Izakaya Mai: Your Go-To Spot for Authentic Japanese Fare in San Mateo, CA

Izakaya Mai Introduce

For Californians seeking a diverse and authentic taste of Japan, look no further than Izakaya Mai in San Mateo. This popular Asian restaurant offers a comprehensive Japanese dining experience, blending traditional flavors with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. An izakaya, in Japanese culture, is a casual Japanese bar that serves alcoholic drinks and snacks, and Izakaya Mai truly embodies this spirit by providing a vast menu that goes far beyond just sushi.

Izakaya Mai has become a local fixture in San Mateo, drawing in crowds with its extensive selection of Japanese dishes, from comforting noodle soups and robust curry rice to various small plates perfect for sharing, and a selection of sushi. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a full meal, or a place to unwind with friends over beer towers, Izakaya Mai offers a flexible and engaging dining experience that caters to a wide array of preferences, making it a true gem for residents across the Golden State.

Location and Accessibility

You’ll find Izakaya Mai conveniently situated at 212 2nd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA. This prime location places it in the bustling heart of downtown San Mateo, an area renowned for its vibrant culinary scene and lively atmosphere. Its position on 2nd Avenue makes it easily accessible for locals residing in San Mateo and the broader Bay Area, whether they are commuting, enjoying an evening out, or exploring the city.

When it comes to accessibility, Izakaya Mai benefits from being in a well-established urban area. While street parking can sometimes be competitive during peak hours, San Mateo offers several City-owned parking garages and lots nearby. These facilities often provide free parking after 6 p.m. every day, on Sundays, and on City-designated holidays, significantly easing the parking situation for evening diners. Notable nearby garages include the Central Garage and Second and El Camino Garage, both offering hourly rates. Additionally, being in a central downtown location means it's well-served by public transportation, including Caltrain and bus routes, providing convenient options for those who prefer not to drive. This ease of access ensures that enjoying a meal at Izakaya Mai is a hassle-free experience for most Californians.

Services Offered

Izakaya Mai offers an expansive menu designed to cater to a wide range of tastes within Japanese cuisine. Their services include:

Extensive Dine-in Menu: They provide a comprehensive menu featuring various categories of Japanese food, allowing guests to explore different flavors and dishes. Categories include Noodles (Ramen, Udon, Soba), Donburi (Rice Bowls), Japanese Curry Rice, Izakaya Tapas, Deep Fried items, Entrees, Nigiri (Sushi), Classic Rolls, Special Rolls, Roll Combinations, Sushi Combinations, Temaki (Hand Rolls), Deep Fried Rolls, Baked Rolls, and items from the Sushi Bar.
Late-Night Hours: A significant highlight, Izakaya Mai is known for its late-night operating hours, remaining open until midnight every day (Sunday to Saturday). This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a delicious Japanese meal or drinks after other establishments have closed.
Diverse Izakaya Tapas: True to its izakaya nature, the restaurant offers a wide selection of small plates perfect for sharing. These include items like Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancakes), Hamachi Kama (grilled yellowtail collar), Pork Kakuni (braised pork belly), Gyoza, Yakitori (chicken skewers), Shishito Pepper, and various grilled fish options, providing a authentic "tapas" style experience.
Sushi and Rolls: While some reviews suggest it's not their primary specialty, Izakaya Mai still offers a palatable selection of classic and special rolls, nigiri, and sashimi. Popular rolls include the California Roll, Oregon Roll (salmon), Miami Roll (tuna), and the "Crazy Monkey" roll.
Hearty Main Dishes: Beyond the smaller plates, they offer substantial meals such as Japanese Katsu Curry Rice, various ramen options (including Izakaya Original Champon and Curry Ramen), and Donburi (rice bowls like Una-Tama Don and Beef Donburi).
Bento Boxes: For a complete and convenient meal, they offer Bento Boxes with combinations of 2 or 3 items, served with miso soup and rice.
Alcoholic Beverages: As a traditional izakaya, they offer an extensive selection of Japanese beers, sake (cold and hot), and shochu. The option of "beer towers" is popular for groups.
Takeout and Delivery: For customer convenience, Izakaya Mai offers both pickup and delivery services through popular platforms like Postmates, Uber Eats, and DoorDash, allowing customers to enjoy their favorite dishes at home.

