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Thai Island

4.0 (305 reviews)
InexpensiveThai, Sushi Bars, Japanese
Closed 11:00 am - 3:00 pm, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Thai Island Photos

Business Info

THAI ISLAND ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Casual
Good for groups
Good for kids

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Green curry and pork pad see eew
Gabriel M.

Thai Island is the best Thai restaurant in all of San Diego. Their food is made to the highest quality and their authentic flavors are unmatched. Even with their amazing food, the prices at Thai Island are very reasonable and won't break the bank. Their curry is addicting! You can't go wrong between the red, green, or yellow curry. My wife loves their pork fried rice too. Also, they are REALLY consistent with their spice levels, we never get a randomly hot or mild dish when we order our standard 7/10 and 5/10 spiciness. The service is also always great. The restaurant is ran by a husband and wife; he does the cooking and she takes the orders and serves it! You won't be disappointed and you'll want to come back.

Menu
Elizabeth N.

Small restaurant downtown SD within walking distance where we staying. Great little find as it was super reasonable pricing for the location. The owner was super sweet and friendly; she been running this restaurant for a quarter of century. We got the Tom Ka soup, Pad See Eww, Pad Thai and Sesame Chicken. All delicious, freshly made and come out in a timely manner. I thought it was so well price and delicious; we came back the next day for the lunch as to go order. I would recommend and will come back. Parking can be a challenge since it's downtown.

Island fried rice and spring rolls.
Angela E.

We have been ordering from Thai Island for the past 4 years. The service is always exceptional ... not once has there been an error with an order And the food... Some of the best Thai food we've ever had. Tonight's order was just absolutely delicious. We had the spring rolls, green curry with chicken, and the island fried rice. Everything was perfect, and the spice level was exactly as we ordered. They never disappoint!!

Chicken Yellow Curry (spicy level 5), Chicken Drunken Noodles (SL 5), Chicken Pad Thai
Brady V.

This place is 10 out of 10 wonderful. The food was some of the best Thai I've had anywhere in San Diego. I've been living the downtown for 10 years and I am just now finding out about this spot but it's been around for 25 years (I think she said). I met one of the owners who was very kind and told me about the restaurant, and made sure I had everything I needed before I left with my takeout. She seemed to really care about her customers asking if I had been there before, do I live close by, etc... We got chicken pad thai, drunken noodles, and yellow curry and honestly all the dishes were delicious. We got medium spicy (5) but you can go up to 10. This place doesn't taste like an average Thai place, but instead a secret recipes kind of place. The portions are big and prices are literally the best in all the area. This will be my go to Thai spot from now on even tho we live by little Italy.

Pad Se Ew and Gyoza. Half now and half for lunch tomorrow.

This spot is owned and operated by husband and wife. If it's busy- it takes a j by it longer to get seated, but it's well worth it! The flavors are fabulous, and the prices are even better. They no longer have a lunch special, but their prices are so affordable that it doesn't matter.

Fred T.

Looking for a restaurant near our hotel ran into Thai Island. Looks like at one time it was vibrant and popular but things appeared a bit dated. One other issue was while service was good, it seemed off no condiments were on the table. Our meal was freshly prepared and very tasty. Again, nice place but more old school.

Christine B.

I've been coming to this fun little joint for years now. They have phenomenal food at such reasonable prices that it is a must have on anyone's "go to" list of fun eats. Their lunch specials are enormous and packed with exceptional flavour which is consistent from visit to visit. One this particular day I order chicken Pad Thai. Their sushi rolls are also a great value considering the quantity and quality of fish included. The restaurant is a cozy little gem on 7th Ave. There are 4 tables inside and 2 patio tables outside. For a dine-in visit you'll have to weave through the grid of the Gas Lamp to find a coveted parking spot. But it's worth the effort IMO. Tip: they also offer the option of calling in a pick-order and bringing your food to your car if you pull up for brief moment out front. You must stay in your car. Do not park there or you will be ticketed.

Vegan Curry with white rice

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4 months ago

The food here is so fresh and delicious & the service was perfect! We had a great time, we'll be back soon!

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1 year ago

Food was very good. Fried rice and green curry, both with chicken and medium heat. Owner is a cool lady, knows her business and her menu.

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Hatsuzakura - Ichigo Daifuku - Original and Matcha flavored

Hatsuzakura

4.4(569 reviews)
3.3 miUniversity Heights
$$

Ate here with my sister and mom on a Saturday around 11 when they opened. Tables were already…read morefilled up inside. Asked for a table outside but they told us there are only 2 person tables out there. So we sat at the bar. It's a super small place but adds to the authenticity. Me and my sister both ordered the Omurice. Been wanting to try this dish and it was really flavorful and filling. My mom ordered the Guratan and is basically an elevated Japanese mac n cheese. It was delicious but super creamy and she got tired of it real quick. For dessert we got the Ichigo Daifuku, which was mochi w/fruit and red bean paste inside. Good but nothing I haven't had before. I also had a hojica latte, my sister got the matcha, and my mom had the cafe au lait. All iced and delicious. The ladies making the drinks at the counter were kind and attentive. Great for the vibes and ambiance. But I probably won't come back just for the food alone.

