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

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43 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Nakama Sushi - San Francisco restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(350)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 13 times today
Nakama Sushi in San Francisco's Civic Center offers an authentic Japanese dining experience that stands out in the city’s bustling culinary scene. Famed for its affordable omakase-style menu, Nakama Sushi presents a rich array of the freshest fish, paired beautifully with an excellent selection of beer, wine, and sake. Reviewers rave about the quality and creativity of the dishes; one delighted customer exclaimed, “The nigiri and sashimi taste super fresh and delicious… the best sushi in SF!” Another patron highlighted the outstanding service, noting, “Benjamin was a great host… made our time there fun with his friendly personality.” Nakama Sushi's commitment to combining high-quality cuisine with genuine hospitality makes every meal memorable, ensuring diners leave planning their next visit.
A photo of Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley restaurant
4.5
Awesome(295)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Western Addition
Booked 44 times today
Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley in San Francisco's Western Addition neighborhood is a beacon of culinary excellence in the world of sushi. Patrons rave about the "freshest fish" and "incredible" Flaming Seabass, noting the food's "high-quality" and "beautiful presentation." The restaurant offers a delightful array of both traditional and modern sushi, making it a gem for both sushi purists and adventurous eaters. The atmosphere is described as "warm and friendly," perfect for a memorable dining experience. Whether it's the "melt-in-your-mouth toro" or the unique Hamachi Truffle Sashimi, Elephant Sushi consistently delivers an authentic and exceptional sushi experience, making it a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.
A photo of Xebec-sf restaurant
4.5
Awesome(12)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Western Addition
Booked 7 times today
Are you ready to embark on a mouth-watering journey down the Mediterranean coast, infused with the tantalizing flavors and techniques of Japan? Join us now to experience this meeting of cultures that will leave your taste buds craving for more!
A photo of Jang restaurant
4.4
Awesome(36)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 5 times today
Jang, located in the vibrant Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness area of San Francisco, offers an exceptional Japanese dining experience that stands out for its masterful blend of traditional and innovative culinary approaches. Patrons rave about the authenticity and creativity of the dishes, particularly highlighting the "sashimi course's seared sea bream transitioning into a bite of fluke, then soy cured salmon, and hamachi" as a remarkable example of the restaurant's commitment to quality and flavor. The curated 12-course meal is consistently praised, with comments such as "everything was delicious" and "the scallop...all 12 courses were delicious." Jang not only promises an unforgettable meal but delivers a symphony of tastes that are both authentically Japanese and uniquely imaginative.
A photo of Yakiniku Shodai restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(66)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 5 times today
Nestled in the vibrant heart of San Francisco's Civic Center/Hayes Valley/Van Ness area, Yakiniku Shodai offers an unparalleled yakiniku dining experience that truly stands out in the realm of barbecue cuisine. This restaurant prides itself on serving high-quality Japanese Wagyu, grilled to perfection by skilled chefs who bring over 20 years of expertise to each dish. Guests rave about the “extraordinary taste of meat” and the “world-class wagyu,” highlighting the meticulous attention to detail and passion evident in every bite. With accolades noting it as a “hidden gem,” Yakiniku Shodai is celebrated for its exceptional service, where the knowledgeable staff and personal chefs like Andy and Chris make every meal an intimate and enlightening culinary journey. Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, Yakiniku Shodai guarantees an authentic, high-end barbecue experience that is both memorable and unmatched.
A photo of Niku Steakhouse restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(798)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 48 times today
Niku Steakhouse in San Francisco’s SOMA district is a haven for aficionados of authentic Japanese cuisine, particularly its revered A5 wagyu beef. This meat-focused restaurant, part of the esteemed Omakase Restaurant Group, showcases an in-house dry aging program and a spectacular wood-fired grill, where the culinary magic happens. Reviewers rave about the "high quality wagyu" and the "Wagyu steak tasting plate" that offers a sublime, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Executive Chef Dustin Falcon masterfully blends Northern Californian influences with traditional Japanese techniques, creating dishes that are both innovative and steeped in authenticity. Guests particularly commend the "exceptional care and attention to detail" in every dish. Whether it’s a special occasion or a desire to indulge in top-tier Japanese cuisine, Niku Steakhouse promises an unforgettable dining experience with its perfect marriage of American and Japanese sensibilities.