Features / Highlights

Izakaya Mai boasts several features that contribute to its popularity among California locals, despite some varying customer feedback:

Expansive Menu Variety: One of its strongest features is the sheer breadth of its menu. From sushi and sashimi to various noodle dishes (ramen, udon, soba), hearty curry plates, and a comprehensive selection of izakaya small plates, there's truly something for everyone, making it suitable for groups with diverse preferences.
Authentic Izakaya Vibe: The restaurant is often described as having a "nice izakaya vibe" or feeling like a "comfy cozy restaurant in Asia," with a dimly lit and well-decorated interior. This authentic ambiance contributes significantly to the dining experience, especially for those seeking a traditional Japanese pub atmosphere.
Late-Night Dining: Being open until midnight seven days a week is a major highlight, providing a valuable option for late-night meals or drinks, a service not commonly offered by all Japanese restaurants in the area.
Popular Signature Dishes: Certain items receive consistent praise. The "Crazy Monkey roll" is noted for its size and flavor. The Japanese Katsu Curry Rice is highlighted as "amazing value" and "flavorful with crispy and tender meat." The Hamachi Kama (grilled yellowtail collar) is also specifically mentioned as "perfectly cooked."
Beer Towers Available: For groups, the availability of beer towers adds a fun, communal element to the dining experience, which is a characteristic feature of izakayas.
Value for Money: Despite mixed service reviews, some customers find the portion sizes and pricing to offer "amazing value," particularly for dishes like the Katsu Curry Rice.
Long-Standing Presence: Being described as a "classic San Mateo" spot that has "been here forever" (or at least for a significant period) indicates its established presence and popularity within the local community, suggesting a loyal customer base.

Promotions or Special Offers

Izakaya Mai occasionally offers specific promotions, particularly through their online ordering platforms. These are designed to attract customers and provide good value for money. Based on available public data, here are some examples of promotions you might find:

Sushi Lover Combos: Izakaya Mai features "Lover Sushi Combos" which are promotional bundles designed for fans of specific fish types. For example:
- SALMON LOVER SUSHI COMBO: Includes 5 pcs. Freshly cut Salmon Sashimi + 4 pcs. Salmon Nigiri + Salmon maki + Oregon roll + FREE DRINK! (No substitution).
- HAMACHI LOVER SUSHI COMBO: Includes 5 pcs. Freshly cut Yellowtail (Hamachi) Sashimi + 4 pcs. Yellowtail Nigiri + Negihama maki + Negihama hand roll + FREE DRINK! (No substitution).
- TUNA LOVER SUSHI COMBO: Includes 5 pcs. Freshly cut Tuna Sashimi + 4 pcs. Tuna Nigiri + Tekka maki + Miami roll + FREE DRINK! (No substitution).
Food & Alcohol Combos: They also offer combinations that pair a main dish with an alcoholic beverage, such as the "Izakaya Original Champon and alcohol combo," which includes creamy pork broth noodles topped with stir-fried veggies, pork, seafood mix, and fish cakes, served with a choice of alcoholic drink.
Online Delivery Platform Promotions: While specific to the platform, services like Postmates and Uber Eats sometimes offer incentives like "free delivery on your first order" from Izakaya Mai, or through their subscription services (e.g., Postmates Unlimited).

It is always recommended to check their official website (if available) or their listings on popular delivery platforms like Postmates, Uber Eats, and DoorDash for the most current and active promotions before placing an order or visiting.

Contact Information

To experience the diverse Japanese menu and lively atmosphere of Izakaya Mai, or to place an order for pickup or delivery, you can use the following contact details:

Address: 212 2nd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA
Phone: (650) 347-2511

Given its popularity, especially on weekend nights, it's a good idea to consider arriving early or checking for current wait times if you're planning a dine-in visit during peak hours.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For California locals, especially those in the bustling Bay Area, Izakaya Mai in San Mateo stands out as a highly suitable and compelling Asian restaurant choice, particularly for Japanese cuisine. Its prime location on 2nd Avenue in downtown San Mateo ensures easy accessibility, with various parking options nearby and strong public transport links. This convenience makes it a practical spot for a spontaneous dinner, a planned gathering, or a late-night craving, fitting seamlessly into the busy lives of Californians.

The true strength of Izakaya Mai lies in its expansive and diverse menu. Unlike restaurants that specialize in just one area, Izakaya Mai offers a broad spectrum of Japanese dishes, from classic sushi and rolls (like the popular "Crazy Monkey" roll) to hearty ramen and udon bowls, satisfying Japanese curry rice, and an array of authentic izakaya tapas. This extensive selection means there’s something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for groups with varied tastes or for individuals who enjoy exploring different facets of Japanese gastronomy. For instance, while one customer might praise the perfectly cooked "Hamachi kama," another might rave about the "solid" chicken katsu curry or the hearty "buta nasu."

