Den San Diego stands as one of the premier dining destinations in the city, celebrated for its innovative fusion of Japanese and Asian-inspired dishes. The restaurant offers a menu that is carefully curated to blend traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques, providing guests with a distinctive dining experience.
something for everyone.
Overview of the Menu Concept
The menu at Den San Diego is designed to take diners on a culinary journey through Japan and beyond. It features an extensive range of options from fresh sushi rolls and sashimi to warming broths and sizzling entrées.
The emphasis is on quality ingredients, authentic flavors, and artistic presentation.
Each dish is thoughtfully prepared to balance taste, texture, and visual appeal. The chefs at Den use locally sourced produce combined with premium seafood imported directly from Japan to guarantee freshness and excellence.
“Dining at Den San Diego is not just about eating; it’s about savoring the artistry of Japanese cuisine in a welcoming and contemporary setting.”
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer section is perfect for sharing or starting your meal with a selection of light and flavorful bites. Den San Diego offers a variety of small plates that showcase classic Japanese flavors with creative twists.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Edamame | Steamed young soybeans tossed in sea salt and chili flakes. | $6 |
| Spicy Tuna Tartare | Fresh ahi tuna diced and mixed with spicy mayo, avocado, and crispy wontons. | $14 |
| Chicken Karaage | Japanese style fried chicken served with tangy ponzu sauce. | $12 |
| Gyoza | Pan-fried pork and vegetable dumplings with a soy-vinegar dip. | $10 |
| Seaweed Salad | Refreshing mix of seaweed with sesame oil and rice vinegar. | $8 |
These appetizers are expertly seasoned and prepared to awaken the palate. The Spicy Tuna Tartare is especially popular for its balance of heat and creaminess, while the Chicken Karaage offers a crispy, juicy bite.
Sushi Rolls and Sashimi
Den San Diego prides itself on its sushi offerings, featuring traditional rolls, signature creations, and fresh sashimi. Sushi chefs craft each roll with precision, combining fresh fish, vegetables, and flavorful sauces.
| Roll | Ingredients | Price |
|---|---|---|
| California Roll | Crab meat, avocado, cucumber, and sesame seeds. | $9 |
| Dragon Roll | Eel, cucumber, avocado, topped with thinly sliced avocado and eel sauce. | $16 |
| Volcano Roll | Spicy scallops baked on top of shrimp tempura roll. | $18 |
| Rainbow Roll | California roll topped with assorted sashimi slices. | $17 |
| Salmon Sashimi | Fresh, sliced Atlantic salmon served with wasabi and soy sauce. | $15 |
| Tuna Sashimi | Lean tuna cuts, silky and tender. | $17 |
The sushi and sashimi are served with freshly grated wasabi and pickled ginger to cleanse the palate between bites. The Dragon Roll’s smoky eel and creamy avocado combination is a standout favorite.
Ramen and Noodle Bowls
For those seeking a warm and comforting meal, Den San Diego offers an array of ramen and noodle bowls. Each bowl is crafted with rich broths, tender noodles, and fresh toppings, making it a hearty choice.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Tonkotsu Ramen | Creamy pork bone broth with chashu pork, soft boiled egg, bamboo shoots, and green onions. | $16 |
| Miso Ramen | Rich miso broth with corn, mushrooms, bean sprouts, and ground pork. | $15 |
| Shoyu Ramen | Soy sauce based broth with chicken, nori, and menma. | $14 |
| Yakisoba | Stir-fried noodles with vegetables and choice of chicken or shrimp. | $13 |
The Tonkotsu Ramen is a signature item known for its rich, velvety broth and perfectly cooked chashu pork slices. The Miso Ramen offers a slightly sweet and savory flavor profile, ideal for those who enjoy complex tastes.
