Top 31 Japanese restaurants in San Francisco

Discover our curated list of top-ranked Japanese restaurants in San Francisco, compiled from extensive research across reputable websites and blogs. Explore outstanding options like PABU Izakaya, Ozumo San Francisco, Ryoko's Japanese Restaurant & Bar, Ebisu Restaurant, Roka Akor. Let's explore together!

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1. PABU Izakaya

High-end izakaya with a focus on quality ingredients and expert preparation

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1063 Review by google)
  • Address:

    101 California St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States

  • Pros:

    Upscale atmosphere, extensive sake menu, delicious and beautifully presented dishes
  • Cons:

    Pricey for an izakaya, small portions, reservations can be hard to come by
  • Popular Menu:

    Pork Kakuni, Yellowtail Sashimi, Grilled Australian Lamb Chops
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60 per person
Phone Directions Website
PABU Izakaya offers a delightful dining experience, earning a solid 4.5/5 from me. My friends and I visited on a Saturday to indulge in their SF restaurant week menu, taking advantage of the fantastic happy hour deals until 5:30 pm. The Japanese cuisine served here is truly exceptional, exceeding our expectations. Despite some initial seating challenges at the busy bar, we were promptly accommodated with a reserved table. The impeccable service, along with the exquisite wine and food selection, made for a memorable and unrivaled dining experience.

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Cheap Eats
  • Vegan Options

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2. Ozumo San Francisco

Upscale sushi dining with a view of the San Francisco Bay

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1457 Review by google)
  • Address:

    161 Steuart St, San Francisco, CA 94105, United States

  • Pros:

    Outdoor seating, extensive sushi selection, harbor views
  • Cons:

    Expensive prices, small portions, long wait times
  • Popular Menu:

    Omakase tasting menu, Dragon Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll
  • Price Range:

    $50-$100 per person
Phone Directions Website
Step into the sophisticated world of Ozumo San Francisco, where every sip is an experience to remember. Your journey begins with expertly crafted drinks that tantalize your taste buds. From the first pour to the last drop, each sip reveals layers of flavor that dance on your palate. Whether you prefer your whiskey neat or on the rocks, the bartenders at Ozumo deliver a libation experience like no other.
As you explore the stylish ambiance of the bar area, you'll find yourself enveloped in a cozy oasis of tranquility. The perfect setting to unwind and savor the culinary delights that await you. From exquisite sushi creations to delectable dishes that satisfy every craving, Ozumo's menu is a symphony of flavors. Impeccably prepared and beautifully presented, each bite is a culinary masterpiece. And let's not forget about the drinks – they steal the show with their creativity and artistry, elevating your dining experience to new heights. Indulge in the best of both worlds at Ozumo San Francisco – where exceptional drinks and delectable dishes await.

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • High-End
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

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3. Ryoko's Japanese Restaurant & Bar

Intimate, hidden gem in the city with a dedicated sushi bar

  • Time:

    6 to 11:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (1821 Review by google)
  • Address:

    619 Taylor St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Japanese cuisine, cozy atmosphere, extensive sake list, wide variety of vegetarian options
  • Cons:

    Pricey for some, small portions, cash-only, reservations can be hard to get
  • Popular Menu:

    Sushi rolls, ramen, bento boxes
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60 per person
Phone Directions Website
Indulge in an exquisite dining experience at Ryoko's Japanese Restaurant & Bar by trying their delectable sashimi dinner. Immerse yourself in the expertly curated selection as the knowledgeable staff guide you on what to savor, how to savor it, and the perfect sequence, whether with or without soy sauce. Each bite is a burst of flavor that leaves you craving for more. The impeccable service adds to the overall enjoyment, ensuring a delightful and swift culinary journey.
Discover a hidden gem at this cozy underground sushi haven, perfect for a romantic date night or a casual dinner with a companion. While evenings may get bustling, arriving before 7 guarantees you a seat and prompt service. The charming ambiance sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Though the menu may seem intricate at first glance, the tantalizing dishes deliver an explosion of taste that makes every visit worthwhile.

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Vegan Options
  • Happy Hours

4. Ebisu Restaurant

Authentic Japanese cuisine in a cozy, intimate setting

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 2 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (1087 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1283 9th Ave, San Francisco, CA 94122, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of Japanese dishes, cozy atmosphere, attentive service
  • Cons:

    Prices slightly above average, cash only, limited parking
  • Popular Menu:

    Sushi rolls, ramen, and tonkatsu
  • Price Range:

    $20 - $40 per person
Phone Directions Website
Ebisu Restaurant embodies the essence of authentic Japanese cuisine, serving up a delectable array of fresh and flavorful dishes. Embracing a health-conscious approach, this eatery caters to those seeking nourishing dining options. Seated at the bar, I engaged with the chefs, admiring their culinary mastery and dedication.
Despite its culinary prowess, Ebisu Restaurant's limited seating capacity often results in extended wait times. Even arriving early at 5 p.m. on a Friday, my party found ourselves perched for an hour. Nevertheless, the establishment's quality fare and reasonable pricing make it a standout choice among San Francisco's Japanese dining scene.