Furthermore, its lively izakaya atmosphere and late-night operating hours truly set it apart. Being packed on a Thursday night with "beer towers flowing" speaks to its vibrant energy, perfect for those seeking a dynamic dining experience. The ability to enjoy a full Japanese meal well into the evening is a significant advantage for many locals. While some customer feedback points to occasional service challenges, the overall sentiment regarding the food quality and the engaging ambiance suggests that Izakaya Mai provides a valuable and enjoyable dining option for Californians seeking a comprehensive and authentic taste of Japan right in their backyard.

Izakaya Mai Food & drink

PROMOTION
SALMON LOVER SUSHI COMBO US$48.75
- 5 pcs. Freshly cut Salmon Sashimi + 4 pcs. Salmon Nigiri + Salmon maki + Oregon roll + FREE DRINK! (No substitution)
Tuna Lover US$48.75
- 5 pcs. Freshly cut Tuna Sashimi + 4 pcs. Tuna Nigiri + Tekka maki + Miami roll + FREE DRINK! (No substitution)
HAMACHI LOVER SUSHI COMBO US$48.75
- 5 pcs. Freshly cut Yellowtail(Hamachi) Sashimi + 4 pcs. Yellowtail Nigiri + Negihama maki + Negihama hand roll + FREE DRINK! (No substitution)

Noodles
Curry Ramen Noodle US$18.75
Japanese curry over ramen noodle with mixed seafood, veggies, fish cakes, green onions, jalapeno and sesame seed on top. Served hot.
Yaki Udon US$19.35
Stir fried udon noodle with mixed seafood, pork, veggies, yaki soba sauce, sesame seed and fish flakes on top. Thin noodle made from wheat flour.
Soba / Udon
The broth is made of dashi, soy sauce, and mirin. Comes with fish cakes, marinated mushrooms, and green onions. Served hot.
Hiyashi Chuka Noodle US$18.35
Cold ramen noodle topped with crab sticks, grilled pork, egg, seaweed, cucumber, fish cakes, served with spicy mustard and homemade hiyashi chuka sauce. Served cold.
Zaru Udon US$12.50
Cold udon topped with dry shredded seaweed served with green onions and homemade dipping sauce. Served cold.
Zaru Soba US$12.50
Cold soba topped with dry shredded seaweed served with green onions and homemade dipping sauce. Served cold.
Izakaya Original Champon Noodle US$19.35
Served hot. Creamy pork broth topped with stir fried veggies, pork, seafood mix, fish cakes, sesame seeds and green onions.
Ramen Noodle US$16.00
Comes with seaweed, fish cakes, green onions and 2 pieces chashu (Japanese braised pork belly). Served hot.
Curry Champon Noodle US$20.35
Served hot. Creamy pork broth with Japanese curry topped with stir fried veggies, pork, seafood mix, fish cakes, seasame seed, jalapeno and green onions.

Donburi
Unagi Don US$22.50
Eel over rice with homemade unagi sauce, Japanese yellow radish, shredded dry seaweed and sesame seed.
Chicken Teriyaki Don US$13.95
Grilled chicken with homemade teriyaki sauce served over rice. No egg, no donburi sauce and no onions.
Tempura Don US$16.50
Shrimp tempura and egg served over rice.
Miso Buta Don US$16.50
Stir fried pork, onions with miso paste served over rice. No egg and no donburi sauce.
Tamago Don US$11.95
Egg and onions served over rice.
Una Tama Don US$18.50
Eel and egg served over rice.
Katsu Don US$16.50
Pork or chicken cutlet and egg served over rice.
Oyako Don US$13.95
Chicken and egg served over rice.
Tanin Don US$16.50
Thin slices beef and egg served over rice.
Vegetable Tempura Don US$16.50
Veggie tempura and egg served over rice.
Ochazuke US$9.75
Rice in hot green tea, topped with pickled Ume plum, salmon, or spicy cod roe along with seaweed and seasonings.

Japanese Curry Rice
Japanese Katsu Curry Rice US$16.95
Pork cutlet Japanese curry over rice served with red pickles.
Japanese Curry Rice US$14.35
Japanese curry over rice served with red pickles.

