My first time here with my husband tonight based on a recommendation by one of my clients actually. He said it was the best sushi this side of Little Tokyo because Ken gets his fish fresh in Los Angeles! I had to try it out with that recommendation! I had gotten a reservation for 6, for a table. It's known for omakase so if that's what you're looking for, ask for a seat at the sushi bar. We were welcomed by Emi (Emiliano) at the front and seated immediately. Plenty of parking behind the building. Table seating in the front room and sushi bar in the back. I don't typically appreciate tv screens in restaurants, but this one was playing scenic photos of places in Japan so that was ok. My husband ordered an Echigo beer (his favorite Japanese beer which is not offered everywhere), and I ordered a glass of Plum wine. He then chose the Godzilla roll which was a crunchy roll wrapped in eel and avocado, whereas I chose the Passionflower which was tuna, salmon, yellowtail and crab meat wrapped in cucumber. Emi told me it was one of his favorites. :) My husband enjoyed the Godzilla roll very much--he found flavorful and satisfying. Both the ginger and the wasabi were fresh and delicious. The Passionflower roll was so fresh the fish melted in my mouth, and the crunch of the thinly sliced cucumber was delightful. It was by far the most unique roll I've ever tried, containing neither rice nor nori. I loved it! It paired well with my sweet plum wine and then the complimentary green tea ice cream Emi brought us for dessert! So overall, ambience was 3/5 but food and service was 5/5, I'd love to return and try other rolls! Highly recommend! read more

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220 for two people for the Omakase (without tip). There is a lack of transparency with the pricing, number of fish, and quite expensive for the quality. I cut the omakase short but I feel like I was just charged the full price. I have no clue because they keep everything secret. The fish quality was... American sushi quality. read more

I grew up in Rancho and have seen this restaurant around for all the years I've been here. I'm actually sad I didn't go back in the day before the renovation. But since then, I've been here twice so far. First time I did the omakase. It was lovely, but I think I'd enjoy the experience more if we were at the sushi bar - we were at a table - and if my whole party were doing the omakase. I can't remember everything I was served, but every bite was so fresh and so clean (clean). Second time we just got bunch of items à la cart. Just as yummy. And the server was so patient with our group. Hoping for a date night asap. read more

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Ken's finally reopened after the remodel and the place looks AMAZING!!! The white walls and bright lighting just make it feel fresh and clean. There's even a cute bar area now too. Such a great facelift! Huge thank you to Leo for the amazing service, great convo, and delicious food. So happy to see you guys back in your original spot. We made a reservation for 4 at the counter and did the omakase and it was totally worth it. The fish quality was amazing. Everything tasted so good and the presentation was on point. The HANDROLL with uni, ikura, negitoro and caviar is a MUST MUST MUST try!! The staff is always super nice and welcoming and Mr. Ken is the real MVP... he'll even take sake sips with you. The staff is really the best! Just an all around great experience, so glad you're back open! This place is a must try! read more

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Cannot see enough good things about this place! I was introduced to this place by a good friend, and it did not disappoint! The staff members have a warm attitude, provide excellent service, and it is clean inside. The quality of the seafood is amazing! I have ordered rolls, sashimi, Nigiri, and most recently on this trip had an omakase lunch served by Leo. They get the fish from all over the world, depending on where that particular fish is best, and you can taste the quality. There wasn't a predetermined number of courses for omakase... Leo just asked how much time we had and what we were looking for. We really didn't have any limitations, so he said he would keep it coming until we tell him to stop and he did just that! Left full and very happy. Can't wait to go back! read more

Had a plastic fork to eat steak. Entrance Waitress was rude. Will not come here again Spoke so the manager md told her I would not come again. She said she would talk to waitress at our table Not her problem if she can't give or get a regular fork read more

Ken's Japanese Restaurant - Plastic fork as they said no forks clean. - Japanese Near Me - Rancho Cucamonga, California

Ken's is a delicious gem and I asked myself where have you been? But I can honestly say it was a delicious experience from start to the end. I started off with a couple of the specials which were the Black Cod Miso which had a little too much sauce for me buuut that's just me being me. Next was the Tuna Flight which was so good! I would definitely get this again if available. I also had the Spanish Mackerel and the Yellow Tail, both surprisingly good. I came on a Saturday about an hour after they opened and they already ran out of the Monk Fish Liver and Black Throat Seaperch, I'm not sure how that happens but man people must like that as much as me. Service was on point and will definitely be back. The atmosphere is chill and tends to get a little noisy and echoey the as more clientele come through. Walk ins welcome but reservations are recommended. And that's my take on this sushi spot, Peace... read more

