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Best Japanese Restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

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44 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Nakama Sushi - San Francisco restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(362)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 31 times today
Nakama Sushi in San Francisco is a shining gem of Japanese Speciality cuisine, providing an authentic and delightful dining experience. The omakase style menu showcases the finest, freshest fish, earning rave reviews as "the best sushi in SF." Diners are consistently impressed by the exquisite sushi and friendly, attentive service, especially from the renowned server, Benjamin, who goes above and beyond to make each visit memorable. The restaurant strikes a perfect balance of quality and affordability in a cozy setting that reminds guests of "sitting at the counter at our favorite place in Tokyo." Discover Nakama for a superb Japanese dining adventure!
A photo of Xebec-sf restaurant
4.4
Awesome(17)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Western Addition
Booked 19 times today
Xebec-sf in the heart of Western Addition, San Francisco, redefines American cuisine by seamlessly blending it with vibrant Mediterranean and Japanese influences. Diners rave about the "exceptional service" and "beautifully presented" dishes, with the Chilean Sea Bass and eggplant parcels frequently topping the list of favorites. The restaurant's creative culinary approach ensures a "memorable dining experience" that leaves guests eager for more. The ambiance is both cozy and lively, making it a perfect spot for an enjoyable meal. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Xebec-sf promises an "inventive and flavorful" twist on traditional American dining that truly stands out.
A photo of Jang restaurant
4.4
Awesome(39)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 12 times today
Jang, located in the vibrant Civic Center area of San Francisco, is a gem of Korean cuisine that masterfully blends tradition with innovation. This newly opened restaurant has quickly become a favorite among diners, with many raving about its "fantastic new Korean tasting menu" and "phenomenal" food. At Jang, the focus is on the essence of Korean flavors, particularly through the use of rich, umami-packed fermented sauces. Diners appreciate the "carefully put together" courses that highlight the finest seasonal produce and premium proteins. With a "friendly, knowledgeable" staff and a wine pairing program that rivals Michelin-starred establishments, Jang offers an unforgettable dining experience that truly honors Korean culinary heritage.
A photo of Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley restaurant
4.5
Awesome(306)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Western Addition
Booked 31 times today
Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley is a gem in the heart of Western Addition, San Francisco, offering an unmatched sushi experience that combines both traditional and modern culinary artistry. Renowned for its "exceptional service and high-quality sushi," this restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Diners rave about the "flaming seabass" and "hamachi truffle sashimi," which are not only flavorful but also beautifully presented. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, making every visit feel like a special occasion. With its dedication to quality and a menu that delights every palate, Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley is a must-visit for sushi enthusiasts.
A photo of Yakiniku Shodai restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(67)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 2 times today
Yakiniku Shodai in San Francisco is a haven for barbecue enthusiasts, offering an authentic Japanese yakiniku experience that rivals dining in Japan. Their selection of premium Japanese Wagyu is masterfully grilled, providing a melt-in-your-mouth sensation that delights every meat lover. Diners rave about the "excellent food" and "amazing service," highlighting the chefs' skillful preparation and the restaurant's welcoming ambiance. Chef Andy and his team create an unforgettable dining adventure, where each meal is tailored to perfection on your personal grill. This exceptional attention to quality and detail makes Yakiniku Shodai a must-visit for anyone seeking top-tier barbecue.
A photo of Niku Steakhouse restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(819)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 35 times today
Niku Steakhouse in San Francisco's vibrant SOMA district is a haven for Japanese Speciality cuisine enthusiasts, renowned for its exceptional quality and authenticity. Offering a "truly memorable" dining experience, the restaurant is celebrated for its exclusive cuts of Japanese A5 wagyu, expertly prepared over a custom binchotan charcoal and wood-fired grill. "The 6oz filets were cooked and seasoned perfectly," one diner raves, highlighting the restaurant's dedication to precision and flavor. Executive Chef Dustin Falcon, with his impressive credentials, ensures that each dish combines American and Japanese culinary sensibilities, making Niku Steakhouse a must-visit for any discerning palate.
A photo of Roka Akor - San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2269)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 69 times today
Roka Akor in San Francisco’s Financial District is a beacon of authentic Japanese cuisine, offering an unparalleled dining experience with its exquisite Wagyu and Certified Kobe Beef. As one of fewer than 40 U.S. restaurants licensed to serve these delicacies, Roka Akor stands out for its commitment to quality and authenticity. Diners rave about the "exceptional omakase experience," where guests are treated to the finest selection of Japanese dishes. The open flame charcoal Robata Grill imparts a unique flavor to expertly grilled meats and vegetables, making each dish a culinary masterpiece. Coupled with a stellar service team, Roka Akor promises a memorable dining adventure.
A photo of Benihana - San Francisco, CA restaurant
4.0
Excellent(3179)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Japantown
Booked 67 times today
Welcome to Benihana, a dining experience unlike any other! Our guests are seated at communal tables in groups, where your personal chef will perform the ancient art of Teppanyaki. Watch as we slice and dice, preparing a meal that will dazzle your eyes as well taste buds, whether you choose mouth-watering steak, tender chicken or succulent seafood. You can also enjoy sushi prepared by a talented sushi chef and indulge in a specialty cocktail.
A photo of Ozumo - San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3410)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 63 times today
Ozumo, nestled in San Francisco's vibrant Financial District, offers an exquisite Japanese culinary journey that effortlessly marries tradition with modern flair. As one of the city’s premier destinations for Japanese Speciality cuisine, Ozumo delights with its “amazing food and impeccable service.” Guests rave about the sushi, describing it as “some of the best we’ve ever had,” while the robata-cooked delicacies are hailed as “incredibly fresh and flavorful.” The refined ambiance, crafted by the renowned Super Potato design firm, enhances the dining experience. With an impressive selection of chilled sake from Japan’s esteemed brewers, Ozumo is a must-visit for authentic Japanese flavors.
A photo of AKIKOS restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1618)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 10 times today
Nestled in the vibrant East Cut neighborhood of San Francisco, AKIKOS offers an exceptional Sushi experience that beautifully marries tradition with innovation. Known for its contemporary take on the traditional Omakase, the restaurant sources its fish directly from Tokyo’s esteemed Toyosu Fish Market, ensuring only the freshest, highest quality ingredients are used. Signature dishes, like the Shokupan topped with toro and Kaluga caviar, and the aged soy-cured bluefin tuna nigiri, stand out for their "creative flair" and exquisite taste. Guests rave about the "phenomenal service" and "unforgettable dining experience," making AKIKOS a must-visit for Sushi enthusiasts.

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Discover best Japanese restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

Discover the allure of Japanese cuisine in the vibrant Civic Center/Hayes Valley/Van Ness neighborhood of San Francisco, a hub known for its eclectic dining scene. Here, Japanese restaurants excel in offering a mesmerizing array of sushi and traditional dishes, prepared with the freshest ingredients sourced directly from Japan. Each establishment provides a unique dining experience, ranging from the intimate Omakase tastings where chefs showcase their culinary artistry, to a more casual yet equally authentic sushi bar atmosphere. Patrons frequently praise the high-quality fish, inventive sushi rolls, and the traditional tapas-style dishes that provide a taste of Japan’s diverse culinary landscape. The meticulous attention to detail and commitment to authenticity at these venues ensure a memorable gastronomic journey. Whether you are a sushi aficionado or new to Japanese cuisine, the restaurants in this San Francisco neighborhood promise an exceptional dining experience highlighted by superb service and an inviting ambiance. This area is celebrated not only for its culinary delights but also for being a welcoming and vibrant part of the city, perfect for both special occasions and casual dining.

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