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • High-End
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

5. Roka Akor

Modern Japanese cuisine with a focus on robata and sushi

  • Time:

    5 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (1161 Review by google)
  • Address:

    801 Montgomery St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

  • Pros:

    Upscale atmosphere, exceptional sushi and seafood, attentive service
  • Cons:

    Expensive pricing, limited parking, small portions
  • Popular Menu:

    Tuna Tataki, Wagyu Roka Roll, Maine Lobster
  • Price Range:

    $60 - $150 per person
Phone Directions Website
Roka Akor offers a delightful dining experience with delectable dishes and attentive service. While I didn't sample the sushi, the other menu items were bursting with flavor. The Wagyu meat and rice and mushroom stew were highlights, although the Wagyu was slightly overdone. The sashimi and sushi were decent but lacked the wow factor, with the fish tasting less than fresh. Service was satisfactory throughout the meal.

TOPICS

  • Corporate Events
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Waterfront

6. Benihana

Interactive and entertaining dining experience with skilled chefs who cook your meal right in front of you

  • Rating: 3.9/5 (1536 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1737 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

  • Pros:

    Unique dining experience with entertaining tableside cooking, delicious Japanese-American cuisine, and a lively atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Can be on the pricier side, some dishes may be hit-or-miss in terms of quality, and noise level can be high
  • Popular Menu:

    Hibachi steak, sushi rolls, and signature sauces like ginger and mustard
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60 per person
Phone Directions Website
Benihana, a tourist favorite, never fails to entertain with its chef's culinary theatrics. Despite the steep prices, the mouthwatering dishes - from soup to lemonade to veggies - and the amiable chef like Mario ensure a memorable dining experience. Whether it's your first visit or a return after decades, the excitement and delicious food keep pulling patrons back for more.

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • High-End

7. Mensho Tokyo SF

Authentic Tokyo-style ramen, Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant in San Francisco

  • Time:

    5 to 10 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (2364 Review by google)
  • Address:

    672 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

  • Pros:

    Rave reviews for delicious and authentic ramen, Dedicated following, Stylish and modern atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Prices slightly higher than other ramen restaurants, Limited seating, Cash-only policy
  • Popular Menu:

    Tonkotsu Black, Spicy Tobanjan Mazesoba, Tsukemen
  • Price Range:

    $15 - $20
Directions

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

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8. KUSAKABE

High-end sushi experience with a focus on seasonal and sustainable ingredients

  • Time:

    5 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.8/5 (646 Review by google)
  • Address:

    584 Washington St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States

  • Pros:

    Upscale atmosphere, outstanding customer service, creative and delicious omakase menu
  • Cons:

    Expensive pricing, limited seating, no a la carte menu
  • Popular Menu:

    Chef's Omakase, Nigiri Set, Uni Tempura
  • Price Range:

    $150-$200 per person
Phone Directions Website
KUSAKABE in San Francisco is a delightful omakase spot with exquisite dishes and inviting chef-hosted experiences. While the ambiance enhances the dining pleasure, some noise levels may hinder clear communication with the chef. Yet, the impeccable service compensates, with attentive waitstaff offering detailed descriptions of each meticulously crafted dish and sushi served.

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Waterfront
  • Dinner

9. Akiko's Sushi Bar

High-quality sushi prepared by experienced chefs

  • Time:

    11 AM to 2:45 PM

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (838 Review by google)
  • Address:

    542A Mason St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

  • Pros:

    Excellent sushi quality, friendly service, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Pricey, limited seating, cash-only
  • Popular Menu:

    Omakase (chef's choice), Dragon Roll, Yellowtail Jalapeno
  • Price Range:

    $50-$100 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • American Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Vegan Options

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10. Maru Sushi

Traditional Japanese decor and intimate atmosphere

  • Time:

    11 AM to 10 PM

  • Rating: 4.1/5 (974 Review by google)
  • Address:

    529 Powell St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

  • Pros:

    Centrally located in Union Square, wide variety of sushi rolls, offers vegetarian options
  • Cons:

    Higher prices, mixed reviews on service, small seating area
  • Popular Menu:

    California roll, spicy tuna roll, dragon roll
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Vegan Options
  • Gluten-Free

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11. AKIKOS

Fresh and high-quality ingredients, carefully crafted rolls and sashimi

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 1:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (706 Review by google)
  • Address:

    430 Folsom St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of sushi options, convenient location in downtown San Francisco, attentive and friendly service
  • Cons:

    Higher price point, small seating area that can get crowded during peak hours, limited vegetarian options
  • Popular Menu:

    Rainbow Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Akiko's Special Roll
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30 per plate
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • High-End
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

12. Izakaya Sozai

Traditional Japanese atmosphere and unique dining experience

  • Rating: 4.3/5 (587 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1500 Irving St, San Francisco, CA 94122, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Japanese izakaya, wide variety of dishes, friendly and helpful staff
  • Cons:

    Small and crowded seating area, limited parking options, cash-only policy
  • Popular Menu:

    Grilled skewers, udon noodles, and Japanese fried chicken
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Social Gatherings
  • Asian Cuisine
  • Happy Hours
  • Hidden Gems

13. Saru Sushi Bar

Family-owned sushi bar with a focus on traditional techniques

  • Time:

    12 to 2 PM

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (657 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3856 24th St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

  • Pros:

    Fresh and high-quality sushi, Friendly and attentive service, Cozy and intimate atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Prices slightly above average, Limited seating available, Cash only accepted
  • Popular Menu:

    Saru Roll, Dragon Roll, Yellowtail Sashimi
  • Price Range:

    $$ (Pricey)
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Mediterranean Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

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14. Kui Shin Bo

Authentic Japanese ramen with a modern twist

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 8:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (725 Review by google)
  • Address:

    22 Peace Plaza #2, 22 Peace Plz, San Francisco, CA 94115, United States

  • Pros:

    Centrally located, Wide variety of dishes, Attentive service
  • Cons:

    Can be noisy, Limited vegetarian options, Pricey for some items
  • Popular Menu:

    Tonkotsu Ramen, Gyoza, Katsu Curry
  • Price Range:

    $15 - $30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Vegan Options
  • Budget-Friendly Eats

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15. Domo

High-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations

  • Time:

    5 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (522 Review by google)
  • Address:

    511 Laguna St, San Francisco, CA 94102, United States

  • Pros:

    Central location in downtown San Francisco, Wide variety of Japanese dishes, Modern and stylish decor
  • Cons:

    Pricey for some items on the menu, Limited parking options, Smaller portions compared to other Japanese restaurants
  • Popular Menu:

    Ramen, Sushi Rolls, Bento Boxes
  • Price Range:

    $15 - $30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Hidden Gems

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16. Hazie's

Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • American Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Social Gatherings
  • Celebrations

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17. Eiji

Authentic Japanese ramen and small bites

  • Time:

    4 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (444 Review by google)
  • Address:

    317 Sanchez St, San Francisco, CA 94114, United States

  • Pros:

    Known for delicious ramen and gyoza, cozy atmosphere, friendly service
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, cash-only, no reservations accepted
  • Popular Menu:

    Tonkotsu ramen, spicy miso ramen, gyoza
  • Price Range:

    $12-$15
Phone Directions

TOPICS

  • Italian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner
  • Social Gatherings

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18. Nara

Upscale sushi restaurant with a modern atmosphere

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (490 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1515 Polk St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

  • Pros:

    Central location in downtown San Francisco, Extensive sushi menu, Vegetarian and gluten-free options available
  • Cons:

    Pricey for some, Limited parking nearby, Some reports of slow service
  • Popular Menu:

    Nara Roll, Dragon Roll, Yellowtail Sashimi
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

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19. Kibatsu

Authentic Japanese sushi in a laid-back atmosphere

  • Time:

    5:30 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (181 Review by google)
  • Address:

    400 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of sushi rolls, Located in the heart of Haight-Ashbury, Attentive and friendly service
  • Cons:

    Pricey for the area, Limited seating, Some menu items may contain unexpected ingredients
  • Popular Menu:

    Philadelphia Roll, Dragon Roll, Spider Roll
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Fusion Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Mid-Range
  • Social Gatherings

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20. Fenikkusu - Tapas and Omakase

Exciting and innovative dishes that blend two cultures

  • Time:

    5 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.8/5 (157 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1009 Guerrero St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers a unique fusion of Spanish and Japanese cuisine, friendly and attentive staff, cozy and intimate atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, may have to wait for a table, prices on the higher side
  • Popular Menu:

    Tapas such as Gindara Karaage and Uni Toast, Omakase menu
  • Price Range:

    $50 - $100 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Downtown Spots

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21. Wako Japanese Restaurant

Family-owned and operated, focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients

  • Time:

    5:30 to 10 PM

  • Rating: 4.7/5 (445 Review by google)
  • Address:

    211 Clement St, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Japanese cuisine, excellent sushi and sashimi, warm and friendly atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, cash-only policy, may have a wait during peak hours
  • Popular Menu:

    Salmon Belly, Yellowtail Sashimi, Dragon Roll
  • Price Range:

    $$ (moderate)
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Gluten-Free
  • Dinner
  • Weekend Dining

22. An | Japanese Restaurant

Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Mid-Range

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23. Grandeho's Kamekyo

Authentic Japanese sushi experience in a cozy setting

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (422 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2721 Hyde St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of sushi options, attentive service, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Pricey for the portion size, cash-only policy, limited seating
  • Popular Menu:

    Dragon Roll, Rainbow Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Downtown Spots
  • Mid-Range

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24. Sushi On North Beach

Fresh ingredients, skilled itamae (sushi chefs), vibrant atmosphere

  • Time:

    5 to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (432 Review by google)
  • Address:

    745 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Japanese cuisine, centrally located in San Francisco, offers vegetarian options, sake menu
  • Cons:

    Can be pricey, may get crowded during peak hours, limited parking nearby
  • Popular Menu:

    California Roll, Dragon Roll, Yellowtail Jalapeño
  • Price Range:

    $$ (out of $$$$)
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • Vegetarian Options

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25. Omakase

James Beard Award-winning chef, Exclusive dining experience

  • Time:

    5 to 9:30 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (387 Review by google)
  • Address:

    665 Townsend St, San Francisco, CA 94103, United States

  • Pros:

    Offers an authentic Japanese culinary experience, Chef's tasting menu with fresh and high-quality ingredients, Warm and elegant atmosphere
  • Cons:

    No a la carte menu available, Pricey for some, Reservations required and can be hard to secure
  • Popular Menu:

    Omakase, Sushi, Sashimi
  • Price Range:

    $150-$200 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Downtown Spots
  • High-End

26. Akira Japanese Restaurant

Intimate sushi dining experience with fresh, carefully selected ingredients

  • Time:

    12 to 3 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (288 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1634 Bush St, San Francisco, CA 94109, United States

  • Pros:

    High-quality sushi, knowledgeable staff, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Pricey, small portions, reservations can be hard to get
  • Popular Menu:

    Omakase, Dragon Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll
  • Price Range:

    $50-$100 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

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27. Kazan

Authentic Uzbek cuisine in the heart of San Francisco

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 2:15 PM

  • Rating: 4.5/5 (412 Review by google)
  • Address:

    2809 24th St, San Francisco, CA 94110, United States

  • Pros:

    Wide variety of Uzbek dishes, Cozy atmosphere, Friendly service
  • Cons:

    Cash only, Limited seating, Inconsistent food quality
  • Popular Menu:

    Plov, Lagman, Shashlik
  • Price Range:

    $15-$30
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Downtown Spots
  • Dinner

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28. Toyama Japanese Restaurant

Family-owned and operated since 1976

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 3 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (264 Review by google)
  • Address:

    3727 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Japanese cuisine, friendly service, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, cash-only policy, no reservations accepted
  • Popular Menu:

    Sushi, Tempura, Ramen
  • Price Range:

    $
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Mid-Range
  • Hidden Gems

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29. Kui Shin Bo

Authentic Japanese ramen and small plates

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 9 PM

  • Rating: 4.4/5 (406 Review by google)
  • Address:

    1424 Lombard St, San Francisco, CA 94123, United States

  • Pros:

    Centrally located, offers delivery, good for groups
  • Cons:

    Limited parking, can be noisy, hit-or-miss service
  • Popular Menu:

    Tonkotsu Ramen, Karaage, Gyoza
  • Price Range:

    $10-$20
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Lunch
  • Downtown Spots

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30. Rock Japanese Cuisine

Offers an intimate and traditional Japanese dining experience

  • Rating: 4.1/5 (313 Review by google)
  • Address:

    614 Pine St, San Francisco, CA 94108, United States

  • Pros:

    Authentic Japanese cuisine, centrally located in downtown San Francisco, attentive and knowledgeable staff
  • Cons:

    Higher price point, may be crowded during peak hours, limited parking options
  • Popular Menu:

    Sushi rolls, ramen, and sake selection
  • Price Range:

    $30-$60 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Budget-Friendly Eats

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31. Kabuto Restaurant

Authentic Japanese sushi experience, highly rated by food critics

  • Time:

    11:30 AM to 2 PM

  • Rating: 4.6/5 (255 Review by google)
  • Address:

    5121 Geary Blvd, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

  • Pros:

    Excellent sushi, friendly service, cozy atmosphere
  • Cons:

    Limited seating, can get crowded, expensive for some
  • Popular Menu:

    Omakase (chef's choice) sushi, dragon roll, spicy tuna roll
  • Price Range:

    $50-$100 per person
Phone Directions Website

TOPICS

  • Asian Cuisine
  • Vegetarian Options
  • Mid-Range

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