Tapas
Short Ribs US$16.75
Korean style marinated and grilled beef.
Hokke US$17.00
Grilled atka mackerel with ponzu sauce.
1 Piece Sake Shioyaki A La Carte US$9.50
Grilled salmon with salt.
Onion Salad US$5.50
Homemade ponzu sauce with fish flakes on top.
Chuka Kurage US$6.50
Japanese style jelly fish.
Hamachi Kama US$18.50
Grilled yellowtail collar with ponzu sauce.
2 Pieces Yaki Onigiri US$8.00
Grilled rice balls with homemade onigiri sacuce on top with marinated salmon and spicy cod roe inside each.
2 Pieces Ebi Shioyaki US$11.00
Grilled prawn.
Oshitashi US$5.50
Spinach with ponzu sauce and fish flakes on top.
1 Piece Sake Teriyaki A La Carte US$9.50
Grilled salmon with homemade teriyaki sauce.
Potato Salad US$5.00
Vegetarian. Homemade Japanese style mashed potatoes.
Samma US$10.00
Grilled saury.
Unagi Kabayaki US$13.50
Grilled eel with homemade unagi sauce and sesame seeds on top.
Asari Sakamushi US$18.00
Steamed clams with sake and mirin. Served in hot.
Calamari Steak US$10.00
Grilled thin slices of calamari with spicy mayo and sesame seeds.
2 Pieces Yakitori US$6.50
Grilled chicken and green onions skewers with salt.
Chicken TeriyakI A La Carte US$8.50
Appetizer portion of grilled chicken with homemade teriyaki sauce.
1 Piece Saba Shioyaki A La Carte US$8.00
Beef Teriyaki A La Carte US$11.00
Appetizer portion of grilled beef with homemade teriyaki sauce.
6 Pieces Kurobuta Sausage US$8.50
Grilled Japanese pork sausages served with spicy mustard.
Tamago Yaki US$7.00
Sweet Japanese omelette.
Pork Kakuni US$9.50
Homemade Japanese style pork belly marinated in soy sauce served with spicy mustard and green onions.
Shishito Pepper US$6.00
Vegetarian. Grilled Japanese chili pepper skewers.
5 Pieces Gyoza US$7.00
Mixed pork and chicken Japanese pot stickers served with homemade gyoza dipping sauce.
Tebasaki US$7.00
Grilled chicken wings with salt.
Wakame US$6.50
Japanese seaweed salad.
Gommae US$6.00
Vegetarian. Spinach mixed with homemade gommae sauce.
Hiya Yakko US$5.50
Cold tofu with grated ginger, green onions and fish flakes on top.
2 Pieces Onigiri US$7.00
Dry seaweed wrapped rice balls with marinated salmon and spicy cod roe inside each.
Kimchi US$6.50
Vegetarian. Korean spicy cabbage.
Ika Sugata Yaki US$19.50
Grilled whole body squid with yakitori sauce, sesame seed and green onions.
Okonomiyaki US$19.50
Japanese pancakes. Crispy outside Japanese pancake made with wheat flour, egg, seafood mix, fish cakes, veggies with topped of okonomiyaki sauce, sesame seed and fish flakes. Ramen noodle on top (optional).
Beef Tataki US$12.00
Seared outside with ponzu sauce with green onions, grated ginger, and sesame seeds outside.
Sake Kama US$14.50
Grilled Salmon collar with ponzu sauce on the side.
Ankimo US$10.50
Monkfish liver
Buta Kimchi US$13.50
Stir fried pork and kimchi with green onion
Buta Nasu US$12.50
Stir fried pork and eggplant miso with green onion
Gyu-Tan US$13.00
Grilled beef tongue
Fresh Oysters US$21.50
- Half dozen (6pcs) of fresh oyster with ponzu sauce, grated ginger, seasoned radish, and green onions.

Deep Fried
Soft Shell Crab US$11.50
Breaded whole crab.
Pork Katsu A La Carte US$8.50
Appetizer portion of pork cutlet with katsu sauce.
Croquettes US$7.00
Vegetarian. 2 pieces. Mashed potatoes rolled in breadcrumbs serve with katsu sauce.
Chicken Katsu A La Carte US$8.50
Appetizer portion of chicken cutlet with katsu sauce.
Age Tofu US$7.00
Japanese style deep fried tofu served with tempura sauce and green onions.
Tatsua Age Saba A La Carte US$7.50
1 piece. Deep fried mackerel.
Shumai US$8.00
4 pieces. Fried shrimp dumpling with spicy mustard.
Miso Dengaku US$8.00
Vegetarian. Deep fried eggplant with miso paste, green onions and sesame seed on top.
Takoyaki US$8.00
5 pieces. Deep fried octopus balls with takoyaki sauce and fish flakes on top.
Geso Age US$10.50
Japanese style deep fried squid tails served with spicy mayo.
Mix Tempura US$11.00
5 pieces. Assorted veggies, 2 pieces shrimp with tempura sauce.
Ebi Tempura US$10.00
5 pieces. Shrimp with tempura sauce.
Vegetable Tempura US$9.00
6 pieces. Assorted veggies with tempura sauce.
Veggie Gyoza US$7.50
Vegetarian. 5 pieces. Mixed veggie deep fried Japanese pot stickers with homemade gyoza dipping sauce.
Chicken Karage US$9.50
Japanese style chicken nuggets with spicy mayo.
Karei Fry US$22.50
Deep fried Sole Fish (serve 3 people)
Aji Fry US$9.50
Deep fried horse mackerel (2pcs)
Age Mochi US$9.00
Grilled and then deep fried rice cake with tempura sauce.
6 Pcs. Fried Oysters. US$14.50
6pcs. fried oysters
5 Pcs. Fried Soft Shell Shrimp US$16.50
5 pcs of soft shell shrimp with Japanese mayo
Okura Tempura US$10.00
6 Piece Deep Fried Okura with Tempura Sauce
6 Pcs. Shiso Tempura US$10.00
6 piece deep fried Shiso, served with tempura sauce

