Mokutanya

For those in California seeking an Asian dining experience that transcends the ordinary, Mokutanya in Burlingame stands out as a truly exceptional destination. This acclaimed restaurant specializes in yakitori (grilled skewers) and Japanese tapas, offering a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere that makes it perfect for a memorable evening. Mokutanya isn't just a place to eat; it's an immersive culinary journey where thoughtful preparation, fresh ingredients, and a unique ambiance combine to create an experience that truly "blows you away."

Mokutanya has quickly gained a reputation for nailing it in "so many different ways," surprising even seasoned diners with its quality and attention to detail. Unlike many yakitori places where skewers might taste similar, at Mokutanya, "every skewer has its own statement to make," showcasing distinct flavors and expert marination. This dedication to individuality in each dish, from appetizers to main courses, ensures a dynamic and engaging meal. While it’s noted that portions for skewers can be a bit small, encouraging guests to order around "10+ between 2 adults," the quality and distinctiveness make it well worth the experience.

Beyond the food, Mokutanya excels in creating a distinctive atmosphere. It's described as a "quiet and dark joint," with an ambiance that "screams date night." The restaurant is meticulously designed to provide an intimate setting, even featuring "glass separation" between seats to facilitate quiet conversation despite the surrounding bustle. Crucially for a yakitori establishment, they grill behind glass in a kitchen, ensuring that "fumes are barely noticeable" and your clothes remain fresh. This thoughtful approach to the dining environment elevates Mokutanya beyond a casual eatery, positioning it as a prime choice for special occasions or simply a sophisticated night out.

Mokutanya is conveniently located at 1155 California Dr, Burlingame, CA 94010, USA. This address places it firmly in the vibrant downtown area of Burlingame, a charming city renowned for its dining and shopping scene within the larger Bay Area. Its central position makes it easily accessible for residents across the Peninsula and beyond. California Drive is well-connected, and the restaurant is "right across from the Broadway Station" for Caltrain (weekends only), and the SamTrans 292 bus stops directly in front of the small shopping plaza where Mokutanya is situated. For those driving, there is "on-site parking lot" availability, as well as "metered street parking along California Dr. and Broadway Ave," and a "metered parking lot on Chula Vista Ave." This multitude of transportation and parking options ensures that reaching Mokutanya is convenient, allowing guests to focus on enjoying their exceptional meal.

The interior of Mokutanya is specifically designed to create a romantic and intimate setting. With "16 low sunken tables with leg wells," all separated by "glass partitions," the restaurant provides a sense of privacy even amidst a lively crowd. This design is highly conducive to deep conversation and a relaxed dining pace, making it ideal for date nights or smaller, focused gatherings. The commitment to minimizing smoke and scent from the grilling process (by having it done behind glass) is a significant feature that enhances comfort and allows diners to fully appreciate the ambiance without worrying about their clothing. It’s an environment crafted for an elevated experience, distinguishing it from more casual dining spots.

• Dine-In Service: Enjoy a full-service dining experience in their intimate and sophisticated setting.
• Yakitori and Kushiyaki: Specializes in a wide variety of expertly grilled skewers, including chicken, beef (Wagyu), pork, seafood, and vegetables.
• Japanese Tapas/Small Plates: Offers a diverse selection of appetizers like croquettes, hamachi carpaccio, takoyaki, and grilled whole squid, perfect for sharing.
• Ramen and Donburi: Features satisfying rice and noodle dishes, including Tonkotsu, Shoyu, Miso, Spicy Black Garlic Miso, Spicy Beef Ramen, and unique options like Cold Ramen and Yakitori Don.
• Extensive Sake, Beer, and Cocktail Menu: Provides a healthy selection of beverages, including expensive Junmai Daiginjos and more affordable sake varieties, along with beer and cocktails.
• Reservations: Highly recommended, often needing to be booked "a week or two earlier" due to high demand. Reservations can typically be made via OpenTable.
• Dietary Accommodations: Willing to guide guests with dietary restrictions or allergies in their food selection.
• Takeout: Available for pickup through various platforms like Grubhub.

• Date Night Ambiance: Specifically designed with a quiet, dark, and intimate atmosphere, perfect for couples and deep conversations.
• Smoke-Free Grilling: Yakitori is grilled behind glass in a kitchen, minimizing smoke and scent in the dining area.
• Individually Distinct Skewers: Unlike many yakitori places, each skewer at Mokutanya offers its own unique flavor profile and marination.
• Fresh and High-Quality Ingredients: All food, from appetizers to skewers, features fresh ingredients and is tastefully prepared. Meats and vegetables are delivered daily and never frozen.
• Mind-Blowing Side Dishes: Specific side dishes like the Cold Ramen and Chicken Skewer Donburi with Kimchee are noted for their quantity, quality, and ability to stand as main dishes.
• Privacy Partitions: Glass separations between seats allow for quiet and private conversations.
• Diverse Beverage Selection: Offers a wide range of sake, from affordable options to high-end Junmai Daiginjos, along with beer and cocktails.
• Exceptional Value for Experience: While not inexpensive ($100+ per person including tip), the overall quality of food, ambiance, and service provides an "experience that is difficult to match in the Bay Area."
• Friendly and Attentive Staff: Although service can vary, when "on point," it's quick and efficient.

While specific daily or weekly "promotions" in the traditional sense (e.g., happy hour deals) are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, Mokutanya's value lies in its high-end dining experience. The reviews suggest that the pricing, while not cheap (around $100 per person including tip), is justified by the "experience that is difficult to match in the Bay Area." OpenTable notes that Mokutanya does offer happy hour, although specific details are not provided. It is always recommended for locals to check Mokutanya's official website, their OpenTable profile, or social media channels for the most current information on any seasonal menus, special tasting events, or specific happy hour details they might offer. Given their focus on quality and unique ingredients, any "specials" would likely involve seasonal culinary highlights or curated omakase-style experiences that showcase rare finds. Direct inquiry with the restaurant staff is also an excellent way to learn about any current offerings that might enhance your visit.

Address: 1155 California Dr, Burlingame, CA 94010, USA

Phone: (650) 348-9388

For California locals, especially those in the Burlingame area and across the Bay, Mokutanya offers a truly distinctive and highly suitable dining experience that stands out among Asian restaurants. It is particularly ideal for those seeking an elevated and intimate evening, perfect for "date night" or sophisticated gatherings, thanks to its carefully curated ambiance with dim lighting and glass partitions that allow for private conversation.

The culinary offerings at Mokutanya are a significant draw. While some visits might vary in service, the consistent praise for the food's quality is undeniable. Each yakitori skewer is a "statement to make," prepared with "fresh ingredients" and thoughtful marinades that ensure no two taste alike. Beyond skewers, the "mind-blowing" side dishes like the cold ramen and chicken skewer donburi offer substantial and delicious alternatives, making it a versatile choice. The extensive selection of sake, beers, and cocktails further enhances the premium dining experience.

Despite the higher price point, the consensus is that Mokutanya delivers an "absolutely phenomenal experience" that provides exceptional value for the quality and unique atmosphere. Its convenient downtown Burlingame location, with ample parking and public transport options, makes it easily accessible for special occasions. For locals who appreciate fresh, artfully prepared Japanese cuisine in a romantic and smoke-free environment, Mokutanya is a must-reserve destination that promises a memorable and highly recommended return visit.

Mokutanya

1155 California Dr, Burlingame, CA 94010, USA