Izakaya Mai | Japanese Restaurant in San Mateo, CA
Warm izakaya interior at Izakaya Mai in San Mateo with fresh sashimi plated on the counter

Izakaya Mai · 2nd Ave

After Dark, We Cut Fresh

An izakaya night on 2nd Ave - knife-fresh sashimi, curry, and rolls in the heart of San Mateo. Doors open at 6pm.

Order Online

The Izakaya After Dark

Where the Lanterns Glow

When evening settles over 2nd Ave, Izakaya Mai comes alive. Our chefs slice sashimi to order, ladle steaming katsu curry, and roll sushi with a precision earned over years behind the counter. It's the warm, low-lit spirit of a Japanese izakaya - generous portions, honest ingredients, and food that arrives fresh and beautifully plated. Whether it's date night or a quiet solo seat at the bar, we welcome you into a nocturnal corner of San Mateo built for lingering.
Chef's choice nigiri and sashimi platter with tuna, hamachi, and salmon at Izakaya Mai
Chef's choice nigiri & sashimi, cut nightly.

From the Cutting Board

Signature Plates

Delux Chirashi Don

Delux Chirashi Don

Freshly cut assorted sashimi laid over seasoned sushi rice.

Super Deluxe Sushi Combo

Super Deluxe Sushi Combo

Chef's choice 8 pieces nigiri and 9 pieces of sashimi - tuna, hamachi, salmon.

Rainbow

Rainbow

Inside: crab meat & avocado. Outside: assorted sashimi & avocado.

3 Items Bento Box

3 Items Bento Box

A most-loved classic - your choice of three items in one satisfying box.

Japanese Katsu Curry Rice

Japanese Katsu Curry Rice

Crispy pork cutlet over Japanese curry rice, served with red pickles.

Orange Blossom

Orange Blossom

Inside: tuna & avocado. Outside: salmon wrap & tobiko.

Voices from the Counter

4.6
Based on 6,504 ratings

Great value! Great portion! Very fresh! Best California Roll (Crab + Avocado) I've ever had! The potstickers are fire too, you can break em open by the center & pour in the sauce . Would definitely order again

Daniel B

My family and I love Izakaya. I always bring my family or use it as a date night with my husband or daughter. We love the Dynamite roll as well as the Stuffed Jalapeño appetizer. We usually get Miso, a few rolls, the kids get either their Salmon tapa or the beef ribs tapa and a side of rice. The teriyaki chx bowl, curry and rice, or Donburi bowls are just as delicious! Service is always great and portions are always as expected. Food is always great, fresh and well presented! This is a local fave hands down.

Crystal H

When the Lanterns Are Lit

Visit Us

Hours

Sunday
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Monday
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Tuesday
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Wednesday
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Thursday
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Friday
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Saturday
6:00 PM - 12:00 AM

Find Us on 2nd Ave

212 2nd Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94401

(650) 393-4019

Delivery & pickup available

Before You Sit Down

Good to Know

What meals do you serve?
Izakaya Mai serves authentic Japanese cuisine perfect for sushi lovers and Japanese food enthusiasts in San Mateo. Our menu features the Deluxe Chirashi Don with freshly cut assorted sashimi over sushi rice, and the Super Deluxe Sushi Combo with chef's choice nigiri and sashimi. The Rainbow Roll combines crab meat, avocado, and assorted sashimi for a stunning presentation. We also offer hearty options like Japanese Katsu Curry Rice and the beloved 3 Items Bento Box, ideal for lunch or dinner.
Do you offer delivery or takeout?
Yes, Izakaya Mai offers both delivery and pickup. Order conveniently online or by phone.
Where are you located?
Izakaya Mai is located at 212 2nd Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401.
What areas do you serve?
Izakaya Mai proudly serves San Mateo and surrounding areas including Burlingame, Belmont, Foster City, Redwood City, San Carlos, Millbrae, Hillsborough, South San Francisco, Daly City, and Menlo Park.
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