Osawa Introduce
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For discerning Californians with a refined taste for authentic Japanese cuisine, Osawa in Pasadena stands as a beacon of excellence. This highly acclaimed restaurant has earned a stellar reputation for consistently delivering fresh, high-quality sushi and a truly memorable dining experience. Osawa is more than just a meal; it's a culinary journey where meticulous preparation, premium ingredients, and attentive service converge to create an unforgettable occasion.
Known for its commitment to traditional Japanese culinary artistry, Osawa offers a sophisticated yet welcoming ambiance. Whether you're celebrating a special event, indulging in a luxurious omakase, or simply seeking the finest sushi in the area, Osawa promises an experience that lives up to its prestigious standing among California's top Japanese restaurants.
Osawa is ideally located at 77 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA. This prime address places it in the heart of Old Pasadena, a vibrant and easily accessible district. Its central location makes it a highly desirable dining spot for both local residents and visitors exploring the historic area. Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended to avoid long waits, even with a booking. For parking, Osawa offers valet parking, a convenient option in Old Pasadena. Additionally, there are several paid parking garages nearby, such as One Colorado Garage (30 E Union St) and a garage at 48 N Raymond Ave. For those willing to walk a little, free street parking might be found on some of the surrounding streets. This accessibility ensures that your journey to experiencing Osawa's culinary delights is as smooth as possible.
Osawa provides a comprehensive and high-end Japanese dining experience, specializing in a range of expertly prepared dishes:
- Omakase Experiences: A highlight for many diners, Osawa's omakase is consistently praised as "always worth it." Options range from approximately $70-$80 per person for a comprehensive course that includes sashimi, sushi, and other traditional elements like "steamed," "grilled," and "fried" dishes. A "Premium Omakase Sushi" (12 pcs) is also available.
- Exceptional Sushi and Sashimi: Osawa is renowned for its "fresh, high quality" sushi. The menu features a wide array of Nigiri (2pcs) including Sake (Salmon), Maguro (Tuna), Hamachi (Yellowtail), Toro (Fatty Tuna), Uni (Sea Urchin), Hotate (Scallop), Amaebi (Jumbo Sweet Shrimp), and various seasonal fish. Sashimi assortments are also available in different sizes.
- Diverse Sushi Rolls: A variety of classic and signature sushi rolls are offered, such as California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Rainbow Roll, Crunchy Roll, Spider Roll, Dragon Roll, and more unique creations like the Albacore Volcano Roll.
- Japanese Tapas (Otsumami): An extensive selection of appetizers perfect for sharing or complementing your meal. These include Edamame, Agedashi Tofu, Free Range Chicken Karaage with Sweet Chili, Shishito Tempura Stuffed Spicy Tuna, Grilled Yellowtail Collar, and Ahi Tuna Tataki.
- Bento Boxes: Thoughtfully curated bento boxes are available, such as the Shokado Bento (Steak, Miso Salmon, sashimi, Spicy Tuna Roll, and more) and Soy Glazed Black Cod Bento.
- Rice Bowls and Noodles: For those seeking comforting Japanese staples, Osawa offers BBQ Eel Don, Beef Curry w/Kurobuta Pork Katsu, and various Udon noodle soups like Shrimp Tempura Udon and Niku (Beef) Udon.
- Shabu Shabu: Osawa also features Shabu Shabu, with options including Rib Eye, Prime Rib Eye, and Wagyu beef, often prepared at a dedicated shabu shabu counter.
- Desserts: Indulge in traditional Japanese desserts like Black Sesame Panna Cotta, White Flan, and Yuzu Jelly.
- Beverage Program: A well-curated selection of sake, wine, and beer is available to pair with your meal.
- Dine-In Service: Enjoy the welcoming yet upscale atmosphere for a memorable in-restaurant dining experience.
- Take-Out and Delivery: For convenience, Osawa offers take-out services, allowing patrons to enjoy their high-quality Japanese cuisine at home.
Osawa distinguishes itself through several key features that consistently impress its clientele:
- Unparalleled Freshness and Quality: This is the most consistent and emphatic highlight from customer reviews. Diners repeatedly state they haven't found "better quality sushi" and praise the "incredibly fresh" fish.
- Exceptional Omakase Experience: The omakase is a major draw, celebrated for its "rich flavors and perfect textures," with "every piece carefully prepared," making it a "great splurge" for those seeking a premium experience.