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Oh my goodness, I'm so glad we finally got to try Ken's Japanese Restaurant last Thursday! We had been wanting to go for a while, but our days off always seemed to line up with the days they were closed. My husband and I are big sushi fans, and this place did not disappoint. We decided to go with the Omakase, and it was a great experience. Mr. Ken prepared all of our sushi himself, and every piece was fresh, well-made, and delicious. The staff were very friendly and welcoming. They took the time to chat with us and made us feel comfortable throughout our visit. The restaurant has also been beautifully renovated. Both the main dining room and the sushi bar have a clean, inviting atmosphere. I highly recommend making a reservation for the sushi bar if you can. It adds to the overall experience. We will definitely be back, and we felt the price was well worth it for the quality of the food and service. Highly recommended! read more

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I live right around the corner and decided to drop by to check out their newly renovated space. I'm so glad I did! The staff is incredibly nice and welcoming, which made the experience great from the start. Most importantly, the food is delicious and super fresh. Every bite of sushi was high quality and flavorful. The only "funny" thing is the new decor--it doesn't exactly scream "traditional sushi spot." It's so sleek and modern that it almost feels like a high-end beauty salon/spa! But honestly, at the end of the day, the food is what matters most, and they nailed it. I'll definitely be back soon. Highly recommended for anyone looking for fresh sushi and great vibes! read more

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Amazing quality omakase and super friendly family run restaurant! Their restaurant is renovating so they've been temporarily at the upland ymca. (Kind of a fun and unique experience, but also doesn't take away from an authentic omakase experience). I follow their ig for updates and reservations! Everything they served was delicious and fresh. Their omakase will be different each time based on what they have fresh and what's seasonal. They also want to learn about what you like so they can help make your experience even better next time. The quality of their seafood is actually much better than a lot of LA restaurants. Their tuna, chutoro, and otoro plate was one of the best I've ever tasted. Their ikura is also really special since they marinate it homemade. read more

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I am walking away from this omakase experience feeling wronged and appalled. After we finished our omakase, I asked to speak to the manager and I appreciate that both the manager and owner heard me out and helped me feel understood. Our servers were also extremely kind and attentive. My family has been coming here for years and we love the food. Even tonight, although I sat through the worst dining experience of my life, the food was amazing. What happened tonight was largely outside of the staff's control and definitely a one-off, uniquely atrocious experience. My family was so excited to go to Ken's to celebrate my sister coming to town. We got all dressed up and had been looking forward to this reservation all week, only to be met with a completely disappointing and infuriating omakase experience. Forgive me if I'm wrong, but paying over $130 per person for omakase usually means the experience and ambiance will be a bit more upscale and dignified. I did not realize that the reservation I made would be at the same time as the world cup match, nor did I expect an omakase sushi bar to be playing it. I'm all for a fun night drinking and I understand that sports events can get rowdy, but seriously ... TIME AND PLACE. No restaurant owner can control the behavior of the people that walk through the door but it was impossible to enjoy our meal with the screaming and yelling happening. For god sakes, what are you doing screaming in a sushi restaurant??? I didn't think this was a sports bar! There was a point where one girl yelled so loud the entire restaurant hushed to silence and the man across from her said "...we're in a sushi restaurant". I could sense that the other patrons who were not in that rowdy group were extremely uncomfortable just like our family. On top of having to sit through an uncomfortable amount of rowdiness, we had to wait quite long in between courses, sometimes 15-20 mins for 3-4 pieces of sushi. The management spoke to me and apologized profusely about the situation, sharing that the group had come in the day before and asked to watch the match the next day. They agreed to have them watch the match, but I do not think they expected them to feel so comfortable being so rowdy in the restaurant. After this group finished their meal, they moved from their table and spread out across 3 tables in the restaurant to finish watching the game as if they were in their own living room. I simply do not agree with this behavior in a restaurant and don't appreciate how the staff did NOT step in to tell them to take it down a few notches so that other customers would not be made to feel so uncomfortable. What is the point of having incredible fish if it cannot even be enjoyed because of other customers' poor behavior. I'm so extremely disappointed with our experience and with the staff for not stepping in. Though the management handled our complaint well, we were still charged the full price of the omakase which came out to $416 for 3 people. The omakase chef came to speak with us and told us he would like to make things right the next time we come in. With how offensive that whole environment was, I wish they had offered to comp our dinner instead. $416 to walk away angry and disappointed. Not happy at all. read more

