San Francisco · Yakitori · a la carte

Sumika Grill

JapaneseYakitoriIzakayaOyakodonJapanese Family Dining

Sumika Grill has anchored downtown Los Altos since 2008, founded by Japanese owner Kuniko Ozawa as an authentic yakitori and izakaya destination. A family-run Ogiku Corporation operation, Sumika is beloved for its charcoal-grilled skewers, oyakodon, and generous small plates.

Price
¥¥
Area
Los Altos
Since
2008
Owner
Kuniko Ozawa / Ogiku Corporation
Sumika Grill — authentic japanese restaurant in San Francisco, Los Altos
Plate № 38
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About
Kuniko Ozawa opened Sumika Grill in Los Altos in 2008 with a direct mission: to bring Japanese yakitori and izakaya culture to the Peninsula. The restaurant, operated by her family's Ogiku Corporation, has become one of the South Bay's most dependable Japanese comfort destinations, with an all-day format spanning lunch and dinner seven days a week. The menu ranges from charcoal-grilled yakitori skewers and sashimi plates to fan-favorite donburi dishes, with the oyakodon and teriyaki consistently drawing regulars. A second location operates in Santa Clara. OpenTable reservations are accepted, though walk-ins are welcome.
Neighborhood & visiting

Sumika Grill sits in Los Altos, one of San Francisco's neighborhoods where authentic Japanese kitchens have taken root. Reservations are available online — for a focused yakitori counter this is strongly recommended. Check the posted hours before you go — traditional yakitori restaurants often close between service periods.

Why it's on Washoku Guide
  • Founded and operated by a Japanese family since 2008 — Sumika is a Peninsula institution built around authentic yakitori charcoal culture.
  • The oyakodon — chicken and egg rice bowl — is considered among the best versions in the South Bay by devoted regulars.
  • Open for both lunch and dinner seven days a week, with an accessible price point that makes it a genuine neighborhood daily.
  • The charcoal grill at the heart of the kitchen produces skewers that recall the izakaya flavor of Japan's backstreet dining culture.

Reservations available on OpenTable. Parties of 6 or more incur an 18% service charge. Catering inquiries should be directed to ogikucorporation@gmail.com. — Format: Izakaya & yakitori restaurant. Authenticity: Founded in 2008 by Japanese owner Kuniko Ozawa (from Japan, opened to bring Japanese culture to the US) and operated by Ogiku Corporation family business. Now with a second location in Santa Clara.

Links

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Frequently asked

About Sumika Grill

Is Sumika Grill an authentic japanese restaurant in San Francisco?
Yes — Sumika Grill is featured in Washoku Guide because it meets our authenticity standard for japanese in San Francisco: a kitchen grounded in Japanese technique, ingredients and preparation consistent with Japanese practice, and a focused yakitori format.
Where is Sumika Grill located?
Sumika Grill is located at 236 Central Plaza, Los Altos, CA 94022, San Francisco, USA in the Los Altos neighborhood.
Do I need a reservation at Sumika Grill?
Sumika Grill accepts reservations online. For an authentic yakitori experience, especially at a focused counter, booking ahead is strongly recommended.
What is the price range at Sumika Grill?
Sumika Grill sits in the ¥¥ price range — typical for japanese of this format in San Francisco.
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