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Local picks in San Francisco

Japanese food

Japanese cuisine that respects traditional techniques, rather than the watered-down versions designed for a quick lunch.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Do-Re-Mi image 1
Do-Re-Mi image 2
Do-Re-Mi image 3
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Restaurant

Small family-owned spot shines with fresh onigiri in seven varieties, including vegan and Taiwanese pork. Colorful decor and hand-drawn art create a charming atmosphere. Quick service and affordable prices make it a great choice for Asian-inspired dishes and ice cream.

Freshly made onigiris come in about seven varieties, including Taiwanese pork and vegan options. Prices stay affordable, and the onigiris are filling and served quickly to order.

People are saying

"I found the onigiri here to be fantastic and well seasoned."

"The berry tea was great, and the onigiri fillings had great flavor."

"The onigiri here is fantastic and delicious Japanese food."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a variety of dishes, including rice bowls, rice balls, soups, and ice cream.

2

They offer about 7 different kinds of onigiri, which are affordable by local standards.

3

Prices at Do-Re-Mi are very reasonable for the portion sizes.

02
KEN image 1
Japanese restaurant

Six-seat counter offers an intimate, personal dining experience with direct chef interaction. Enjoy exceptional Edomae-style sushi and warm dishes perfect for colder weather. Thoughtful sake pairings enhance this refined omakase journey.

Offers a superb omakase with a mix of warm dishes and cool sushi that suits colder weather. Presents a unique sushi experience that stands out as one of the best and most memorable omakase meals around.

People are saying

"I experienced the best omakase I have ever had."

"The fish here is carefully selected and explained with passion."

"I experienced an amazing omakase, truly one of the best."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating of only 7 people.

2

Chef Ken has extensive training and experience from top restaurants in Japan.

3

The omakase experience is crafted with attention to detail and unique flavors.

03
Ebiko image 1
Sushi takeaway

Tiny sushi takeaway offers fresh fatty tuna and scallop nigiri with great value. Efficient, welcoming setup suits quick meals. Friendly staff keep the line moving for a fast, affordable Japanese food experience.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and high quality fatty tuna and scallop. The omakase nigiri sets offer a variety of premium pieces at a reasonable price, making it a solid choice for takeout sushi.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, it melts in your mouth."

"The takeout sushi here is top-tier quality for a great price."

"I found the sushi here to be affordable and good quality."

Good to know

1

Ebiko offers takeout only, which makes the service very quick.

2

The line at Ebiko moves really fast, especially during lunch hours.

3

I suggested ordering online to avoid the lunch crowd.

04
Kombu image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, modern Japanese spot shines with fresh sushi and a calm atmosphere. Perfect for intimate dinners or casual meetups, it offers a private room for exclusivity. Sashimi and classic rolls stand out for flavor and presentation.

Sushi here is consistently fresh and flawlessly prepared with perfectly seasoned rice. The sashimi platter features beautifully presented fish full of flavor, and classic rolls like California and Salmon Avocado are done right.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing and very fresh."

"The Wagyu tartare melted in my mouth."

"I found Kombu to be a fantastic hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Street parking is available on Harrison, but can be limited.

2

You can park in the nearby Whole Foods lot for a maximum of 90 minutes.

3

The kitchen closes at 8:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

05
SHOWA Le Gourmet Tonkatsu image 1
Tonkatsu restaurant

Intimate setting with 18 seats and a semi-open kitchen offers a cozy Tokyo alley vibe. Enjoy a tonkotsu omakase tasting menu featuring dry age pork tonkatsu and creative appetizers. Quiet, adult-only space suits special occasions perfectly.

Offers a tonkotsu omakase tasting menu focused on dry age pork tonkatsu and creative appetizers. Add-ons include tuna sashimi, A5 wagyu, and menchi katsu for a unique Japanese food experience.

People are saying

"This Japanese dining experience felt truly unique and amazing."

"The sashimi here is divine, with exquisite, complementary flavors."

"This Japanese food is an explosive pleasure, truly amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required as they only seat 18 guests per night.

2

No children or babies are allowed in the restaurant.

3

The prix fixe menu costs $150 for 10-12 courses before tax and fees.

06
Sushi Easy image 1
Sushi restaurant

Tiny sushi spot shines with fresh sushi and high-quality fish. Cozy, casual vibe with cute decor and a pleasant playlist makes dining relaxing. Affordable prices and homemade cheesecake offer great value and sweet finishes.