I used to be a regular at Ken's. I would sit at the sushi bar and Ken's son would provide great recommendations and service. I was very excited to go there tonight after not being there for years; however, I was not able to eat there becuase I was turned away for not having reservations. The place was empty with only a few tables being taken. This is not the Ken's i used to know and I was very disappointed.​ read more

We had such a great experience! We had never been here and we were made to feel welcomed even without reservations. We were two a party of two but we were immediately sat. Then the food came! WOWZERS super fresh and eye catching! We will definitely come back and have shared our experience with others already. read more

Ken's is my local Sushi spot for Omakase. Been around in Rancho for 20+years! Leo, who's taken over from Ken, runs this family business and their Insta, and it's usually reservation only. Omakase never disappoints, and Leo makes some amazing stuff with really fresh fish that they get weekly. read more

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Went today 05/09/26 at 5:17. Walked in place was completely empty... hostess said no availability completely booked. Zero patrons in the place. They wouldn't accommodate two people. F this place. read more

First time in over 10 years.. renovations are nice and employees were very personable. We had the Omakase.. sushi was nice & fresh.. everything was pretty delicious.. Leo's Roll is great especially if you love a tangy and acidic profile. We also had a 2 piece mackerel sushi, 1 Asahi, hot tea, and the cucumber and octopus salads.. it came to about $310 without tip .. Will come again.. get ready to spend that read more

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If you're looking for the best sushi you found the best place, high quality melts in your mouth, fresh & so delicious!!! This is the only place I eat sushi they are the BEST!! read more

I payed them a visit while they were located inside the YMCA. Despite the location, the omakase was an amazing experience to say the least. I can't wait to experience this again in their renovated home. read more

Ken's Japanese Restaurant - Japanese Near Me - Rancho Cucamonga, California

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Only downside to this place is the need for reservation but otherwise. Amazing great sushi place to go to. Opted out for omakase and did not have one regret. Leo is great as well as Ken. Always so friendly and very passionate about what they do. Fresh fresh fish and ingredients. They have twists to their sushi and they are just so good. They're currently under construction but the old place is comfy and a little dark but cozy! I definitely recommend this place. read more

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I've lived in Rancho for 20+ years but never went to Ken's until last night. Excellent quality sushi and real family atmosphere. Easy to see why it's a neighborhood favorite! The remodel is tasteful and the service was on point. Suggest you visit! read more

Ken's Japanese Restaurant - Miso soup - Japanese Near Me - Rancho Cucamonga, California

過得平和，心平氣和地對待自己的有無，珍惜上天的賜予，做好自己該做的事，我們的內心自然能裝下滿滿的幸福～ 今天要介紹的是在這吃貨團新認識的網友帶我去吃的日本料理，細心的她還說她注意過這家沒有人寫過，在 Rancho Cucamonga, 這邊本來我知道的餐廳就少，食物真的很有水準，坐在sushi bar, 跟美女邊聊天，邊品嚐每道細緻的 生魚片， 每道都灰熊好吃，魚片都很新鮮，師父的切出來的口感也令人驚豔， 連醋飯也是捏的嘟嘟好，當天有美女聊天， 也有入口即化的生魚片可吃，真的是很幸福的感覺，難怪美女會大力推薦這一家 不過話說回來， 也很感謝有這個吃貨平台， 讓我這兩年認識了一些談的來的朋友，有些會出來見面，有些也會在網上喇勒，練肖話， 讓忙碌又有壓力的日子中， 多了很多色彩與歡樂， 其實誰家的日子不是一地雞毛， 狗屁拉雜的事處理不完，本格格每天也是有數不完的煩心事‍‍，重要的是當我們用樂觀的心態去面對時，人生的這段旅途，就能走的輕快愉悅些， 與所有的吃貨朋友共勉之 read more

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This place now is different than before covid. Menu is really different and limited. You only can get a few rolls with limited selection. Only had omakase. Place is empty most of the time. I think the owners owned the lane and building so they don't care quality or being competitive. With the limited item I was going to order the yellowtail collar they ran out and only had salmon collar. Flavor was just ok sushi was not good small piece of fish. Everything you need to order separately including miso soup. read more

Tonight was my first time visiting this restaurant. I have to say I had the best experience. The sushi was so fresh. Great atmosphere. I was there with a very good friend. I give this one0 thumbs up. Everyone was so nice. It was, it was unbelievable. It's a must. It really, really is especially the kindness I have to give them another ten thumbs up for the kindness read more

