Sushi Jae — Restaurant in San Jose

Why did I come here? Bad reviews. Yes, really. Call me strange but I was intrigued by reports of rudeness. I wanted to see what was happening. So, I ate here alone once. Then a 2nd time, then a 3rd time. And a few days ago, a fourth time, with a friend. EVERY TIME.... everyone here was so nice. Each person there was sweet, friendly, courteous and helpful. So... keep in mind, sometimes people can be jerks to restaurant workers, and when they are, and they encounter a worker who's had enough and isn't standing for it, unfortunately the restaurant is the one who endures a negative, and possibly unfair, review. My friend by the way says all sushi tastes pretty much the same to her. Ok. Fair enough. And even SHE noted with grateful surprise that this sushi at Sushi Jae stood out as surprisingly good. I agree. The rice and fish were the right temp (not refrigerator cold) and tender, fresh and beautiful. Oh man. I like the low sodium soy sauce option (which to me just tastes so much better) and the ice cold Asahi beer. So why 3 stars for Atmosphere? Not a criticism. It's just a very basic environment. I don't need flowers and fish tanks. I like the low, ambient lighting. I got the Sushi Combo (I think?). It was like 29 bucks. Salad and soup included. Would I change anything ? Yeah. I'd do away with the masks. One pretty girl wasn't wearing one, thank G-d. And I think the entrance to the store could be brighter and more stylish. I honestly think it's an easy place to drive past. Either way, I so look forward...

Came here for dinner on a Friday night and it was a pretty good experience EXCEPT for after my friend and I both got sick after eating there. We didn't eat anything else together prior to the visit or after. It wasn't food poisoning, but it didn't make the plans that we were going to do afterwards any better. 

Parking: Plenty of parking. It's located within a small plaza next to a PetCo. The surrounding stores don't really drive that much traffic into the plaza, so there was LOADS of parking available. 

Service: The staff was nice and attentive. They kept an eye on my friend and I to know when we were ready to order and they came by to refill out water a couple of times. 

Best Part: The sushi over all was pretty good. I got the Lion king roll and the Mad dragon roll. I personally liked the mad dragon roll more b/c it was spicy. I'm not big on raw seafood, so it was nice that the waiter was able to point out all of the cooked options. 

Worst Part: The aftermath of eating there.....

Tips: Don't get their ramen (plain and noodles are like Top Ramen). It's a sushi place, so that's what they're better known for. 

Return: I wouldn't just because of the...

The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and I immediately noticed how clean and well-maintained the restaurant was—something that always makes a great first impression.

The sushi was incredibly fresh, beautifully presented, and bursting with flavor. Every bite was a delight, from the perfectly seasoned nigiri to the creative rolls that were clearly made with care and attention to detail.

What really stood out to me was the balance of quality and value. The portions were generous, and the prices were very reasonable for the level of freshness and taste. It’s clear that the owner and staff take pride in what they do, and it shows in every aspect of the dining experience.

If you’re in San Jose and craving sushi, Sushi Jae is a must-visit. The combination of a welcoming owner, a spotless environment, and delicious, fresh food makes this place a standout. I’ll definitely be returning and recommending it to...