Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

San Jose, CA

North America

United States

# Sumiya – Authentic Japanese Yakitori Restaurant in San Jose, CA
Sumiya is a renowned Japanese yakitori restaurant located in San Jose, CA, celebrated for its authentic flavors and warm ambiance. This culinary gem specializes in grilled skewers, offering a diverse menu that highlights traditional Japanese cuisine. Established with a vision to bring the essence of Japan to the South Bay, Sumiya has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant's inviting atmosphere, combined with attentive service and quality ingredients, has garnered numerous positive reviews, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking an authentic dining experience.

## History
### The story of Sumiya
Sumiya was founded with the vision of creating an authentic Japanese dining experience in the heart of San Jose. Inspired by traditional yakitori restaurants in Japan, the founders aimed to replicate the flavors and atmosphere that characterize these beloved establishments. The commitment to quality and authenticity has been a driving force behind Sumiya's success, allowing it to carve a niche in the competitive restaurant landscape of the South Bay.

### Milestones and growth
- **Opening Year**: Sumiya opened its doors to the public, quickly gaining popularity among local food lovers.
- **Menu Expansion**: Over the years, Sumiya has expanded its menu to include a variety of skewers, bento boxes, and side dishes, catering to diverse tastes.
- **Community Recognition**: The restaurant has received numerous accolades and positive reviews, solidifying its reputation as a top destination for yakitori in the area.
- **Technological Advancements**: Sumiya has embraced technology, implementing a QR code ordering system that enhances the dining experience and streamlines service.

### Cultural and local influence
Sumiya has played a significant role in promoting Japanese culture within the San Jose community. By offering authentic dishes and a welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant has become a gathering place for those seeking to experience Japanese cuisine. The influence of Sumiya extends beyond food; it fosters cultural appreciation and understanding through culinary exploration, attracting both locals and visitors eager to indulge in Japanese traditions.

### Continuing the tradition
Sumiya remains committed to upholding the traditions of Japanese cuisine. The restaurant sources high-quality ingredients and employs skilled chefs who are passionate about their craft. By maintaining a focus on authenticity and customer satisfaction, Sumiya continues to thrive, ensuring that the legacy of traditional yakitori is preserved for future generations.

## Community
### Community involvement
Sumiya actively engages with the local community, participating in events and initiatives that promote cultural exchange and culinary appreciation. The restaurant often collaborates with local organizations to host events that celebrate Japanese culture, providing a platform for community members to come together and share in the joy of food.

### Community notion about the place
The community views Sumiya as a beloved local treasure, known for its delicious food and friendly service. Many patrons express their appreciation for the restaurant's commitment to authenticity and quality, often recommending it to friends and family. The welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff contribute to a positive perception, making Sumiya a go-to destination for both casual diners and special occasions.

### Events and gatherings
Sumiya frequently hosts events that bring the community together, such as food tastings and cultural celebrations. These gatherings not only showcase the restaurant's culinary offerings but also foster connections among community members. By creating a space for shared experiences, Sumiya strengthens its ties to the local area and enhances its role as a cultural hub.

## Offerings
### What Sumiya offers
Sumiya offers a diverse menu centered around yakitori, featuring a wide range of grilled skewers made from high-quality ingredients. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity is evident in every dish, providing diners with a genuine taste of Japan. In addition to skewers, Sumiya also offers bento boxes and various side dishes, ensuring there is something for everyone.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Sumiya is designed to be both enjoyable and memorable. Guests can expect a warm and inviting atmosphere, complemented by the enticing aroma of grilled skewers. The menu features a variety of options, including beef tongue, chicken thighs, and duck breast, allowing diners to explore different flavors and textures. Many patrons rave about the quality of the food, highlighting the freshness and taste of each dish.

### Events and packages
Sumiya offers special events and packages for groups, making it an ideal venue for celebrations and gatherings. Whether it's a birthday party or a casual get-together, the restaurant provides customizable options to suit various needs. These packages often include a selection of skewers, side dishes, and beverages, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for all attendees.

### Facilities and features
- Cozy and inviting ambiance
- Open kitchen design for an interactive dining experience
- QR code ordering system for convenience
- Ample parking available
- Friendly and attentive staff

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Sumiya consistently highlight the restaurant's authentic flavors and attentive service. Many patrons express their satisfaction with the quality of the food, noting that each dish is prepared with care and attention to detail. The warm ambiance and welcoming atmosphere further enhance the overall dining experience.