Entrées and Specialties
Den San Diego’s entrées section showcases an exciting selection of grilled, sautéed, and baked dishes that highlight both seafood and meat options. These entrees are perfect for those looking for a more substantial meal.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Miso Glazed Black Cod | Delicate black cod marinated in sweet miso, then broiled to perfection. | $28 |
| Teriyaki Chicken | Grilled chicken breast glazed with homemade teriyaki sauce, served with steamed rice and vegetables. | $20 |
| Beef Tataki | Lightly seared beef slices served with ponzu sauce and garnished with scallions. | $22 |
| Tempura Udon | Thick udon noodles in hot broth with crispy shrimp and vegetable tempura. | $18 |
| Salmon Teriyaki | Pan-seared salmon topped with teriyaki glaze, served with sautéed vegetables. | $24 |
The Miso Glazed Black Cod is often hailed as the star of the menu, thanks to its buttery texture and perfectly balanced sweet-savory glaze. The Tempura Udon combines crispy tempura with thick, chewy noodles for a delightful textural contrast.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Den San Diego is mindful of dietary preferences and offers several vegetarian and vegan dishes. These options utilize fresh vegetables, tofu, and plant-based flavors to create satisfying meals without compromising on taste.
| Dish | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable Tempura | Lightly battered and fried seasonal vegetables served with dipping sauce. | $12 |
| Tofu Katsu | Crispy panko-crusted tofu served with tonkatsu sauce and steamed rice. | $14 |
| Vegan Ramen | Rich vegetable broth with mushrooms, tofu, and assorted vegetables. | $15 |
| Avocado Cucumber Roll | Simple and refreshing sushi roll featuring avocado and cucumber. | $8 |
The Vegan Ramen is crafted to deliver full-bodied flavor despite its plant-based ingredients, using a broth rich in umami from mushrooms and seaweed. The Tofu Katsu offers a crunchy, satisfying alternative to meat dishes.
Desserts
To conclude your meal, Den San Diego offers a selection of traditional and modern desserts that provide the perfect sweet finish. These desserts highlight Japanese flavors and ingredients with a contemporary touch.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Mochi Ice Cream | Chewy mochi filled with ice cream in flavors such as green tea, mango, and red bean. | $7 |
| Matcha Cheesecake | Rich cheesecake infused with powdered green tea, served with whipped cream. | $9 |
| Black Sesame Panna Cotta | Silky panna cotta flavored with roasted black sesame seeds. | $8 |
| Tempura Ice Cream | Vanilla ice cream wrapped in tempura batter and fried until crispy. | $9 |
The Matcha Cheesecake is a favorite among dessert lovers due to its perfect balance of creamy texture and earthy tea flavor. Meanwhile, Tempura Ice Cream offers a delightful contrast of hot and cold sensations.
Beverage Selection
Complement your meal with Den San Diego’s carefully selected beverages. The drink menu includes sake, Japanese whiskey, teas, and cocktails crafted to pair beautifully with the food.
| Beverage | Description | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Junmai Sake | Traditional Japanese sake with smooth, clean flavors. | $12 (6 oz) |
| Yuzu Margarita | Cocktail with tequila, yuzu citrus, and a salted rim. | $14 |
| Japanese Green Tea | Refreshing and earthy hot tea served traditional style. | $4 |
| Whiskey Highball | Japanese whiskey mixed with soda water and a lemon twist. | $15 |
The sake selection is thoughtfully chosen to enhance the natural flavors of the dishes, while cocktails such as the Yuzu Margarita bring a modern, refreshing twist to classic drinks.
Specialty Menus and Seasonal Offerings
Den San Diego frequently updates its menu to introduce seasonal ingredients and special chef’s creations. This ensures that guests can enjoy new flavors and dishes throughout the year.
The Omakase experience is a highlight for many visitors. This chef’s tasting menu offers a multi-course meal that changes daily based on the freshest available ingredients.
“The Omakase at Den San Diego is a culinary adventure where every course is a surprise and a delight, showcasing the chef’s artistry and passion.”
Seasonal specials may include unique sushi rolls, limited-time appetizers, and dessert innovations. These offerings provide guests with an exclusive taste of the freshest produce and seafood sourced locally and internationally.
Summary
The Den San Diego menu is a celebration of Japanese cuisine infused with creativity and quality. From fresh sushi and sashimi to hearty ramen bowls and elegant entrées, the restaurant offers a diverse range of dishes that cater to all tastes and preferences.
With a strong focus on fresh ingredients, expert preparation, and artistic presentation, every dish at Den promises a memorable dining experience. Whether you are visiting for a casual meal or a special occasion, the menu has something to impress.
Explore the Den San Diego menu to discover the perfect dish that suits your palate, and enjoy a harmonious blend of traditional and modern Japanese flavors in the heart of San Diego.