Ken's Japanese Restaurant - Japanese Near Me - Rancho Cucamonga, California

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We enjoyed our experience! Definitely make a reservation (no walk-ins allowed), and sit at the bar so you can see the guys making the sushi. Everything is pricey, but it's a nice place. Our server was super friendly and had lots of suggestions for us. We enjoyed the sashimi bowl, but the super burrito rolls were definitely the highlight!! The toro was good and kind of melts in your mouth, but not worth the price. Rocky was definitely over-hyped and we didn't care for it at all. read more

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Lived here in Rancho for over 20 years and always passed by this restaurant and never been so we decided to make reservations and try the food. Knowing that this place is run by a Japanese sushi chef, we went straight for Omakase and didn't pick anything else from the menu. I loved how the chef chose fish that I can't normally order. The experience was amazing and the service was excellent. I tried to pay attention to the names of the fish and put them in the caption of the photos. My favorites were: Big eye tuna salad Stripe jack sushi Sea perch sushi Hokkaido scallop Miso black cod Can't wait to come back again. read more

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This is by far our most favorite sushi place to eat. The quality is exceptional and the atmosphere is cozy. We have been going there for years. They also recently completed their renovations. read more

This is hands down my favorite sushi spot -- not just in the area, but anywhere. I've been to Nobu and all the high-end places in Beverly Hills, but nothing compares to the experience at Ken's. The sushi is always incredible. The salmon with truffle oil and black caviar is my go-to -- fresh, buttery, and full of flavor every single time. Honestly, everything on the menu is top-tier. Ken himself is great -- fun to sit with at the bar, makes the whole experience feel personal. His son is an amazing chef too, and always has the best recommendations. We keep coming back, and every time it feels like a hidden gem. If you know, you know. read more

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The omakase experience was super amazing and enlightening. I highly recommend this place and think everyone should go there as an introduction to Japanese cuisine read more

Sushi is top tier!! Highly highly recommend. We been looking for a sushi restaurant and finally found our go to spot!

Fantastic!!! I lived in Rancho my whole life and just found out about this little spot. They are very attentive and know what they are talking about. We did omakase and note that the price can vary based on the fish you get. The chef was so kind and they had gluten free soy sauce, amazing. Also had the best sake I've tried, yuzu sake!!! If you are a foodie, you'll enjoy this place! Note. They are reservations only. read more

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Freshest sushi in the city by far. You won't find your rolls wrapped in seaweed here (except handrolls actually, those have seaweed paper). They instead use soy paper. Why? My guess- it's better for your palate. The soy paper is pretty much tasteless and the rolls are expertly crafted with each ingredient in mind. I noticed the rolls were not salty at all. In fact, every roll I had was fantastic. It's hard to recommend anything specifically. Even our server, who also appeared to be our own personal sushi chef, struggled to pick favorites off the menu. The only con is this restaurant has no windows and no outdoor seating. It's not my favorite ambiance. But no big deal- the quality of the fish is more important to me. I want to note that they do serve fresh wasabi. That's always a good sign. I would easily come back here because the food and service are exceptional (maybe for omokase). Ken's is the spot for sushi lovers. read more

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If you're looking for the BEST Japanese spot in Rancho, Ken's is it. This place is an absolute gem. The sushi is always super fresh, rolls are creative without being over the top, and their ramen hits the spot every single time. You can tell they put real love into their food. The staff is warm and welcoming -- it honestly feels like they're inviting you into their home. It's one of those rare restaurants where you feel just as good walking out as you did walking in... only much fuller! And then there's Leo with his Ken's pop-up at the YMCA in Upland -- what an awesome idea. He brings the same quality and flavor from the main restaurant but serves it in such a fun and unexpected setting. The food doesn't miss -- still fresh, flavorful, and made with care. What really stands out is Leo himself; you can feel his passion and energy in the way he talks about the food and connects with people. It makes the whole experience more personal and memorable. Between the restaurant and the pop-up, Ken's has become one of my favorite go-tos. If you haven't tried them yet, you're seriously missing out. read more

Best sushi in the I.E. Always the freshest fish, staff is incredible and just the best place ever. Chef Leo is A M A Z I N G!!!!

