YAYOI Hillsdale Introduce
Nestled within the bustling Hillsdale Mall at 389 Hillsdale Mall, San Mateo, CA 94403, YAYOI Hillsdale offers a distinctive and highly authentic Japanese dining experience. This restaurant is renowned for its focus on "Teishoku," traditional Japanese set meals that provide a balanced and wholesome culinary journey. For individuals in San Mateo and the surrounding areas seeking high-quality Japanese comfort food, YAYOI Hillsdale presents a convenient and well-regarded option. Its presence within the "Doctor Near Me" platform category highlights its accessibility and suitability for those looking for reliable services or goods in their immediate vicinity, offering a comforting and satisfying meal solution close to their daily routines.
- iPad Ordering System: A standout feature is the iPad-based ordering system. This "easy to navigate" interface allows customers to browse the menu with pictures, place their orders, and even request service or refills directly from their table. This streamlines the ordering process and minimizes waiting times.
- Robot Food Delivery: In a futuristic touch, many meals are delivered directly to tables by "robots serving the food." This innovative method contributes to the quick delivery of dishes and adds an element of novelty to the dining experience.
- Friendly and Welcoming Staff: Despite the reliance on technology, human interaction remains key. Reviewers commend the "friendly and welcoming" servers who are available to assist with seating, payment, and any specific needs, ensuring a smooth and pleasant visit.
- Takeout and Delivery: YAYOI Hillsdale understands the need for flexibility, offering convenient takeout services. Customers can place their orders via phone at (650) 315-2287 or +1 650-315-2287. They also partner with various online delivery platforms, making it easy to enjoy their delicious food from home or work.
- Payment: The restaurant accepts credit cards, providing a convenient and cashless payment option for diners.
- Teishoku Set Meals: This is the restaurant's signature offering. Teishoku typically includes a main dish, steamed rice, miso soup, a vegetable side dish, and pickles, providing a complete and balanced meal. This traditional presentation is highly valued by those seeking an authentic Japanese experience.
- Popular Main Dishes:
- Chicken Katsu: Highly praised for being "very good" and a "nice size for the price paid." It's noted for being fresh and crispy, even for takeout orders.
- Tonkatsu: The pork cutlet is a popular choice, described as crispy and juicy.
- Sukiyaki: The Wagyu Sukiyaki is a highly recommended hot pot dish, featuring tender beef and assorted vegetables, often highlighted for its authentic flavor.
- Sushi Bites: While not a dedicated sushi bar, YAYOI offers "sushi bites" for those looking for a taste of raw fish. These are well-received as part of the overall menu.
- Other Teishoku Options: The menu features a wide array of teishoku options, including grilled salted mackerel (Saba Shio), Teriyaki Chicken, Teriyaki Salmon, Karaage (Japanese fried chicken), Shogayaki (ginger pork), and various Donburi (rice bowl) options like Una Ju (BBQ eel over rice) and Wagyu Yakiniku Ju (BBQ American Wagyu beef over rice).
- Curry Dishes: Japanese curry is also a strong feature, with options like Chicken Katsu Curry and Pork Katsu Curry being popular.
- Side Dishes and Soups: Reviewers appreciate the accompanying elements of the teishoku, such as the "delicate and flavorful chawanmushi" (steamed egg custard). The miso soup is a standard inclusion, and there are various other side dishes like Edamame and Gyoza.
- High Quality and Authenticity: Customers consistently highlight the "high quality of the food" and its ability to be "very reminiscent of when I went to Tokyo." This level of authenticity is a significant draw for many. The general consensus is that "everything is good here. You really can’t go wrong."
In conclusion, YAYOI Hillsdale stands as a highly recommended Japanese restaurant in San Mateo, offering an authentic teishoku experience with a modern twist. Its clean environment, efficient service (complete with iPad ordering and robot delivery), and a menu brimming with flavorful, high-quality Japanese comfort food make it a compelling choice. Whether you're craving a perfectly crispy Chicken Katsu, a comforting bowl of Sukiyaki, or just a taste of Japan, YAYOI Hillsdale provides a consistent and delightful culinary journey. You can reach them at (650) 315-2287 for more information or to place an order.
YAYOI Hillsdale Photos










YAYOI Hillsdale Location
YAYOI Hillsdale
389 Hillsdale Mall, San Mateo, CA 94403, USA
YAYOI Hillsdale Reviews
I passed by this place many times, and today, I decided to order takeout. The restaurant was very nice and not too busy. The server was friendly and welcoming. I ordered the Chicken Katsu, which didn't take very long to cook. The food was very good!! The portion was a nice size for the price paid, and they only accept credit cards. I would definitely come back again.
Apr 30, 2025 · Gwendolyn McBride BivensVery reminiscent of when I went to Tokyo. Prices are higher of course and you don’t get the benefit of the currency exchange rate, but at least the high quality of the food is Japan level. You order on an iPad with pictures, which is easy to navigate and to request service or refills.I like the tonkatsu, sukiyaki, and sushi bites. Everything is good here. You really can’t go wrong.
Dec 31, 2024 · William ToThe parking was easy. The dining room was clean. The robot delivery waiter was a novelty. Most importantly, the food was just okay, at premium prices.
May 16, 2025 · Wendel TseBetter than I expected! The food was pretty tasty and service was great (both the human and robot server!). The iPad that you order on was pretty nasty though, and I don’t love the price for the quality so docking it down to 3 stars - not bad but not going to be seeking it out either.
Nov 24, 2024 · Jason XiahouVery authentic Japanese home-style restaurant 🍜 I was surprised by the variety of the menu. Besides the outside menu, you can find more things to pick from! They also have a lot of Don, Ramen, and even a handroll sushi! 🍣I ordered Mixed Fries with egg-covered, which were good. They came with katsu, wagyu beef, and shrimp fries 🍤. The katsu was not soft enough to chew, but the taste was good. I could also customize my order by adding Gyoza, chawan mushi (steamed egg custard), and Eel Don.Then, I ordered some sweets after had proper lunch, Warabimochi and An Mitsu were also so yummy. I especially liked the mochi ice-topped on the An Mitsu. 🍨So happy to have casual home-stye Japanese here! 😊
Sep 28, 2024 · L
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