Entrees
Saba Shioyaki Entree US$20.00
2 pieces. Grilled mackerel with salt.
Ton Katsu Entree US$21.50
Entree portion of pork cutlet with katsu sauce.
Chicken Teriyaki Entree US$20.00
Grilled chicken with teriyaki sauce.
Sake Teriyaki Entree US$22.00
2 pieces. Grilled salmon with teriyaki sauce.
Beef Teriyaki Entree US$23.00
Grilled beef with teriyaki sauce.
Sake Shioyaki Entree US$22.00
2 pieces. Grilled salmon with salt.
Chicken Katsu Entree US$21.50
Entree portion of chicken cutlet with katsu sauce.

Nigiri
Tamago Nigiri US$6.25
Sweet egg.
Tako Nigiri US$7.25
Octopus.
Ika Nigiri US$6.75
Squid.
Hotate Nigiri US$7.25
Scallop.
Shiro Maguro Nigiri US$7.25
White tuna.
Tobiko Nigiri US$6.25
Flying fish roe.
Inari Nigiri US$5.75
Tofu skin.
Hamachi Nigiri US$7.25
Yellowtail.
Ebi Nigiri US$6.25
Cooked shrimp.
Ikura Nigiri US$8.25
Salmon roe.
Maguro Nigiri US$7.25
Tuna.
Kani Nigiri US$7.75
Real crab.
Sake Nigiri US$7.25
Salmon.
Sake Toro Nigiri US$8.25
Salmon Belly.
Unagi Nigiri US$8.25
Eel.
Saba Nigiri US$7.25
Mackerel.
Escolar Nigiri US$7.75
Butterfish
Awabi Nigiri US$7.75
Abalone
Hamachi Toro US$9.75
Yellowtail belly
Amaebi Nigiri US$12.25
Sweet Shrimp with deep fried head
Uni Nigiri US$22.75
Fresh Sea Urchin from Santa Barbara
Ankimo Nigiri US$9.75
Monkfish Liver
Aji Nigiri US$7.75
Horse Mackerel.

Classic Rolls
Shrimp Tempura Roll US$8.50
Inside: shrimp tempura, crab, avocado, and romaine. Outside: soy paper.
Avocado Cucumber Maki Roll US$5.50
Avocado and cucumber. Vegetarian.
Miami Roll US$8.50
Tuna and avocado.
Negihama Maki Roll US$6.50
Yellowtail and green onions.
Kappa Maki Roll US$4.50
Cucumber. Vegetarian.
New York Roll US$7.50
Cooked shrimp and avocado.
Tekka Maki Roll US$6.00
Tuna.
Rock And Roll US$8.50
Eel and avocado.
Salmon Skin Roll US$7.50
Marinated salmon in soy sauce, cucumber and pickled burdock.
Oregon Roll US$8.00
Salmon and avocado.
California Roll US$6.50
Crab and avocado.
Spicy Tuna Roll US$7.50
Tuna marinated in spicy sauce with cucumber.
Spicy Scallop Roll US$10.50
Inside: scallop. Outside: spicy mayo and chili sauce.
Sake Maki Roll US$5.50
Salmon.
Philadelphia Roll US$8.00
Salmon and cream cheese.
Natto Maki Roll US$5.50
Vegetarian.
Chicken Teriyaki Roll US$8.00
Grilled chicken, avocado, cucumber, romaine lettuce wrapped with a soy paper on top of homemade teriyaki sauce.
Oshinko Maki Roll US$4.50
Japanese yellow radish. Vegetarian.
Avocado Maki Roll US$5.00
Vegetarian.
Unagi Roll (Eel) US$8.00

