Beyond the obligatory sourdough and cable cars, exceptional sushi ranks among San Francisco’s most vital indulgences. So we’ve curated this definitive list of omakase counters and neighborhood gems where you can secure your fix, with reservations and takeout details included.
Ginza Sushi & Sake
$$ | (415) 742-0552 | WEBSITE
Ginza Sushi & Sake holds a special place in our heart. We regularly hit up this excellent sushi bar for our dinner, a bottle of something nice from their sake selection, or several pieces of their creative maki. Now, you can get their mystery box delivered every Friday. Plus, they’re holding regular sushi-making classes.
Lion West Portal
$$ | (415) 742-4872 | WEBSITE
Lion West Portal is a consistently delicious sushi bar that not only serves extremely fresh seafood with perfect nigiri and specialty rolls, they’re also offering a vast vegan menu—and the best part is that most dishes hover around the $15 mark. The two-floor space provides plenty of seating in a clean, modern atmosphere with warm lighting, while the service remains thorough and efficient. It’s a great overall experience and has quickly become a new go-to spot.
Ryoko’s Japanese Restaurant & Bar
$$ | (415) 775-1028 | WEBSITE
There are several advantages to dining at Ryoko’s. First up, you get to experience one of the liveliest sushi bars in downtown San Francisco. Next, you get a great selection of Japanese cuisine, ranging in price from a single Tiger Roll for $12 through to a full omakase experience for $75. Finally, you can enjoy a wide range of unique offerings, from fried cheese through to raw squid with wasabi, and traditional Natto rolls.
Sushi Hashiri
$$$$ | (415) 908-1919 | WEBSITE
Sushi Hashiri is a stunning little omakase counter in San Francisco. You can experience everything from goldeneye snapper nigiri with perfect marbling to Hokkaido uni that melts on the tongue. And yes, you can also watch Chef Toshiaki Ono’s precise knife work while projections dance on the ceiling above.
Yoma Cafe – Japanese Bento and Drinks
$ | (415) 742-4360 | WEBSITE
Yoma Cafe is bringing its celebrated bento boxes and Japanese specialties right to your neighborhood. You can choose from their standout menu items like the chicken katsu bento or spicy tuna roll to enjoy on-site, or opt for a combo deal with a drink, sandwich, and snack at a great value. Plus, with every bento ordered they’re including a complimentary order of their popular fried gyoza.
AKIKOS
$$$$ | (415) 397-3218 | WEBSITE
As the sushi masters behind San Francisco’s finest omakase experiences, AKIKOS know their fish. That’s why it’s totally okay by us that they’re serving exceptional courses right in the heart of the city, with their 14-piece omakase menu for those seeking the full journey, and à la carte options for a more casual visit.
There are multiple approaches, from the accessible (starting around $120 per person) all the way up to the premium (around $250) which they promise contains a curated selection of fresh, creative, and elegant nigiri. Chef Hayashi was able to have a nice conversation with guests at the perfect counter edge, making it ideal for group celebrations. Order here.
Omakase
$$$$ | (415) 865-0633 | WEBSITE
This intimate sushi bar in San Francisco offers an exceptional dining experience with its 19-course tasting menu featuring fresh, high-quality fish often sourced directly from Japan. In true omakase fashion, the knowledgeable chefs engage guests with stories and expertise while preparing standouts like Ankimo, Chu-toro, and Hokkaido Uni.
The dimly lit, cozy atmosphere with counter seating for about ten encourages interactive conversations, while the impressive sake and wine selection enhances the overall experience. While some dishes may not be super impressive, the warm hospitality and carefully prepared food make Omakase a highly recommended destination for special occasions and memorable nights.
Live Sushi Bar
$$ | (415) 861-8610 | WEBSITE
This San Francisco sushi bar and restaurant have crafted their own Omakase tasting box with various unique combinations. The concept is ‘want the power to experience authentic Japanese cuisine wherever you are?’. Our response is an enthusiastic, ‘absolutely’. Curated by skilled chefs, they’ll serve their specialties in your booth, at the counter, or during a special celebration. Visit the spot here.
Hikari Bullet Train Sushi & Bar
$$ | (415) 872-9116 | WEBSITE
Japantown’s #1 bullet train sushi spot is serving up all over San Francisco. Visit hikarisf.com or tap this link to get sushi, gyoza, katsu – the works – straight to your table via mini express train or robot delivery.
Kuma on Valencia
$$$ | (415) 520-8621 | WEBSITE
You can experience all sorts at Kuma on Valencia’s intimate space. There’s a chef’s choice nigiri omakase around $85, ‘the restaurant’s very first standout dish’ with the Zeitgeist roll, and a very impressive sake menu to complement your meal throughout. The head master’s skill is legendary—every piece is a masterclass in tradition and flavor.
Dash Japanese Tapas & Sushi
$$ | (415) 655-9197 | WEBSITE
The very friendly family team behind Dash’s spectacular and seriously delicious sushi menu are serving Mondays. For orders of the ‘Top Secret’ crispy rice or more said service is also quick. There are around a dozen Japanese fish options to choose from, a fully stocked vegetarian selection, and even the odd dish like the unagi fried rice for around the $20 mark.
Handroll Project
$$$ | WEBSITE
Fun fact: Handroll Project is one of our favourite sushi spots in San Francisco. Here’s another: they’ve been serving incredible handrolls since opening in May 2022. There’s a fantastic assortment, and a handy selection of vegetarian options where four are vegan by default.