- Expert Craftsmanship: The chefs clearly "take pride in their work," evident in the "expertly crafted" dishes, from the delicate nigiri to the creamy uni.
- Welcoming Yet Upscale Ambiance: The restaurant offers a sophisticated atmosphere that feels inviting, creating a pleasant backdrop for a special meal.
- Friendly, Knowledgeable, and Attentive Service: The staff are consistently lauded for being "friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive," contributing significantly to the overall excellent experience.
- Variety Beyond Sushi: While sushi is a highlight, the menu's breadth, including shabu shabu, bento boxes, ramen, and a wide array of unique appetizers, ensures there's something for every preference.
- Worth the Wait: Despite potential wait times, even with reservations, customers unanimously agree that the experience is "worth it" for the quality of food and service.
Osawa, positioned as a high-quality Japanese restaurant, tends to focus on the intrinsic value of its premium ingredients and refined dining experience rather than frequent discounts. However, they do offer:
- Lunch Specials: Osawa has offered competitive lunch specials, such as a set including miso soup, nigiri, and a handroll at a specific price point, making high-quality sushi more accessible during midday hours.
- Happy Hour: Osawa typically offers Happy Hour specials during specific hours, often Monday-Saturday evenings (e.g., 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM), which may include discounted appetizers or beverages.
For the most current information on their lunch specials or any other limited-time offers, it is always advisable to check their official website or call the restaurant directly.
Ready to experience the exceptional Japanese cuisine at Osawa?
- Address: 77 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA
- Phone: (626) 683-1150
For California locals, particularly those in the Pasadena area and beyond, Osawa stands out as an indispensable destination for premium Japanese dining. Its consistent delivery of "fresh, high quality" sushi, as attested by numerous rave reviews, makes it a reliable choice for discerning palates. The option of an "Omakase" experience, highly recommended for its "rich flavors and perfect textures," provides a truly immersive culinary journey that showcases the chefs' artistry.
While its popularity means reservations are advised and a short wait might still occur, the consensus is clear: Osawa is "worth it." The combination of an upscale yet welcoming ambiance, coupled with friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive service, elevates the entire dining experience. For those seeking top-notch sushi, an unforgettable meal, or simply the best quality Japanese food in the area, Osawa is unequivocally the spot for Pasadena locals to celebrate, splurge, and savor.
Osawa Photos










Osawa Location
Osawa
77 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA
Osawa Reviews
You can count on Osawa to deliver fresh, high quality, sushi every time. It’s got great ambience and the service is friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. I’d recommend a reservation because it’s super popular. I had a reservation for my bday last month and still had to wait 45 mins and rush through eating since they were closing soon. I’d definitely just plan ahead. This place is worth it. I haven’t found better quality sushi than this place!
Feb 28, 2025 · Alexandria VigilOsawa is my favorite spot for high quality Japanese food, and the omakase is always worth it. While it’s on the pricey side, the experience and freshness of the fish make it a great splurge. Every piece is carefully prepared, with rich flavors and perfect textures. From the creamy uni to the delicate nigiri, each bite feels special and expertly crafted.The restaurant has a welcoming yet upscale atmosphere, and the service is always excellent. The chefs clearly take pride in their work, and it shows in every dish. If you’re looking for topnotch sushi and an unforgettable meal, this is your spot.
Mar 07, 2025 · Alexander BugarinOne of the best sushi restaurants in CA. I wish I lived near by so I could come often. The onset egg is out of this world.🤤
Apr 24, 2025 · Nha LeThis is a MUST! Make sure to get a reservation, it's small and packed! It's a testimony to their craft. The food is so delicious, the staff and service were unmatched, and it's honestly one of the best sushi dining experiences I've ever had. There was no bad choice. I can't wait to go back.
Nov 12, 2024 · Megan YaculloWe haven't gone for a while but went recently during brunch. Without any reservations, we lined up as walk-ins, seated immediately as we were the first guests. Something new to try...mini crabs, still alive when we ordered them. Though they were small after quick flash frying, they were delicious. Besides the crabs, all dishes ordered were fresh and delicious!Thanks to Sho and all servers, they were attentive and pleasant.
May 25, 2025 · Mei Chi Siu
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