Special Roll
Crown Roll US$18.00
Inside: Salmon, avocado, cucumber. Outside: Spicy salmon, jalapeno, tobiko and chili sauce.
Crazy Monkey Roll US$17.00
Inside: Eel and cucumber. Outside: Salmon, hamachi, tobiko and unagi sauce
5 Pieces Lambada Roll US$11.00
Inside: Tuna and salmon. Outside: Soy paper, spicy mayo and chili sauce.
Super California Roll US$16.00
Inside: Crab and avocado. Outside: Eel and unagi sauce.
6 Pieces San Mateo Roll US$14.00
Inside: Shrimp tempura. Outside tobiko, crab sticks, spicy mayo and spicy sauce.
Dragon Roll US$18.50
Inside: 2 pieces. shrimp tempura, avocado and cucumber. Outside: Eel and unagi sauce.
Orange Blossom Roll US$21.50
Inside: Tuna and avocado. Outside: Salmon wrap and tobiko.
Rainbow Roll US$16.50
Inside: Crab meat and avocado. Outside: Assorted sashimi and avocado.
6 Pieces Spicy Crunchy Roll US$11.50
Inside: 2 pieces. shrimp tempura. Outside: Crunch tempura batter, crab sticks, spicy mayo and chili sauce.
Titanic Roll US$16.50
Inside: 2 pieces. shrimp tempura, avocado and cucumber. Outside: Tuna, salmon and crab meat.
T.N.T Roll US$16.50
Inside: Spicy tuna and cucumber. Outside : Seared albacore, jalapeno, ponzu and unagi sauce.
5 Pieces Calamari Tempura Roll US$11.00
Inside: Calamari tempura, avocado and romaine. Outside: Soy paper and spicy mayo.
Caterpillar Roll US$17.00
Inside: Eel and cucumber. Outside: Avocado and unagi sauce.
5 Pieces Vegetable Roll US$10.50
Inside: Avocado, cucumber, spinach, shiitake mushroom, romaine, gobo root and pickled radish. Outside: Soy paper. Vegetarian.
Ichiban Roll US$16.50
Inside: Hamachi. Outside: Eel and unagi sauce.
Crazy Horse Roll US$12.00
Inside: Salmon, tuna, hamachi and romaine. Outside : soy paper.
Poki Roll US$14.50
Inside: Spicy tuna. Outside: seaweed salad.
USA Roll US$11.00
Inside: Eel, salmon and avocado. Outside: wrapped with soy paper and homemade unagi sauce.
Monster Roll US$17.50
Inside: Whole soft shell crab, avocado. Outside: Spicy crab meat and unagi sauce.
Futomaki Roll US$20.00
Inside: Salmon + Tamago + Avocado, cucumber, spinach, pickled radish, gobo roots and shiitake mushrooms. Outside: wrapped with soy papers.
5 Pieces Spider Roll US$13.00
Inside: Fried soft shell crab, crab, avocado and romaine. Outside : Soy paper.
Wasacore Roll US$17.50
In : Spicy Salmon + Cucumber Out : Seared Albacore + Crunchy + Sliced Lemon + Special Wasabi Sauce

Roll Combination
Roll Combo A US$26.95
Miami roll + California roll + Oregon roll
Roll Combo B US$28.95
Spicy Tuna roll + Philadelphia roll + Crunchy roll
Roll Combo C US$36.95
Crown roll + California roll + Rock n Roll
Roll Combo D (Vegetarian Option) US$24.95
Vegetable Roll + Avocado Cucumber Roll + Oshinko Roll

Sushi combination
6 PCS Assorted Nigiri (Sushi) US$26.50
Chef's choice 6 pieces assorted nigiri.
9 PCS Assorted Deluxe Nigiri (Sushi) US$32.50
Chef's choice 9 pieces nigiri
Super Deluxe Sushi Combo US$54.50
Chef's choice 8 pieces nigiri and 9 pieces of sashimi (tuna, hamachi, salmon)
Chef's Sashimi Omakase US$180.00
Served 3 4 people.
SALMON LOVER SUSHI COMBO US$48.75
- 5 pcs. Freshly cut Salmon Sashimi + 4 pcs. Salmon Nigiri + Salmon maki + Oregon roll + FREE DRINK! (No substitution)
HAMACHI LOVER SUSHI COMBO US$48.75
- 5 pcs. Freshly cut Yellowtail(Hamachi) Sashimi + 4 pcs. Yellowtail Nigiri + Negihama maki +Negihama hand roll + FREE DRINK! (No substitution)
TUNA LOVER SUSHI COMBO US$48.75
- 5 pcs. Freshly cut Tuna Sashimi + 4 pcs. Tuna Nigiri + Tekka maki + Miami roll + FREE DRINK! (No substitution)