Can we take a moment of silence for the mind-blowing sushi served at Ken's? Round of applause for Chef Ken himself! Sushi - Omakase is where it's at. This gives you a chance to get to know your sushi chef, his style, and technique. This gives them a chance to showcase their best sushi/sashimi/nigiri and also get to know you of your preferences. You simply sit at the bar and sing "sushiiii take the wheeeel". Ok this may be a problem if you have trust issues but it didn't let me down last night. I was in seafood heaven at the end of the last bite. Yes, the prices are more than your usual sushi restaurant. But this isn't your usual sushi restaurant and the price justly reflects that. I was blown away with Chef Ken's Nodo Kuro. That was a first for me! Service - considering that dining in is only available with a reservation, the number of parties is limited and this allows the staff to have adequate time and attention to to each party. I love this idea. My expectation in time management is met and it's a win-win for them and you. Since we sat at the bar, we had one-on-one attention with Ken and his wife. Our glasses of sake and beer were always full. Making a reservation through Leo was also a breeze. The direct contact reminded me of the same one-on-one experience when shopping with a dedicated luxury designer sales associate. It was my first time last night but I noticed how they remembered the names of some of their patrons. I love that! Ambiance - Do not let it's humble exterior fool you. They may not have the most welcoming store front but their establishment exudes quality and consistency through their staff. They are also going to be undergoing another renovation so I'm excited to see how they transform the inside. No music playing, noise was low, friendly faces, my husband and I absolutely enjoyed our experience. We even got to share whiskey with Chef Ken. Kampai! Needless to say we'll be back and we're bringing other sushi lovers. We have to try Chef Leo's creations next after all! read more

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Definitely one of the best Omokase experiences I have ever had, and to celebrate my birthday with the Chef himself was a dream come true! He provided the origin and story behind each dish he prepared for my husband and I. Each bite was savory and delightful. I look forward to another future visit soon! read more

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Finally! Dine in with reservations! The moment that rancho cucamonga and the people have been waiting for! Leo is doing his best with his staff to keep fresh fish, and customers happy! I would say make a firm reservation a few days in advance! He posts about the menu on instagram @kens.sushi Give them a try! Please, be patient with the circumstances of the restaurant. If you're in a hurry, this may not be a place for you. It has a family friendly vibe, and an intimate family dining experience! Ask the staff about the specials, because they definitely have been serving up some hidden gems that are not on the menu! Note: Their menu is constantly changing. So, ask the staff how you can order the usual kitchen stuff al a cart! read more

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soooo amazing!!!! the quality is so noticeable and the service was excellent. the chef at the sushi bar itself was so friendly and personable and his expertise could be felt. everything was prepared quickly and deliciously. you're immediately welcomed in and treated like a respected guest. absolutely recommend visiting! read more

Ken's Japanese Restaurant - passion flower roll - Japanese Near Me - Rancho Cucamonga, California

I wish I could give this place more stars ! I have driven by this restaurant for years and never knew it was such a hidden gem of a place. I saw a review on TikTok and the quality of the fish looked amazing and I knew I had to try . The inside is the perfect ambience its reservation only which limits the amount of guest allowed in and creates the most relaxing dining experience. This is traditional sushi, they do not have that many variety of rolls which wasn't a problem for me since I go solely for sashimi lol the staff was so friendly and welcoming ! I HIGHly recommend sitting at the sushi bar if you can. The chef's are so nice and friendly and just add to the experience. Leo was our chef and he killed it . 100/10 for this place I will be returning ASAP. read more

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My week wasn't going so great, until my husband and I had an exceptional dining experience at Ken's Japanese Restaurant. The establishment might look old, but there is some history. The vibe feels very at home and the old look gives character to the establishment. When you enter, you are welcomed with open arms. Chef Leo was very nice and informative. He gave us a brief history of the restaurant, his mom and dad, their goals and plans of the restaurant, ect. We ordered the omakase. Every course was so delicious. It blew my mind how clean and flavorful each course was. The presentation was lovely. We were left with a happy full stomach. We will definitely come back. Really recommend Ken's Japanese Restaurant. read more

Ken's Japanese Restaurant - Japanese Near Me - Rancho Cucamonga, California

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First of all, I rarely have tried any sushi restaurant that I am upset after eating. We tried 2 omakase course, and server told us it would be 50 to 100 dollars per person. Then after checking they would give us a 251 dollars check before tip. Scam! Second, the server was no where to be found for the almost entire duration of our meal! Didn't even bother to explain any of the dishes served. Third! The entire restaurant environment is horrible! Plastic water cup smells of fishiness! The place is feels 30 years old! Worst omakase experience ever read more

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