### Compliments and strengths
- **Authenticity**: Diners appreciate the genuine Japanese flavors and cooking techniques used at Sumiya.
- **Quality Ingredients**: The restaurant is praised for sourcing high-quality meats and fresh produce, contributing to the overall taste of the dishes.
- **Attentive Service**: Many reviews mention the friendly and efficient service provided by the staff, enhancing the dining experience.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
While most reviews are positive, some patrons have noted occasional discrepancies with wait times, particularly during busy hours. Additionally, a few diners have mentioned that certain dishes, such as the salmon, could be improved in terms of temperature and presentation. Despite these minor critiques, the overall consensus remains overwhelmingly positive.

### Summary evaluation
Sumiya stands out as a premier destination for yakitori in San Jose, offering an authentic dining experience that resonates with both locals and visitors. The restaurant's commitment to quality, coupled with its warm atmosphere and attentive service, makes it a beloved establishment in the community. While there may be occasional wait time challenges, the exceptional food and overall experience far outweigh any drawbacks.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Sumiya is conveniently located at 2634 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara, CA, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors. Situated in a vibrant neighborhood, the restaurant is surrounded by various shops and attractions that enhance the overall experience. Guests can explore nearby cultural sites, parks, and shopping areas, making it a perfect stop for a meal after a day of exploration. The welcoming atmosphere and delicious food at Sumiya make it a highlight of any visit to the area.

## FAQs
**What type of cuisine does Sumiya serve** Sumiya specializes in Japanese yakitori and offers a variety of grilled skewers.
**Is there a waitlist system** Yes, Sumiya utilizes a waitlist system through Yelp for convenience.
**Are reservations recommended** While not required, reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.
**What are the operating hours** Sumiya typically operates in the evening, but hours may vary, so checking ahead is advisable.
**Is parking available** Yes, there is ample parking available near the restaurant.

## Visit Sumiya Today
Sumiya invites you to experience authentic Japanese yakitori in a warm and welcoming environment. With a diverse menu that showcases traditional flavors, this restaurant has become a beloved spot in San Jose. The commitment to quality ingredients, attentive service, and community involvement makes Sumiya a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience. Whether you're a yakitori enthusiast or new to Japanese cuisine, Sumiya promises a delightful culinary journey that will keep you coming back for more.

47ddef2a-7775-4023-8e1d-f1b500b25fb7

The most authentic Japanese Yakitori in the South Bay. Feel like you are dining in Japan.

ffb0cf0a-4644-4ea8-980d-29703551a2d2

I personally haven't been a big fan of skewers because I always thought they're overpriced for the quality. But this place definitely changed my mind. My boyfriend and I got: - beef tongue skewers - pork belly skewers - chicken heart skewers - duck breast skewers - salmon & ikura combo set All skewers were really amazing. The pork belly skewers are a must with the green onions. This was also my first time trying chicken hearts and I didn't think I'll like them as much as I do. The salmon was alright.. It was kinda lukewarm which was off-putting. The salad was nothing to write home about but the creamy wasabi dressing had a kick. Also the gobo fries were amazing! They were fried into perfection and were not too salty. TBH, if you don't like burdock root then you need to grow up. Service was super quick and attentive. Would highly recommend to anyone.

d1514cbb-0d38-4d18-8552-4f295c28d6e9

Excellent food and relaxing ambiance . Excellent service. We made a reservation and also came early ( before 7 pm ) .This restaurant is always busy . Three of us ordered 3 different combinations with skewers . The skewers we have beef tongue , chicken thigh , chicken soft bone , beef short ribs , etc . Side dishes we got chicken karaage , agedashi tofu. The combination bento has salad with dressing , rice with raw eggs , toasted seaweed and rice . Good place to eat skewers and have a beer .

e010b06c-7122-4d04-b055-64662d688d5e

It's been awhile since my last visit. I like that the Yelp waitlist system works so I was able to put myself on waitlist before heading over. We ordered the e bento B. I think the on app system payment has been there for awhile but I find it convenient this time when dining in with a friend and we split the bill. When you put in the order with your own phone, you only pay what you order so that's the ease of checking out if you have a big group. Food quality is back to what I expected. Tender meat. The waiter did refill our tea without us asking so service was good.