Temaki
Unagi And Avocado Hand Roll US$7.50
Eel and avocado.
Unagi Hand Roll US$7.00
Eel.
Natto Hand Roll US$5.50
Fermented soy.
Tuna Hand Roll US$6.00
Spicy Tuna Hand Roll US$6.00
Tuna marinated in spicy sauce with cucumber.
Sake Hand Roll US$5.50
Salmon.
New York Hand Roll US$5.50
Cooked shrimp and avocado.
Tamago Hand Roll US$4.50
Sweet egg.
Spicy Hotate Hand Roll US$7.00
Spicy scallop.
Tobbiko Hand Roll US$5.50
Flying fish roe.
Shrimp Tempura And Avocado Hand Roll US$6.50
Shrimp tempura and avocado.
California Hand Roll US$5.50
Crab and avocado.
Negi Hand Roll US$6.50
Hamachi and green onion.
Kani Hand Roll US$7.00
Real crab meat.
Salmon Skin Hand Roll US$6.00

Deep Fried Rolls
Spicy Tuna Squid Roll US$12.00
Inside: Spicy tuna. Outside: Rolled by squid, tempura battered, spicy mayo and chili sauce.
4 Pieces Crazy Jalapeno Roll US$11.00
Inside: Spicy tuna and cream cheese. Outside: Tempura battered jalapeno and unagi sauce.
California Lover Roll US$11.50
Inside: Crab meat, avocado. Outside: Tempura battered and unagi sauce.
Dynamite Roll US$17.50
INSIDE : Tuna + Salmon + Hamachi + Avocado / OUTSIDE : Tempura Batter + Spicy Mayo + Chili Sauce

Baked Roll
Lion King Roll US$12.50
Inside: crab meat and avocado. Outside: baked salmon, spicy mayo, cream cheese and unagi sauce.
Fire Burst US$18.50
Inside : Spicy tuna + Cucumber Outside : Baked Scallop + Spicy mayo with chopped Jalapeno + Tobiko + Unagi sauce + Spicy Sauce
Walu Walu US$17.50
In : Salmon + Cream Cheese Out : Baked Escolar + Japanese Mayo + Crunchy + Unagi Sauce + House Special Wasabi Sauce

From Sushi Bar
Ika Natto US$10.00
Squid and fermented soy.
Albacore Tataki Sashimi A La Carte US$15.50
5 pieces. Freshly cut white tuna seared sashimi with ponzu sauce and green onion.
Sake Sashimi A La Carte US$15.50
5 pieces. Freshly cut salmon.
Hamachi Sashimi A La Carte US$16.50
5 piece. Freshly cut yellowtail.
Delux Chirashi Don US$39.50
Freshly cut mixed sashimi over sushi rice.
Tako Sashimi A La Carte US$16.50
5 pieces. Freshly cut octopus.
Miso Zuke Don US$26.50
Miso marinated tuna served over sushi rice.
Assorted Deluxe Sashimi US$49.50
18 pieces. Freshly cut chef's choice.
Tuna Sake Don US$26.50
Freshly cut Tuna and salmon served over sushi rice.
Hotate A La Carte US$16.50
5 pieces. Freshly cut scallop.
Sake Ikura Don US$26.50
Salmon, salmon roe and grated yam over sushi rice.
Maguro Natto US$10.00
Tuna and fermented soy.
Maguro Sashimi A La Carte US$16.50
5 pieces. Freshly cut tuna.
Maguro Okura US$10.00
Tuna, okura and yam.
Shiro Maguro A La Carte US$15.50
5 pieces. freshly cut white tuna.
Sake Toro Sashimi A La Carte US$18.50
5 pcs. Freshly cut Salmon Belly.
Ikura Oroshi US$13.50
Salmon roe over grated radish
Yamakake US$10.50
Tuna with grated yam
Tekka Don US$26.50
Freshly cut Tuna served over sushi rice.
Zuke Don US$26.50
Soy marinated tuna served over sushi rice.
Yamakake Don US$26.50
Freshly cut Tuna with grated yam served over sushi rice.
Maguro Zuke Sashimi US$15.50
5pcs. Freshly cut soy marinated Tuna.
Miso Zuke Sashimi US$15.50
- 5pcs. Freshly cut miso marinated Tuna.
Hamachi Toro Sashimi US$19.50
-5pcs. Freshly cut yellowtail belly sashimi
Uni Sashimi US$40.50
Fresh Sea Urchin Sashimi from Santa Barbara
Saba Sashimi A La Carte US$14.00
5 pcs. Freshly cut homemade marinated mackerel. All freshly cut sashimi served with wasabi and ginger.