Fresh, well made sushi stands out with high quality fish and a variety of cooked dishes. Complimentary miso soup and homemade cheesecake desserts add thoughtful touches.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"It's a cozy spot with a pleasant, welcoming atmosphere."

"The Japanese food here is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices at Sushi Easy are very reasonable for the quality of sushi offered.

2

They offer good meal deals that provide great value.

3

Sushi Easy is known for its high-quality ingredients in every dish.

07
Amami Sushi Bistro Geary image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small space with ample lighting and a laid-back vibe offers fresh sashimi and generous portions at great prices. Seating by the window adds a cozy touch while enjoying affordable omakase with buttery nigiri and quality sushi.

Sashimi stands out with super fresh, thick, melt-in-your-mouth slices. Omakase offers huge portions of fresh, buttery nigiri that many find fantastic and affordable. Sushi and cold dishes maintain high quality and freshness throughout.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"I found the omakase to be super delicious and fresh."

"The chicken katsu here has a really satisfying crisp."

Good to know

1

Parking can be slightly challenging in the area.

2

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes at reasonable prices.

3

The price for the chefโ€™s best is $42, which is considered a great value.

08
Akari Japanese Bistro image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Space offers authentic Japanese ambiance with cozy lighting and soft music. Kaiseki dishes reveal small delights, especially pure sashimi and melt-in-the-mouth Washu beef sukiyaki. Live blue fin tuna cutting adds a unique, engaging element to dining.

Kaiseki here offers small revelations with each plate, featuring sashimi so pure it tastes like the memory of the ocean. Sushi rice stands out as some of the best, and the sukiyaki with Washu beef is melt-in-the-mouth tender.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's authentic Japanese food is phenomenal and worth the price."

"The service here is outstanding and welcoming."

"You have to see the live bluefin tuna cutting with Japanese food!"

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special events like live tuna cutting.

2

The restaurant is run by a husband-and-wife duo, adding a personal touch.

3

The menu changes daily, offering a surprise with each visit.

09
Fenikkusu - Tapas and Omakase image 1

Cozy spot with intimate lighting and anime decor sets a calm mood. Nigiri omakase shines with fatty bluefin and buttery snapper. Sushi counter buzzes with locals and travelers, blending izakaya chic and authentic flavors.

Nigiri omakase offers phenomenal quality with a great fish selection including fatty cuts like bluefin breast and buttery snapper. Dishes like flame torched saba and tri-tip katsu stand out, all at a very reasonable price point.

People are saying

"The omakase nigiri here is amazing and a great value."

"The Japanese Food here, especially the Mentaiko Udon, is rich without being heavy."

"It's a hidden gem with a cozy, romantic ambiance and top-tier sushi."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the omakase experience, especially on weekends.

2

Expect wait times of over 30 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

The omakase experience typically costs around $160 per person before tax and tip.

10
Yuja image 1
Asian restaurant

Bright, modern space offers a cozy vibe with large tables perfect for groups. Teriyaki dishes shine with a nutty sauce, especially the chicken teriyaki bowl. Bold, fresh flavors make each Asian-fusion bowl healthy and satisfying.

Teriyaki dishes stand out with a nutty, not overly sweet sauce. Chicken teriyaki bowls come fresh, filling, and packed with flavorful sauce. Tofu and shaking beef also feature as solid options.

People are saying

"I found the healthy food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The chicken teriyaki is lip-smacking and perfectly balanced."

"The Japanese Food, especially the teriyaki chicken, is lip-smacking and amazing."

Good to know

1

Yuja offers affordable Asian-inspired bowls with many customization options.

2

The meals are reasonably priced for downtown San Francisco, averaging around $14.

3

Yuja has a secret menu featuring teriyaki sauce with chicken or tofu.

11
Curry Hyuga - San Francisco image 1

Cozy seating and upbeat anime music create a lively vibe. Enjoy crispy pork katsu with rich curry sauce and miso sauce on tonkatsu teishoku. Tables have spice seasonings and gadgets for easy service, making it casual and affordable.

Japanese curry here features crispy pork katsu with a juicy inside and a rich curry sauce that pairs perfectly. The tonkatsu teishoku comes with a miso sauce that adds a comforting, savory touch.

People are saying

"The katsu curry here is crispy and delicious."