Honestly this place is so good. The atmosphere genuinely feels like you walked into a cafe in Japan…read moreit's cozy, cute, and nothing like your typical San Diego restaurant. It's based on the kissaten café style from Japan and you can really feel that when you're sitting there. Servers were friendly and attentive as well The omurice was amazing. fluffy egg over brisket fried rice with a house-made demi-glace that all just works together really well. Got the earl grey lavender tea to go with it and that combo alone is worth the trip. Already planning to come back and try more of the menu.

Photos
Hatsuzakura - Interior view from front to back

Interior view from front to back

Hatsuzakura - Guratan with Asahi Beer

Guratan with Asahi Beer

Hatsuzakura - Eggs salad sandwich

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Eggs salad sandwich

Wa Dining OKAN - Rib Eye and Scallop X2

Wa Dining OKAN

4.3(1.5k reviews)
6.7 miKearny Mesa
$$

We got the agedashi tofu and the deep fried baby octopus to share. Love both of these sides, the…read moretofu was extremely soft and flavorful and the octopus was crunchy, chewy, and just so flavorful. I got the Nabeyaki Udon, it was delicious, hearty, and filling. It really hit the spot on a cold cloudy day. The broth was light and clear and the udon was bouncy and chewy. I also loved all the ingredients, the chicken was tender and the shrimp tempera were light and crunchy.

This is a low-key long-standing local spot with mostly regulars. Tucked right next to Nijiya…read moreMarket, it never relies on marketing--only authentic home-style flavors and consistent quality keep customers coming back. It's a cozy Japanese izakaya with warm yellow lighting, just like a traditional neighborhood pub in Tokyo. Perfect for casual drinks and enjoying a genuine laid-back vibe. I ordered the eel kamameshi, which took about 20 minutes to serve. Their house-marinated eel is incredibly fragrant. The Creamy Mentai Udon is a must-try: rich creamy flavor, savory pollock roe with no fishy taste, and perfectly chewy noodles that are absolutely addictive. Their grilled beef tongue is cooked to perfection--tender, juicy, and well-balanced in salt and sweetness. The teppanyaki is also very flavorful. Price range is mid to high, around $40+ per person. The staff gives off classic old-restaurant regular vibes: efficient and no overly formal small talk. It feels like a neighborhood comfort spot--warm and relaxed without forced hospitality.

Photos
Wa Dining OKAN - Partial view of indoor dining

Partial view of indoor dining

Wa Dining OKAN - Fried baby octopus

Fried baby octopus

Wa Dining OKAN - "Tamago" + unagi

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"Tamago" + unagi

Azuki Sushi

Azuki Sushi

4.4(3.6k reviews)
0.9 miBanker's Hill
$$$
Takes reservations
Vegan friendly

Man, these guys are consistently producing high quality dishes in a modern, chic ambiance with…read morefriendly service. We were lucky to snag a table on Thursday night for two without any resy's. We were offered a two person table upstairs, which I prefer. Started with the Azuki salad that's perfect for sharing. The dressing is light and lots on the plate including avocado, taro chips, cucumber, and apples. Textures and flavors go so well together. I also got a spicy tuna hand roll, the Kobe Roll, and a few nigiri's including Hamachi, Chutoro, and Salmon belly. All were delicious but the Chutoro was the fave. Finished dinner with a burnt butter mochi cake complete with ice cream and some strawberry sauce. Def glad we stopped in and will def be back for more.

Food: Overall the food isn't bad but I didn't find anything…read moremind blowing or special as it was made out to be because I know how popular this spot is. Although, it was still enjoyable! Crispy Rice & Spicy Tuna (9/10) - loved the crisp and the flavor. it wasn't too spicy and the spice was more for a little kick of flavor Stardust (7/10) - wasn't as citrusy as i thought with the lemon but tasted fine. it was basic in flavor but still good Spicy Salmon Hand Roll (8/10) - it was made well and it was good but nothing too special either Super Dragon (9/10) - the sweet potato was such an interesting and nice touch. really good flavor combination Service: Service is a bit slow since the beginning even to seat you even with a reservation but they remained very kind throughout the experience. Ambiance: It's a bit small but we were sat upstairs in another room with seating and since it's small, when it's packed it can get really loud with everyone talking. The vibes of the place is dimlit and not too upscale but also not too casual. It's just a very nice restaurant vibes

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Azuki Sushi
Azuki Sushi
Azuki Sushi

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Yakitori Taisho - Pork belly

Yakitori Taisho

4.4(556 reviews)
8.1 miClairemont
$$

A great little yakitori spot in an unsuspecting strip mall. Weirdly tucked in the back beside the…read moreSmart & Final, this little shop has an authentic and extensive menu. Love the wings, garlic, edamame, chicken heart, and quail eggs! It gets busy so try to call ahead an hour or two for a reservation. Definitely worth hitting up! Update: Came back tonight with my mom after a two year absence because my mom was craving beef tongue. Everything was even better than I remember. The wait staff was super friendly and accommodating. I loved the quail eggs, chicken wings, beef tongue with wasabi, and brussel sprouts. This is by far one of the best yakitori spots in San Diego. Highly recommend! Remember to call and make a reservation the day before! Update 2: Still insanely good. Call before for a reservation. Top items: Brussel sprouts, beef tongue, fried garlic, smashed fresh wasabi. This place is the gift that keeps on giving!

