Wakuriya

The overall taste of the food was exquisite, with a particular highlight being the second course featuring hotate scallops with turnip soup and sautéed Hokkaido cod 'kumoko' (soft roe). Love the chef’s selection of sake flights! Amazing service. However, I wished for a more substantial inclusion of sashimi/seafood in the courses, as the main course seemed to lean towards regular beef or pork instead.

Last night, I had the pleasure of dining at Wakuriya in San Mateo, and I must say, the experience was quite remarkable. From the moment I stepped in, the serene and welcoming ambiance set the stage for what was an exquisite culinary journey. The service at Wakuriya was impeccable. The staff were attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining experience. Each course of the kaiseki menu was presented beautifully, showcasing a blend of traditional Japanese culinary artistry with subtle Californian influences. The highlights for me were the braised sea bass with its delicate yuzu gelee and the perfectly cooked Wagyu beef, which was both tender and flavorful. However, while the food and service were exceptional, I have some reservations about its Michelin star status. The quality and presentation were top-notch, but I felt that the overall experience, while delightful, did not fully align with other Michelin-starred restaurants I’ve visited in terms of creativity and culinary innovation. Additionally, considering the price point, I found Wakuriya to be slightly overpriced. While I understand and appreciate the quality of ingredients and the skill involved in preparing such dishes, the cost seemed a bit steep when weighed against the overall dining experience. In conclusion, Wakuriya is undoubtedly a great restaurant that I would recommend for those seeking high-quality Japanese cuisine in San Mateo. The serene atmosphere and meticulously prepared dishes make for a memorable dining experience. However, if you’re looking for a Michelin star-level experience, you might want to temper your expectations slightly, especially considering the price. Nonetheless, Wakuriya remains a gem in San Mateo’s culinary scene, and I am glad to have experienced its offerings.

Fantastic food in an intimate setting. Definitely a place I want to go back to

Amazing. Only difficulty is getting a reservation!

This has to be one of my favorite Michelin star restaurants. Every dish was fresh, unique and full of flavors, textures and beautiful designs. My favorite was the braised sea bass with yuzu gelee, yamaimo potato + aosa seaweed and rice with toro sashimi + shiso + basil. Delicious!! I would definitely go here again

Reservation system makes this subpar. Really elitist that they choose who they wish to serve (you basically have to call with a Japanese accent or know someone or they wont bother to put you on the waitlist).