"They offered six levels of chili, from mild to habanero."

"The Japanese food here, especially the katsu, is so crispy and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a 4% SF Healthy Mandate fee on all orders.

2

Different spice level seasonings are available at the tables to customize spice levels.

3

The portion size and pricing are reasonable for San Francisco.

12
Fermentation Lab Japantown image 1

Space features high ceilings and elegant decor with varied seating. Crunchy textures shine in Katsu Loco Moco and Menchi Katsu Burger, paired with sauces like miso and gorgonzola. Music stays low for easy talk, and well-behaved dogs add to the friendly vibe.

Crunchy textures stand out in the Katsu Loco Moco and Menchi Katsu Burger. Sauces like miso and gorgonzola blend well, especially on the wings and burgers. Gyoza dumplings and cajun waffle fries add variety to the flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is rich, flavorful, and delicious."

"The squid ink pasta and Katsu Loco Moco were standouts for dinner."

"I found the Japanese food here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with a selection of food and drinks.

2

They offer $2 oysters during happy hour, making it a great deal.

3

Parking can be difficult, so plan accordingly before your visit.

13
Nippon-Ya image 1
Japanese confectionery shop

Shop offers imported mochi in flavors like chocolate and strawberry with generous sampling. Beautiful packaging makes it perfect for gift shopping. Selection includes traditional snacks like savory rice crackers and teas, blending taste and presentation.

Selection includes mochi and Japanese confections like cookies and savory rice crackers. Mochi comes in flavors such as chocolate and strawberry, with samples offered generously. Packaging is nicely wrapped and attractive, and mochi is imported from Japan.

People are saying

"You'll find beautifully packaged Japanese sweets and mochi here."

"I found beautifully packaged mochi boxes, perfect for gifting."

Good to know

1

The shop offers a variety of traditional Japanese sweets and snacks.

2

Many items are directly imported from Japan, providing a unique selection.

3

They offer collaboration items featuring popular series like Demon Slayer and Hello Kitty.

14
Elephant Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Bar seating offers an intimate atmosphere like a Tokyo hole-in-the-wall. Sushi is incredibly fresh with expert sashimi and flaming options. Enjoy complimentary green tea and sashimi from a skilled chef in a fun, upbeat vibe.

Sushi here is incredibly fresh with expertly prepared sashimi and flaming sushi options. The chef offers complimentary green tea and sashimi, creating a welcoming and casual dining experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"I thought the sashimi here was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited dine-in seating.

2

The sushi chef has over 20 years of experience in crafting fine sushi.

3

All ingredients are sourced fresh daily for the best quality.

15
K Dragon cuisine image 1
Asian fusion restaurant

Small Asian fusion spot offers a cozy atmosphere perfect for casual meals. Enjoy rich ramen and udon bowls alongside fresh salmon poke with tasty sauce. Tables stay clean and stocked, ensuring a neat dining experience away from busy crowds.

Ramen and udon bowls stand out with rich flavors. Bento combos include eel, tempura, and salad. The salmon poke bowl mixes rice, spinach, and fresh toppings with a tasty sauce.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the poke bowls, was so delicious."

"It's a nice and quiet spot to enjoy dinner."

"The curry chicken here is special with its crunchy chicken."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a vegetarian menu section for plant-based options.

2

Portion sizes are generous, often enough to share between two people.

3

K Dragon cuisine is one of the more affordable dining options in Japantown.

16
Potto image 1
Restaurant

Individual induction hot pots built into tables create a clean and sleek dining setup. Soft-shell crab tempura and Sukiyaki Nabe with American Wagyu short ribs offer rich flavors. Bright, casual atmosphere with Japanese-inspired details keeps the space cozy and chic.

Soft-shell crab tempura and Sukiyaki Nabe with American Wagyu short ribs stand out for their rich flavors and quality ingredients. Udon dishes come perfectly cooked and full of depth, while teriyaki-glazed crusts add a smoky touch.

People are saying

"The sukiyaki hot pot here is amazing, especially the quality of the meat."

"The nabe here is something I would dream about."

"The udon here is rich, flavorful, and cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand during dinner hours.

2

Each person receives their own pot for cooking at the table.

3

Expect generous portion sizes; two people can share one pot plus a side.

17
The Roll image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers super fresh tuna and a cozy, modern vibe. Enjoy perfectly seasoned rice in a quiet, stylish setting. The affordable futomaki roll blends sashimi with unique seasoning for great flavor.

