Matsuri Restaurant

For those in California seeking an authentic and satisfying Japanese dining experience, look no further than Matsuri Restaurant in Pasadena. This local favorite has built a reputation for its commitment to quality ingredients, traditional flavors, and a welcoming atmosphere that transports you straight to the heart of Japan. Whether you're a long-time enthusiast of Japanese cuisine or just beginning your culinary journey, Matsuri offers a diverse menu designed to delight every palate.

Matsuri Restaurant aims to provide more than just a meal; it offers an experience where the artistry of Japanese cooking meets warm, attentive service. It’s a place where you can enjoy meticulously prepared dishes, from delicate sushi to hearty ramen, all crafted with care and an emphasis on freshness.

Matsuri Restaurant is conveniently situated at 1065 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91106, USA. This prime location places it in the vibrant heart of Pasadena, making it easily accessible for residents and those commuting through the area. One of the standout benefits, often highlighted by diners, is the availability of parking. In a busy city like Pasadena, finding convenient parking can significantly enhance your dining experience, and Matsuri delivers on this front with both street and lot parking options nearby. Its central location also means it’s close to various local attractions, making it a perfect spot for a meal before or after exploring the city.

Matsuri Restaurant offers a comprehensive array of Japanese culinary delights, ensuring there's something for everyone. Their menu is thoughtfully curated, showcasing both classic and contemporary dishes. Here’s a detailed look at what you can enjoy:

• Extensive Sushi and Sashimi Selection: Matsuri is well-regarded for the quality and freshness of its sushi and sashimi. You'll find a wide variety of options, from traditional nigiri like Bluefin Tuna and Yellowtail to various cut rolls such as Spicy Tuna, Salmon Avocado, and unique house creations like the Volcano and Dragon rolls.
• Chirashi Bowls: For those who appreciate an assortment of fresh sashimi over sushi rice, Matsuri offers delicious chirashi bowls. While one reviewer mentioned a personal preference for other dishes, it's a popular choice for many.
• Hearty Udon and Ramen: Beyond sushi, the menu features comforting noodle dishes like Udon and Ramen, perfect for a warm and filling meal. Options often include Tempura Udon, Kakiage Udon, and various ramen with grilled chicken or pork belly (chashu).
• Lunch Specials: Matsuri offers appealing lunch options that provide a great variety at a fair price. These can include bento boxes with a choice of protein (like Chicken Teriyaki or Salmon Teriyaki) alongside tempura, California rolls, and rice. Sushi and sashimi lunch combinations are also available, offering a satisfying and nutritious midday meal.
• Appetizers and Small Plates: Start your meal with a selection of classic Japanese appetizers such as Edamame, Gyoza (fried pork and vegetable dumplings), various Tempura (shrimp, vegetable, soft shell crab), and unique offerings like Baked Scallops and Spicy Tuna Tartare.
• Donburi and Curry Dishes: Enjoy traditional Japanese rice bowls like Katsu Don (pork cutlet with egg over rice) or Unajyu (grilled eel over rice). They also feature Japanese-style curries with chicken, pork, shrimp, or vegetables.
• Teriyaki and Katsu Entrees: Choose from perfectly grilled Chicken, Salmon, or Steak Teriyaki, or enjoy crispy deep-fried cutlets like Chicken Katsu and Tonkatsu (pork cutlet).
• Desserts: Conclude your meal with delightful Japanese desserts such as Mochi Ice Cream, Green Tea Cheesecake, or other sweet treats.
• Dine-In Experience: Enjoy your meal in the restaurant's inviting and comfortable ambiance, perfect for both casual and more special occasions.
• Takeout and Delivery: For ultimate convenience, Matsuri Restaurant also provides takeout services, allowing you to savor their delicious Japanese cuisine from the comfort of your home.

Matsuri Restaurant has garnered attention for several key features that make it a standout choice for Japanese dining in Pasadena:

• High Quality Sushi: Numerous customer reviews praise the "quite good" and even "unbelievably fresh" quality of the sushi and sashimi. This focus on fresh ingredients is a consistent highlight.
• Excellent Lunch Options: Diners consistently find the lunch menu to be a significant draw, offering "lots of variety for a fair price" and dishes that are "delicious, nutritious, and filling."
• Good Service: The service at Matsuri is frequently complimented, described as "good service" by customers, contributing to a pleasant dining experience.
• Convenient Parking: A major plus for any establishment in Pasadena, Matsuri offers the added convenience of "good parking," making visits stress-free.
• Authentic Japanese Fare: Matsuri is recognized for providing an authentic Japanese dining experience, offering more than just sushi but a wide range of traditional dishes that reflect genuine Japanese culinary traditions.
• Variety on the Menu: From various sushi rolls and sashimi platters to bento boxes, udon, and chirashi, the extensive menu ensures there are ample choices for every preference.
• Reasonably Priced: For the quality and variety offered, Matsuri is often considered to be reasonably priced, providing good value for a satisfying meal.

While specific daily or weekly promotions can change, Matsuri Restaurant is known for its value-packed lunch options, which serve as a continuous special offer for those looking for a satisfying and affordable midday meal. These lunch specials often include bento boxes, sushi combinations, and various bowls, providing a taste of their diverse menu at a friendly price point. It's always a good idea to check their website or call ahead for any current promotions or seasonal specials they might be running.

Ready to experience the authentic flavors of Matsuri Restaurant?

• Address: 1065 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91106, USA
• Phone: (626) 844-2900

For California locals, particularly those in the Pasadena area, Matsuri Restaurant offers a compelling dining destination. Its central location on East Green Street combined with the significant advantage of easy parking makes it an incredibly convenient choice for a spontaneous meal or a planned gathering. The consistent praise for the quality of its sushi and the excellent variety in its lunch options ensures a delightful experience, whether you're grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a more leisurely meal.

Matsuri is more than just a place to eat; it's a community fixture where you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine in a welcoming environment with friendly service. It strikes a great balance between quality and value, making it an ideal spot for regular visits. If you're looking for a dependable, delicious, and genuinely Japanese restaurant in Pasadena, Matsuri Restaurant is definitely worth a visit.

Matsuri Restaurant

1065 E Green St, Pasadena, CA 91106, USA