At Wakatobi Japanese Grill, we believe great food should be accessible to everyone. As one of California's premier Halal-certified Japanese restaurants, we're proud to offer an innovative dining experience that combines authentic Japanese flavors with Islamic dietary principles. Whether you're craving the theatrical flair of hibachi or the artistry of fresh sushi, our carefully curated menu ensures every guest can enjoy the full spectrum of Japanese cuisine.

A Culinary Journey Through the Wakatobi Islands

Our special sushi platters pay homage to the beautiful Wakatobi archipelago of Indonesia — you can read the full story behind how the restaurant got its name. Each platter is thoughtfully crafted by our expert chefs, and offers a perfect balance of familiar favorites and chef-selected specialties. For a full side-by-side comparison, see our guide to the Wakatobi Special Sushi Platters:

  • The Wanci: Our most accessible chef's choice platter, featuring 5 pieces of carefully selected nigiri sushi alongside our signature California roll.
  • The Kaledupa: A diverse tasting experience featuring 4 pieces each of sashimi and nigiri, complemented by our California roll. This platter is perfect for those who appreciate both the pure flavors of sashimi and the artful balance of nigiri.
  • The Tomia: A generous combination of 5 pieces of nigiri sushi paired with both a California roll and a tuna roll, offering a delightful variety of textures and tastes.
  • The Binongko: An abundant selection of 10 pieces of nigiri sushi accompanied by our classic California roll. This platter showcases our chefs' mastery of traditional nigiri preparation, where each piece features perfectly seasoned rice topped with premium cuts of fish.

The Art of Hibachi

Step into the world of teppanyaki at our hibachi grill, where skilled chefs combine culinary expertise with entertaining showmanship. Watch in amazement as our chefs create the famous "onion volcano" and transform fresh ingredients into delectable dishes right before your eyes. Curious how hibachi differs from what you may have seen elsewhere? Our Hibachi vs. Teppanyaki guide breaks it down.

Our signature hibachi platters include:

  • The Wakatobi Newark: A land-and-sea combination featuring tender steak, succulent chicken, and fresh shrimp, served with grilled vegetables, steamed rice, soup, and salad.
  • The Wakatobi Seaside: A seafood lover's delight combining premium steak, jumbo shrimp, and fresh scallops, accompanied by our full complement of sides.

For those seeking something unique, try our specialty Calamari Steak on the hibachi grill – a distinctive preparation that showcases our innovative approach to Japanese cuisine.

Noodle Specialties and More

Our extensive noodle selection caters to every palate:

  • Wakatobi Seafood Noodles: Customize your heat level in this flavorful dish packed with fresh seafood
  • Curry Udon: Thick, chewy noodles in a rich, aromatic curry sauce
  • Nabeyaki Udon: A warming noodle soup with traditional ingredients
  • Tempura Udon: Our classic udon soup served with crispy tempura
  • Yakisoba: Stir-fried noodles with your choice of protein and fresh vegetables

From Start to Finish

Begin your meal with traditional Japanese appetizers from our appetizers menu:

  • Fresh, steamed edamame
  • Crispy gyoza dumplings
  • Warming miso soup
  • Fresh house salads

Complete your dining experience with our signature dessert – premium green tea ice cream, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and authentic matcha flavor.

Modern Ambiance, Timeless Tradition

Our restaurants in Newark and Seaside combine contemporary design with subtle Japanese aesthetics, creating the perfect setting for family and friends dining occasions. The sleek, modern interior features warm lighting and natural wood elements, while maintaining an atmosphere of understated elegance. Choose between the energetic hibachi dining area or our intimate sushi bar, where you can watch our skilled chefs — meet the team here — craft each roll with precision and artistry. Planning a group celebration? See our guide to hosting a hibachi birthday party at Wakatobi.

A Commitment to Inclusive Dining

As a Halal-certified establishment, we take pride in making Japanese cuisine accessible to our Muslim community while maintaining the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Every dish on our menu is carefully prepared to ensure it meets both Halal requirements and our exacting culinary standards. This unique combination has made us a destination for diners seeking both exceptional Japanese cuisine and Halal-certified options — see our full Halal dining guide for details on sourcing and preparation.

Refreshments and Beverages

Complement your meal with our selection of:

  • Hand-crafted soft drinks
  • Fountain beverages
  • Traditional hot tea
  • Iced tea

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the food at Wakatobi Japanese Grill Halal?

Yes. Wakatobi Japanese Grill is a Halal-certified restaurant, and every dish on our menu — from hibachi steak to sushi rolls — is prepared to meet Halal standards. Read our full Halal certification guide for more detail.

What is the difference between hibachi and sushi at Wakatobi?

Hibachi is cooked to order on a flat-top grill in front of you, often with tableside showmanship, while our sushi is prepared by hand at the sushi bar using nigiri, sashimi, and rolls. Many guests order both in one visit — our Wakatobi Special Sushi platters pair well with a hibachi entrée.

Do I need a reservation for hibachi?

Walk-ins are welcome at both locations, though reservations are recommended for larger groups, birthdays, or weekend dinners. Call your preferred location or visit our contact page to reach us directly.

Visit Us Today

Experience our unique approach to Japanese cuisine at either of our California locations — see our full Newark vs. Seaside guide for directions, hours, and what makes each spot special:

  • Newark: 35201 Newark Blvd Suite F
  • Seaside: 1130 Fremont Blvd, Suite 102A

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a business lunch, or simply craving exceptional Japanese cuisine, Wakatobi Japanese Grill welcomes you to experience our unique approach to inclusive, innovative dining.

Special Offer: Enjoy a 10% discount on your first visit! Check our website for current promotions and special offers.

For reservations or more information about our hibachi and sushi experiences, please contact your preferred location or order online. Join us in discovering why Wakatobi Japanese Grill has become a destination for those seeking exceptional Halal Japanese cuisine in California.