Sushi features super fresh cuts of tuna, salmon, and amberjack with perfectly seasoned rice. The futomaki called โ€œThe Rollโ€ blends sashimi with a unique seasoning for great flavor at an affordable price.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious, especially the sushi and miso soup."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"You have to try the Basque cheesecake; it's perfectly charred and fluffy."

Good to know

1

The hand rolls start at $6, offering great quality for the price.

2

The restaurant opened in December 2024, making it a newer establishment.

3

The rolls used to come with 10 pieces, but now they come with 6.

18
Altamirano Restaurant & Bar image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Enjoy authentic Peruvian dishes and fresh sashimi served from a smoked container. The covered patio with a fireplace table and live Spanish guitar creates a stylish, intimate atmosphere perfect for savoring cocktails like pisco sours.

Sashimi arrives from a smoked container, highlighting its freshness and presentation. The ahi tuna tiraditos and salmon brulee starters offer delicious, fresh flavors that stand out.

People are saying

"The dinner here is incredible, especially the ceviche and Lomo Saltado."

"The cocktails here are divine and works of art."

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6pm with a special menu.

2

Pisco tasting events occur occasionally; check the schedule.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

19
Gus's image 1
Grocery store

Grocery store offers fresh produce and quality prepared foods like amazing poke bowls and sushi. Space feels cramped and unwelcoming. Outdoor seating lets you eat on site.

Fresh sushi and amazing poke bowls stand out here. Both dishes deliver solid flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I found Gus's to be a great neighborhood grocery store."

"I loved the delicious, fresh-made sandwiches."

"The Japanese food, especially the poke and sushi, is amazing and fresh."

Good to know

1

Gus's offers a wide selection of organic products and specialty items.

2

Prepared meals, salads, meat, and fish are available for takeout.

3

Deli sandwiches are popular and a great option for a meal.

20
Tadaima Inner Sunset image 1

Spacious cafe offers an inviting vibe with bench seating and cute decor. Fresh onigiri flavors like shiso salmon shine alongside crispy Chicken Karaage Sando. Easy grab-and-pay system pairs well with drinks like matcha latte for a smooth experience.

Fresh onigiris stand out with flavors like shiso salmon topped with tobiko and pickles inside. The grab-and-pay system makes it easy to enjoy a variety of Japanese snacks alongside drinks like matcha latte.

People are saying

"I loved the huge selection of delicious onigiri here."

"The matcha latte with strawberry cream was delicious."

"The Japanese food, especially the onigiri and sandwiches, is perfect for a picnic."

Good to know

1

Expect a one-hour wait during busy times, especially on weekends.

2

The menu features a variety of onigiri options.

3

Indoor seating is available for guests.

21
K Minamoto | San Francisco image 1
Japanese confectionery shop

Neat shop with elegant display cases offers authentic Japanese sweets like mochi with soft chew and unique fillings such as sweetened chestnut paste and red bean. Fresh fruit mochi, including kumquat, delivers a balanced sweetness with a slightly salty twist. Atmosphere feels classy and refined, perfect for gifting.

Mochi here features a soft chew with fillings like sweetened chestnut paste and red bean wrapped in cherry blossom leaves. Fresh fruit mochi, including kumquat, offers a moist, sweet, and slightly salty flavor balance that stands out.

People are saying

"The Japanese sweets and mochi here are fresh and delicious."

"I found the mochi here to be incredibly delicious and flavorful."

"I found authentic Japanese dessert treats with traditional wrapping."

Good to know

1

K Minamoto offers unique and authentic Japanese dessert treats.

2

Expect higher prices for the quality of authentic Japanese treats.

3

Gluten-free options are available for those with dietary restrictions.

22
Ushi Taro Ramen SOMA image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with warm wooden decor creates a cozy vibe. Ramen boasts perfectly cooked noodles with rich bone marrow and black garlic oil. Gyudon blends Chinese and Singaporean flavors, offering a unique twist on Japanese food.

Ramen here features noodles cooked to perfection, soft yet chewy, with inventive twists like bone marrow for richness and black garlic oil for depth. The Gyudon offers a unique blend of Chinese and Singaporean flavors rather than traditional Japanese style.

People are saying

"The ramen with bone marrow is so rich and flavorful."

