy to open doors.
Lyn
Lyn -Google user
a year ago
Love love loved this restaurant! Staff were kind, friendly, and our server was just so wonderful! I feel bad because I forgot his name but he was wonderful! My friend and I came here after a long day showing kimono. Loved the food. I got...Read More
Dine inDinner$20–30Atmosphere: 5Shrimp Tempura & SashimiSomewhat difficult to find parkingFree parking lot, Paid street parkingWe parked around the corner at the nearby bank. Not too far but a little spooky at night. No problems with it though. Otherwise there was street parking
Robert Adan Williams
Robert Adan Williams -Google user
a year ago
I've been dining at Ai for more than half of my life — and in fact for more than 2/3 of my 63 years. Ai offers Japanese comfort food at its finest. The cozy home-like atmosphere is always welcoming, and the wait staff is always...Read More
Dine inDinner$20–30Atmosphere: 5Yellowtail KamaSomewhat recommendAgedashi tofu, steamed spinach, mixed vegetable tempura and a few other items are all in the appetizer section, and three of these will be filling enough. There are also vegetarian sushi options.
Peter Hada
Peter Hada -Google user
3 years ago
Lovely Japanese owned restaurant tucked away in South Pasadena. Had wonderful service from Fumi
Dine inLunch$10–20
Robert Braver
Robert Braver -Google user
3 months ago
I'm in from out of state visiting my sister and an old friend. This has been our friend's go-to place for sushi for 30 years, and I can see why. This was a special occasion and Eric took great care of us. Great...Read More
Dine inDinner$30–50Atmosphere: 5
Julia Scott
Julia Scott -Google user
Edited 5 months ago
Ai is a well-priced family restaurant with comfortable booths and large portions. It’s great for occasions and regular outings too. Highly recommend.
Dine inLunch$20–30Atmosphere: 5Chicken Teriyaki Sashimi, Beef Teriyaki, Beef Teriyaki and Sashimi Lunch Combo, Beef Teriyaki and Tempura, Sushi PlatterHighly recommendLarge vegetarian selection
Dim Sum
Dim Sum -Google user
a year ago
For over 30 years, this is one of my favorite Japanese restaurants. When we're in the area shopping or running errands, we like to drop by for their tempura. The tempura is fresh, light and taste great. The servers are nice and friendly. Plenty of...Read More
Dine inLunch$10–20Atmosphere: 5Japanese Beef Teriyaki & Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura
Alvin Luu
Alvin Luu -Google user
Edited 4 months ago
Been coming here for years. Lots of options for food and a nice happy hour. When Joseph works the bar got to get yourself a Joseph special. It's so special you don't know what you're getting that day.
Dine inDinner$10–20Atmosphere: 5Beef Teriyaki, Sushi Platter, Miso Soup & TsukemonoHighly recommendClearly labeled vegetarian dishesPlenty of fried and grilled vegetable options or noodlesGreat for pescetariansPlenty of parkingFree parking lot, Free street parkingKind of hard to exit if you park close. If it's a busy night but you can park farther away and have an easier time to leavePlenty of options for kids too
William Roper
William Roper -Google user
4 months ago
Excellent food. Great personal service
Atmosphere: 5Quiet, easy to talk3-4 peopleNo waitIndoor dining area, Booth seating, Counter seatingSomewhat recommendPlenty of parking
Jim White
Jim White -Google user
7 years ago
Love this place. Totally old school Teriyaki and Tempura - with Sushi for the younger crowd. 😉 I'm sure the decor and music hasn't changed a bit since 1961. It's great. And extremely reasonable priced. Lunch is a steal - under $10! …
Maximos Madrigal
Maximos Madrigal -Google user
a year ago
Good friends took me here for birthday dinner. Wow, great food (felt home good cookin), friendly service, in a down-to- earth atmosphere 🍣🍣🥗🥢
Dine inDinner$30–50Atmosphere: 4Roll, Shrimps RollsHighly recommendVegetarian menu or section
Shawna Selline (The Storywrens)
Shawna Selline (The Storywrens) -Google user
10 years ago
We enjoyed a lovely dinner for 4 tonight. The service was gracious and the food was delicious! This was our second experience dining there and we enjoyed it very much both times. Music was jazz piano but not loud. We...Read More
Teddy Ahn
Teddy Ahn -Google user
2 weeks ago
Been in business for decades...there's a reason why!
Atmosphere: 5
Julia Nielsen
Julia Nielsen -Google user
7 years ago
My family has been eating here for a very long time. The food is delicious, mostly because the quality of the ingredients is very high. This is the only place where I get beef teriyaki because the meat they use is excellent. Their miso soup...Read More

Features

Service options

check icon Outdoor seating
check icon Takeout
check icon Dine-in
Delivery

Highlights

check icon Fast service
check icon Great tea selection

Popular for

check icon Lunch
check icon Dinner
check icon Solo dining

Accessibility

check icon Wheelchair accessible entrance
check icon Wheelchair accessible parking lot
check icon Wheelchair accessible restroom
check icon Wheelchair accessible seating

Offerings

check icon Alcohol
check icon Beer
check icon Cocktails
check icon Comfort food
check icon Happy hour drinks
check icon Happy hour food
check icon Hard liquor
check icon Healthy options
check icon Quick bite
check icon Small plates
check icon Wine

Dining options

check icon Lunch
check icon Dinner
check icon Dessert
check icon Seating

Amenities

check icon Bar onsite
check icon Restroom

Atmosphere

check icon Casual
check icon Cozy
check icon Trendy

Crowd

check icon Groups
check icon Tourists

Planning

check icon Accepts reservations

Payments

check icon Credit cards
check icon Debit cards
check icon NFC mobile payments

Children

check icon High chairs

Parking

check icon Free parking lot