A photo of Roka Akor - San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2252)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 56 times today
Roka Akor is a premier steakhouse serving the finest steak, seafood, and sushi. Renowned for our exquisite Japanese Wagyu and Certified Kobe Beef, we are part of an elite group of fewer than 40 restaurants in the U.S. — and 1 of only a few in San Francisco — licensed to serve this coveted delicacy. All of our meats and vegetables are expertly grilled to perfection over an Open Flame Charcoal Robata Grill. Elevate your dining experience with our award-winning wine list, premium sake, craft cocktails, and an extensive selection of fine whiskey.
A photo of Benihana - San Francisco, CA restaurant
4.2
Awesome(3131)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Japantown
Booked 55 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 Chotto Matte San Francisco restaurant
4.4
Awesome(61)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 16 times today
Chotto Matte in Downtown San Francisco near Union Square is a vibrant gem that has swiftly captured the hearts of diners with its exquisite Nikkei cuisine—a tantalizing fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. Guests rave about the "truly amazing" dishes such as the duck wagyu butter and the crispy spicy tuna, praising not only the taste but also the presentation. The ambiance, described as "electric" and "vibrant," perfectly complements the top-notch service provided by the friendly and attentive staff. Reviewers consistently highlight the unique dining experience, with comments like "the best Wagyu ribeye" and "incredible manager, Kevin," confirming that Chotto Matte is not just a meal, but a culinary event. Whether it's for a special birthday celebration or a luxurious night out, Chotto Matte delivers an unforgettable experience that makes it a must-visit spot in San Francisco.
A photo of Hinata Sushi restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(195)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 4 times today
Hinata Sushi in San Francisco's vibrant Van Ness district offers an exceptional Japanese dining experience that is both innovative and authentic. Known for its Omakase, which changes daily based on the freshest ingredients from Toyosu Market in Japan, Hinata promises an unforgettable journey through Japanese cuisine. Guests rave about the "impeccable food and service," with many noting that the sushi is "comparable to what you'd find in Japan." Standout dishes include the "fatty tuna nigiri" and the "crispy torched eel nigiri," which showcase the restaurant's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The attentive service and elegant ambiance further enhance the dining experience, making Hinata a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly authentic Omakase in San Francisco.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Michaelvip
    Washington, D.C. Area •26 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    This is one of our main go to places on nights that we attend the San Francisco Symphony. The food is always great. Every time we have been there Benjamin was our waiter. He typically suggests a few things we might want to consider for that night's dinner, and his recommendations are always excellent. They were again last night. We had the grilled fish cheeks (Kama-Yaki) and it was outstanding!
    More info
    Nakama Sushi - San FranciscoPrice: Moderate• Sushi• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    4.9
  • Tricia
    Greater Boston •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    One of the best meals I've ever had, especially for the price. The wine pairing was the best I've ever experienced, even when compared to Michelin Starred restaurants. A happy accident finding this place. The service was extraordinary, friendly and informative without being intrusive.
    More info
    JangPrice: Expensive• Contemporary Korean• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    4.4
  • Alexandra
    Anchorage / Alaska •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Loved this place. Great food, interesting presentations, positive service. I just wanted to have a better sparkling than the only one in the list)))
    More info
    Elephant Sushi Hayes ValleyPrice: Expensive• Sushi• Western Addition
    4.5
  • Carl
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Have you ever dreamed about having a meal where everything was perfect? Have you ever thought, I would love to taste Waygu beef and have it melt in my mouth? Do you have someone special in your life who you want to have a once in a lifetime dining experience? You will have all these things happen, and more, when you choose Yakiniku Shodai. I can say without hesitation, this was one of the best, if not the best dinners I’ve ever experienced. Yes, there will be sticker shock, but this isn’t Sizzler. Go ahead and live life. You will never ever regret you did this for yourself and the person(s) you love. Thank you Shodai, for the meal, experience, evening of a lifetime.
    More info
    Yakiniku ShodaiPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese Speciality• Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
    4.8
  • Vasco
    San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Nov 22, 2024
    I only put moderate noise because our party was loud, and we were in a cozy nook. Otherwise, the noise level throughout was bustling but not over the top (how I like my Thursday nights out). All I can say about the food and drinks are, be prepared for the unexpected (in a great way). Every drink I had, and dish, had a twist to it, which is something I was looking forward to. The staff was super friendly and ready to help/answer questions, and I can't wait to try everything else I didn't get to taste on the menu. This is a very unique spot I'd like to try regularly!
    More info
    Xebec-sfPrice: Expensive• Mediterranean• Western Addition
    4.5

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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