Salad From Sushi Bar
Spicy Shiro Maguro Salad US$19.50
Freshly cut white tuna with spring mix on top of spicy mayo, chili sauce and homemade salad dressing.
Spicy Seafood Salad US$20.50
Freshly cut mixed fish with spring mix on top of homemade spicy sauce, sesame seed and tobiko (flying fish roe).
Spicy Kani Salad US$20.50
Real crab meat with spring mix on top of spicy mayo, chili sauce and homemade salad dressing.
Poki Salad US$19.50
Marinated Tuna mixed with Green.
Spicy Sake Sashimi Salad US$19.50
- Freshly cut Salmon with spring mix with spicy mayo, chili sauce, and homemade salad dressing.

Bento Box
2 Item Bento Box US$21.95
3 Item Bento Box US$23.95

Side Order
Edamame US$6.95
House Salad US$3.75
White Steamed Rice US$3.75
Miso Soup US$3.75
Sushi Rice US$4.35

Cold Drinks
Original Flavor Calpico US$4.25
Non-carbonated soft drink and made from high quality non-fat milk.
Sprite US$3.75
Original Flavor Ramune US$4.25
Pronounced rah-moo-nay is cool and unique carbonated drink from Japan with a glass marble inside.
Diet Coke US$3.75
Martinelli's Apple Juice US$3.75
296 ml. 100% juice.
Coke US$3.75
Oolong Tea US$4.25
Japanese oolong tea in a can.
Sparkling Water US$6.25
- S. Pellegrino (500ml)
Green Tea US$4.25
Japanese green tea in a can.
Calpico Soda US$4.25
Carbonated original flavor calpico, made from high quality non-fat milk.
Asahi Zero US$7.50
Taste like Asahi Beer but 0% alcohol. 330 ml. (Must Try It !!!)

Izakaya Mai Details

Service options
Delivery
Dine-in
Takeaway

Highlights
Fast service
Great tea selection

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Comfort food
Food at bar
Healthy options
Late-night food
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Toilet

Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy

Crowd
Groups
University students

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Parking
Paid parking lot
Parking

Izakaya Mai Photos

Izakaya Mai Location

Izakaya Mai

California San Mateo County San Mateo Downtown 2nd Avenue

212 2nd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401, USA

Izakaya Mai Reviews

Food acceptable. Beef tongue was overcooked like crazy to the point of being crunchy from the char. Hamachi kama was perfectly cooked though.Service could be better. My water cup along with my friends were clearly empty and they never offered to refill at all.I tipped them fairly at 15% as my dinner service did not deserve the standard 18% their receipt asks for. Will probably not return again.
February 22 · Tom Li
Good not great Japanese food. We liked the Crazy Monkey roll, which was pretty big and came cut in 8 pieces. The chicken katsu curry was solid too, as was the buta nasu, though that had a lot more onion in it than I was expecting. It was packed on a Thursday night with beer towers flowing. Servers were really busy.
February 01 · Jason Xiahou
This is more like a food review. I've had this place multiple times and often find the food very alright, like a good 6 or 7 out of 10, but I don't have the tempura, not because it's not good, but the last two times, I've gotten a wire or a staple in my tempura, which I can see as a health hazard. Udon is Good, but get chicken instead of Beef. Potstickers are alright. Tempura is fine besides the wire. Takoyaki (Octopus Balls) are good, but the squid is often chewy. The Tonkatsu, I've heard from a family member, is good, but it is inconsistent. Yeah that's all.
April 26 · Skstudios 133
Good izakaya with a rigid vibe. There’s a variety of menu options to enjoy, and everything we tried was really good and delicious. 😃
February 09 · Phornphatch Hiranpattanakul
Summary: food ok. Service needs work. Wouldn't visit again.Had the katsu curry. Taste was good, but breading quality of the tonkatsu could use a LOT of work. Super thin meat, breading that was completely separate from the meat, and a relatively small portion.Also had takoyaki— came out about when I was finished with the curry. Taste was ok, nothing special.Waitress wasn't rude, but gave a strong feeling of not really caring at all. Would be the number reason I am not planning on visiting again.
March 10 · Eddie Lee