I love Japanese food. Of course, I’m not Japanese so I don’t claim to be an expert, but I probably go eat at new Japanese restaurants at least a couple times a month. And of all the Japanese restaurants in San Diego, Chopstix is my favorite, by far. At first glance, it seems like just another typical Asian place on Convoy with an all too small parking lot. But step inside and you’ll see that the quality and variety of food (multiple types of Ramen, Udon, Soba, etc.), the reasonable prices, and the quick and friendly service makes this a can’t miss eatery if you’ve never tried it.

I’ve been here three different times, for both lunch and dinner, and the place is always reasonably crowded, but never intolerably packed (my uncle, who judges the quality of a restuarant by the length of its wait, would be pleased). Inside the atmosphere is one that gives off a Japanese feel, without the formal setting of more elegant restaurants. There are bar type seats as well as regular tables, and a tv in th corner. It’s not so quiet that you have to whisper and not so loud that you have to yell to be heard. In other words, great for family or friends type of a gathering.

There are a couple of cons, though. The sushi selection is rather limited (compared to sushi specialty places), and the place isn’t huge, so you can’t expect to sit together if you have around ten or more people. And the parking is a pain. But I consider these to be minor inconveniences.

So order a green tea, try something new, and hit up the Yogurt World or Tapioca Express across the street afterwards. What more could you ask for?

Great value, tasty udon noodles, rice bowls and good service. This is extremely casual dining and the lights always seem too dim, its always busy, but I’ve never had to wait longer than 5 min for a seat. Not a place for sushi, don’t be fooled, but the Oyakudon and Mapodon are awesome. This is ideal if you’re too lazy to cook, as the food is like homestyle japanese cooking. Not fond of curry katsu here.