Yoshi's is not just a place where you can catch mind-blowing jazz, but also a sushi bar with an excellent food. Eager music lovers pack the restaurant and the Jazz House on performance nights. It showcases the best talent and boasts of high tech acoustics in the Bay area. A full cocktail menu is available with items like sushi, appetizers, salads and desserts. The attire is causal and the atmosphere jazzed up. It has a top-notch restaurant that serves Japanese food, and is open for lunch and dinner.

Right next to Oakland's Lake Merritt and its "necklace of lights" is the ever-popular Coach Sushi. Coach Sushi serves up high quality sushi of all your favorite varieties along with a full slate of other Japanese dishes. The most popular part of Coach Sushi, however, is their bottomless sake for USD3.50, which upon ordering gets you your own square cedar box which continues to be refilled frequently until you leave.

Mijori is a solid option for those in search of sushi in the Grand Lake area of Oakland. Because this place is very popular and cozy (read: small), the wait can be long. Order the Double Eagle roll and enjoy the complimentary bowl of miso soup. Also on the menu you'll find sashimi, tempura, bento boxes and other Japanese standards. Mijori offers takeout as well. Please note that there is a $15 minimum if you need to use a credit card.

Kansai is located in Oakland's Temescal neighborhood, very close to the Macarthur BART station. This popular restaurant offers an extensive Japanese and sushi menu, and has Happy Hour specials on sushi rolls. Another popular aspect of Kansai is that it's open past midnight, which is always a nice find. The service is attentive, but if you need something, all tables feature little buttons that can summon your server for you.

Ramen Shop is a trendy eatery serving Ramen noodles, a popular Japanese fast food. Done up in dark wood tones, the eatery offers both table seating as well seating at the long counter. The open kitchen offers a fascinating view of chefs churning out sumptuous fare. You can indulge in the umami flavors of the rich broth and a variety of exotic toppings served with your noodles. The Ramen Shop also features a full bar and a selection of interesting cocktails and Japanese whiskey. The restaurant doesn't accept reservations, so it's advisable to be prepared for a wait on the weekend.