Welcome to Inaka Japanese Restaurant
Inaka Japanese Restaurant, nestled in San Juan Bautista, was a beloved culinary haven that blended authentic Japanese flavors with a warm, inviting atmosphere. Known for their exquisite donburi, crispy tempura, and comforting miso soup, locals often deemed it the best Japanese dining experience in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties. The restaurant catered to a wide array of dietary preferences, offering vegan and vegetarian options in a chic yet casual setting. Families flocked to Inaka for memorable dinners, celebrating both everyday moments and special occasions. Its closing marked the end of an era, leaving a lasting impact on the community and countless heartfelt memories.
Inaka Japanese Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings
Unfortunately, Inaka's permanently closed its doors on March 31, 2025. Inaka's was a wonderful restaurant and we frequented it often. They will be greatly missed.
What a loss for our community! We enjoyed our last meal tonight and EVERY SINGLE other time we've been here. You will be deeply missed. Thank you for all of the wonderful family dinners you provided the Haneta family.
Food is very good and the staff was all so friendly. Came for dinner with a large group but the place was full when we left. Ordered the sushi which came with small salad and miso soup (not pictured). It is a hidden gem that the regulars know about. Great place to bring the family for authentic Japanese food.
Sadly, they have announced they are closing for good March 30th. They've been in SJB 6 years, the restaurant biz is tough!
Best Japanese food in all Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties per my husband who's from Japan.
I had a great experience at Inaka yesterday... I have a sesame seed and sesame oil allergy and the staff went above and beyond to make sure I didn't have any kind of sesame on my food.. I usually avoid eating at Chinese or Japanese restaurants because they never can accommodate me ... I'm so happy I found a Japanese place that I can eat at that won't make me break out in hives 5 stars!
Happened upon this cozy little Japanese restaurant in San Juan, purely by accident.... the traffic into Hollister was so bad that we decided to explore the area... honestly hadn't stopped by in years and stumbling on this little gem was well worth the stop! The staff here is very friendly and eager to point you to an available table or recommend something delicious to tickle your tastebuds! While the portion sizes could use a little work, the flavors are definitely a highlight. Everything arrived to the table rather quickly, so that's also a plus. The simple and clean aesthetic of this spot is the icing on the cake. Definitely enjoyed the experience and look forward to future stops here!
We moved from Santa Cruz to Hollister in 2021. We tried the places in Hollister but none of them compared to the sushi we'd get on Santa Cruz or Watsonville. We decided to check out Inaka after we learned the owners had owned Miyuki in Watsonville. We were blown away and this is now our go to sushi spot when we are home. The dinning rooms are clean, modern and inviting. The staff is so attentive and kind, they always load our 3yr old up with as much miso soup as she can eat. The servers always chat with her and she genuinely enjoys going even if she's not super adventurous yet. Our teens love the California Rolls and Shrimp Tempura. Hubby and I truly enjoy everything we order. There has never been a roll we've ordered and regretted. Their hot items are full of flavor and the menu has lots of options. I have heard others in the area say that it's pricey but you totally get what you pay for. Honestly I think here you get more than what you pay for. You can tell this fish is super fresh, they have some of the best quality sashimi I've ever had. We are looking forward to many more family dinners here!
Incredibly surprising to find an authentic Japanese restaurant in San Juan Bautista! Tried the nasushige age appetizer (not even common in LA), chirashi, and nagemono (also not common). Relaxed vibe from an airy, well-spaced interior. Service was friendly, dropping by our table with frequency. Especially close and convenient to the Posada de San Juan hotel (same block). Definitely worth a visit if you are in the mood for Japanese food.
Location
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313 Third St, San Juan Bautista, CA 95045 Hotline: (831) 593-5100
Inaka Japanese Restaurant, nestled in the heart of San Juan Bautista, CA, was a cherished gem among locals and a beacon of authentic Japanese cuisine. Known for its casual yet classy ambiance, Inaka offered an extensive menu that combined tradition with innovation, catering to all palates, including ample vegan and vegetarian options. Although it has tragically closed, the mark it left on the community will surely linger on.
From savory udon bowls featuring tender beef, pork, or succulent tempura to delightful children's plates like beef teriyaki and tempura, every dish was created to bring comfort and joy. The restaurant also boasted a variety of soups and salads, such as the refreshing sunomono and the classic miso soup, perfect for either a light bite or as a starter to your meal.
- Transportation: With street parking available and expansive outdoor seating, Inaka made it easy for families and groups to enjoy their dining experience.
- Community Hub: The restaurant was not just a place to eat but a gathering spot for families, highlighted by Chris T.'s comment about its hidden gem status within the local community.
- Warm Atmosphere: Frequent patrons appreciated the friendly staff and the moderately lively ambiance that fostered great conversations and laughter.
Inaka also made a conscious effort to be inclusive, offering gender-neutral restrooms and accommodating dogs on the patio, creating a welcoming environment for everyone. With its commitment to quality and hospitality, Inaka Japanese Restaurant became a favorite for family dinners and romantic evenings alike.
While the closing of Inaka on March 31, 2025, has left a void in the local dining scene, the love expressed by its devoted patrons ensures that its legacy will be remembered fondly in the community. For many, dining at Inaka was not just about the food; it was about creating cherished memories with loved ones over a table filled with delicious authentic Japanese dishes.
As we look back on what Inaka meant to each of us, we celebrate the culinary artistry and warm atmosphere that turned a simple restaurant into a beloved community treasure. Its spirit will undoubtedly live on in the stories and meals shared by those who were lucky enough to experience its charm.