"Their ramen is uniquely flavored with inventive twists."

"The Japanese food here, especially the ramen, is rich with bone marrow."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is small and fills up quickly, so arrive early.

2

They specialize in beef ramen, with only one veggie/tofu option available.

3

Prices are reasonable, with most ramen dishes under $15.

23
V CAFE LLC image 1

Small cafe offers a quiet, homey vibe with generous portions of fresh food. Poke bowls feature salmon and spicy tuna for a filling meal. Affordable prices make it a great spot for a neighborhood lunch with fresh ingredients.

Poke bowls come with generous portions and a variety of fresh ingredients. Options include salmon and spicy tuna proteins, offering a filling and satisfying meal at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"I loved the customizable breakfast burritos with lots of meat."

"The seafood here is so fresh, I'd never had fish this good."

"The poke bowls here are delicious and filling."

Good to know

1

The huge bagel breakfast sandwich for $9 offers great value in the financial district.

2

The poke bowl is a large serving and priced competitively.

3

Customization options for the poke bowl are available to suit your taste.

24
Lion West Portal image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi shines with innovative pairings and a unique cart service delivering small plates Dim Sum-style. Cozy, chic interior offers an elegant yet casual vibe across two floors. Large vegan selection complements fresh nigiri and specialty rolls for a diverse dining experience.

Sushi here features innovative pairings like uni on tuna and a sushi cart offering an omakase experience with chef's choice dishes. The nigiri rice stands out as some of the best, and vegan sushi options are also available and well-crafted.

People are saying

"The vegetarian rolls here are creative and really good."

"I found the nigiri to be amazing, very fresh, and of high quality."

"I haven't had cheaper nigiri of this caliber anywhere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant fills up quickly.

2

The restaurant operates on a no-tip model, including service fees in menu prices.

3

Expect to pay around $40 per person without drinks.

25
Happy Shabu Shabu image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Small, rustic spot serves authentic Japanese hot pot with outstanding Wagyu beef. Cozy, intimate vibe keeps noise low and chatter friendly. All-you-can-eat menu offers great value and attentive service.

Offers authentic Japanese hot pot with excellent US Wagyu beef options. The all-you-can-eat shabu shabu menu provides a fun and delicious dining experience with attentive service guiding you through the process.

People are saying

"The Japanese hot pot here is delicious and authentic."

"The Wagyu here is fantastic and a great steal for-real steal."

"The service here makes it a great spot for a date."

Good to know

1

The cost ranges from $30 to $60 for all-you-can-eat options.

2

Each table has an electric burner for cooking your own shabu shabu.

3

The restaurant does not charge any additional service or health fees.

26
YASIJANG image 1
Korean restaurant

Small space with authentic Korean tables and neon lights offers a cozy vibe. Sushi is amazing quality and cheap, with a secret menu for nigiri lovers. Unique touches like a ramyeon machine and diverse soju make it perfect for casual meals or dates.

Sushi here offers amazing quality at a cheap price with options like a secret menu 10 pieces nigiri that feels authentic. Bento box lunch specials and Korean dishes like bossaam and wasabi octopus add tasty variety.

People are saying

"The Korean food here has bold flavors and great banchan."

"The kimchi fried rice here is delicious and authentic."

"I loved the sushi and tasty Korean food here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 10PM to 12AM, Monday to Saturday.

2

Enjoy $8 soju bottles, $3 sake, and $5 beer during happy hour.

3

The kitchen closes 30 minutes before closing time.

27
Ramen Kameko image 1
Japanese restaurant

Enjoy authentic Tokyo style ramen with rich Tonkotsu broth and tender pork belly in a chill, small-town vibe setting. The restaurant offers free noodle refills and features simple Japanese-inspired decor that keeps the atmosphere quiet even when busy.

Authentic Tokyo style ramen shines here with rich Tonkotsu broth and tender braised pork belly. The Miso Ramen blends white and red miso for a creamy, well-balanced flavor, and each order includes a free noodle refill.

People are saying

"I found the ramen broth to be full of flavor."

"These gyoza are so fresh and delicious, you'll want another order."

"The Japanese food here, especially the ramen, has a seriously good, flavorful broth."

Good to know

1

There is a 15% discount available until the end of May 2025.

2

Each ramen order comes with one free noodle refill.

3

I paid approximately $15 for the tonkotsu ramen, which is a good value.

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