Updated September 2026
Onigilly turns Japanese onigiri into a quick and flexible lunch. Rice triangles are filled to order, wrapped with nori and paired with sides. The format is simple, but the range of fillings makes it easy to build a varied meal.
Our visit was to the Palo Alto branch. The original experience remains the basis of this review, while the locations, availability and practical details have been brought up to date.
Onigilly Review: Details
Reviewed location: 164 University Avenue, Palo Alto, California 94301
Telephone: +1 650 313 2104
Website: Onigilly Japanese Kitchen
Other locations: check the official site for current addresses and hours.
What Is Onigilly?
Onigilly specialises in onigiri, the compact Japanese rice snack often formed into a triangle. Each one combines seasoned rice, a filling and a strip of nori. The result is portable, filling and less heavy than many fast food lunches.
The concept is best understood as Japanese fast casual dining. Orders are assembled quickly, yet customers still choose individual fillings and sides.
Highlights from Our Visit
- Good variety: the menu covered seafood, meat and plant based fillings.
- Made to order: each rice ball was assembled after ordering.
- Efficient service: the compact preparation line kept the process moving.
- Useful lunch format: two or three onigiri can be mixed with soup or another side.
What We Tried
Our set included miso tuna, baked salmon and teriyaki chicken. The seafood fillings were the most memorable. Each offered enough flavour without overwhelming the rice.
The nori adds a light crispness when eaten promptly. As with most onigiri, the texture is best soon after assembly. Takeaway remains practical, but the seaweed will soften with time.
Menu and Dietary Choice
The menu has historically included fillings such as salmon, tuna, shrimp, mushroom and seasoned vegetables. Recipes and availability can change by branch. Check the current official menu before travelling.
Plant based choices have been part of the concept, but ingredients and shared preparation areas matter for allergies. Ask the team directly if you need vegan, gluten free or allergen specific guidance.
For a deeper look at rice in Japanese cooking, our Gohan Sumidaya review in Tokyo offers a useful comparison. Our Tsukiji Market guide explores another side of casual Japanese food culture.
Current Locations and Hours
The official directory currently lists several California branches. These include Kearny Street in San Francisco, Palo Alto, San Mateo, Great Mall in Milpitas and Del Amo in Torrance. The network has been expanding, so use the official site rather than an old address list.
Hours differ by branch and by day. The Palo Alto telephone number above remains the published contact for the reviewed location.
Value and Ordering Tips
- Start with two onigiri and add a third if you want a fuller lunch.
- Mix fillings rather than ordering three of the same flavour.
- Eat promptly if you prefer the nori to stay crisp.
- Check current branch prices. The old USD 2.50 to USD 3.75 range from our original review is historical.
- For another focused fast casual concept in California, see our In N Out Burger review.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many onigiri make a meal?
Two with a side can suit a lighter lunch. Three is a more filling starting point for most appetites.
Is Onigilly only in San Francisco?
No. The official directory lists branches around the Bay Area and in Southern California.
Is onigiri the same as sushi?
No. Onigiri uses compacted rice and a filling, but the rice is not normally seasoned like sushi rice.
Can Onigilly cater for vegetarians?
The menu has included vegetable and mushroom fillings. Confirm the current choice and preparation details with the branch.
The Brief Review Verdict
Onigilly is a practical choice when you want something quick without defaulting to a sandwich or burger. The rice balls are easy to mix, the fillings provide real variety and the format travels well. Our seafood choices stood out, while the simple ordering system made the meal especially convenient.
Onigilly Restaurant Review – Photos