Wow! This place is equal or better than the yakitori I've had in Japan. They grill the yakitori…read moreperfectly with the aroma of charcoal. Literally everything was good including the braised wasabi beef that was so tender and flavorful. We had everything on the yakitori menu except the vein and again nothing disappointed. The beef skewers were good but the chicken skewers were the stars. Although the bacon wrapped pork belly was exceptional and my wife's favorite. The customer service was fantastic. They would come by to drop off or take our order. Make sure you make reservations because this place is very busy.

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Yakitori Taisho - Legit

Legit

Yakitori Taisho - Scallop and Squid Legs

Scallop and Squid Legs

Yakitori Taisho - Sake bombs!

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Sake bombs!

Tanuki - Exterior

Tanuki

4.4(523 reviews)
4.4 miKensington
$$

Such a cute hole‑in‑the‑wall spot on the tail end of Kensington! I had no idea this place existed…read morefor years, but I'm so glad I finally found it. Located in a small shopping center with a few parking spaces, Tanuki is a great tapas and standard sushi spot. It leans more toward Asian‑fusion tapas with some sushi rolls and a limited selection of nigiri and sashimi. If you're looking for specialty fish, a huge roll list, or omakase, this isn't that kind of sushi place. But if you want a wide selection of sake, fun fusion tapas, and some classic sushi options, this is your spot. I love that they have a small bar and that cozy, true hole‑in‑the‑wall feel. The staff is friendly, the vibe is relaxed, and it's the perfect place to come alone, with a friend, or for a casual date night. The quality is solid, and the service is fast and welcoming. They also have some great sake and green‑tea‑based drinks. I love it here -- definitely a go‑to spot for us.

Arrived around 6:30pm and were seated at an outside table. Table for 4 and we ordered quite a few…read moredishes to share. Based on reviews, the Sake Wasa appeared to be popular so we gave it a try. I'm not a big fan of wasabi but this one was good. The crispy rice, salmon carpaccio, roasted striped bass, spicy scallop roll, spider roll . . . All good. The fish was fresh and they were all light. Also ordered a panna cotta and matcha cheesecake - both were good as well and nice way to finish our meal. At no time did we feel rushed. Service was friendly and they checked on us often.

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Tanuki - Exterior

Exterior

Tanuki - TANUKI

TANUKI

Tanuki - Interior

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Interior

Izakaya Masa - Ochazuke

Izakaya Masa

4.2(1.5k reviews)
2.5 miMission Hills
$$

How have I not been here before! This not-so-hidden gem is probably one of the best sushi spots…read moreI've been to in San Diego. My friend and I met up for dinner and put our names down at 5:15pm. We were there 15 minutes before they opened. Although, we were eighth in line, we were seated first since no one else was around. Once we were seated, our server came around and took our order for drinks and appetizer. We started with seaweed salad, fried gyoza, and tuna carpaccio. The tuna carpaccio was delicious and I loved the garlic. I wanted to order everything on the menu, but was sold on the rolls. I ordered the spicy hamachi roll and the cherry blossom roll, which was recommended by the server. Both rolls were the freshest sushi I've had in a long time. The flavors were perfect and they weren't flashy rolls. They were classic rolls that showcased the fish so well. The service was incredible, everyone was so friendly and I really enjoyed the whole experience. I can't wait to come back, especially on a colder day to try their ramen!

They do have a list outside where you put your name down. We came a little early knowing there…read morewould be a line. I genuinely thought people were exaggerating how great this place was, especially when it came to authenticity. They were not. Not one item we ordered was bad and we ordered about 20 dishes. The ramen was the absolute winner. Best ramen I have had in San Diego. I was blown away by the broth and the noodles. The sushi was great, including the spicy tuna. Everything tasted fresh and fairly priced. You really can't beat these prices. The fried chicken and tuna carpaccio were standout appetizers. Honorable mention to the chicken katsu roll. It was insanely massive and so good. We will absolutely be back to try more appetizers and the ramen. We recently went to Japan and this ramen has been the closest we have had to what we experienced there. I didn't even take a picture of it before it was in my stomach!

Photos
Izakaya Masa
Izakaya Masa - Green tea mochi

Green tea mochi

Izakaya Masa - Green tea mochi

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Green tea mochi

Thai Island - thai - Updated May 2026

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