4f028b58-4207-4860-9125-eced9e97bf81

I absolutely love Sumiya. It's already been reviewed so I just wanna focus on the best parts. If you come, the things you absolutely must get are the scallops, chicken skin, and the duck breast skewers. They were are incredible and I would probably come and just get a couple of each of those. I also enjoyed the pork belly skewers. They weren't anything special but the green onion on the skewer added to it for me. The karaage was alright but a nice shareable appetizer. The bentos themselves were also decent but not mind blowing.

7080a552-497f-4413-9629-e3ffb277c9be

If you're a fan of yakitori, this place is an absolute must-visit! Every visit feels like the first--welcoming, flavorful, and always satisfying. From the moment you step inside, you know you're in for something special. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with the unmistakable aroma of perfectly grilled skewers. The star here, of course, is the food. The quality of the ingredients is evident in every bite. the flavors are spot on. The staff is attentive, friendly, and always willing to offer recommendations. This place will keep you coming back.

5a1b55af-51e6-4aa5-97a7-1247ec956670

We joined the waitlist on yelp. make sure to check in with a person. I think we got skipped even though we check in on yelp. we got the bento with chicken thigh, pork belly and short rib. My favorite was the chicken thigh. we also got the scallop. we chose the headache tofu and karaage chicken. both good. The tofu was lightly battered. I don't like when it so thick. it was a little loud since large groups were sat but service was nice and quick. we got free hot tea. next time i'd like to try the chicken skin. the skewers were juicy and smoky so yummy. I liked the yuzu dressing on the salad

cc249b4f-0f0b-4149-a89c-f707f378ede6

My husband and I have visited Sumiya many times with friends as it's just down the street from us. We put ourselves on the weight list and waited until it was our turn. We found the waitlist quite inaccurate and had to wait on an extra twenty minutes or so than the wait list time. It took us over an hour to get seating for 3 people. Once we got seated, we ordered off the QR code. We ordered quite a bit as my husband and his friends are carnivores lol. We got chicken thighs, chicken gizzard, chicken skin, chicken heart, beef tongue, kalbi, seared salmon with onions, potato fries, salad, mushroom skewers, chicken karage, pork belly and rice. We enjoyed our food and I loved the fries, chicken thighs, mushroom skewers, and salmon appetizer. Most of the meat was tender- the kalbi could have been better. The chicken thighs were juicy! The potato fries really stood out for me as they were hot, crispy, and seasoned well. All our food was $175-a little pricey with fries being $13. It does quickly add up! I think other places may be less inexpensive. Overall, a good experiment but do be prepared to wait a while and spend a pretty penny.

1157bdab-c001-4946-bc4c-bb2c9315f5c7

Incredible food! Everything we got delicious, fresh, and flavorful. You order through the QR code and service was fast. It's average size with an open kitchen, which was pretty cool. Highly recommend!

16ef6d63-6d72-480b-b8a1-ee6f8fa72cb3

Sumiya is a popular local Japanese Yakitori place. The food here is decent and I especially like their chicken soft bones and Sapporo in the pitcher. The service is surprisingly fast when you order food via cell phone app. The Ambience is nice too and is great for friends to hang out. There are plenty of parking outside as the restaurant is in the strip mall.

Discover Sumiya in Santa Clara, CA—an authentic restaurant offering delicious Japanese cuisine. Experience unique flavors and warm ambiance. Book your table now.

Sumiya Restaurant in Santa Clara, CA | Authentic Japanese Cuisine

Santa Clara County

Sumiya

California

Explore the full menu at Sumiya in San Jose, CA. Discover signature dishes, drinks & must-try items. Visit us at 2634 Homestead Rd, Santa Clara.

Sumiya Menu – Food & Drinks in San Jose, CA

Learn about Sumiya, a premier restaurant in San Jose, CA. Experience authentic Japanese cuisine, cozy ambiance, and friendly service. Located at 2634 Homestead Rd.

About Sumiya in San Jose, CA

Opening hours for Sumiya, San Jose, CA. Find opening hours for Sumiya at 2634 Homestead Rd, San Jose, CA on our website.

Sumiya Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Sumiya

ToBang

Cooking Cooking

Main Street Bagels