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Best Japanese Speciality Restaurants in Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio

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7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Nisei restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(78)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese speciality • Russian Hill
Booked 3 times today
Nestled in the charming Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, Nisei exemplifies the pinnacle of Contemporary Asian cuisine, merging Japanese flavor intricacies and Northern California's freshest ingredients. Chef David Yoshimura, a Michelin-starred talent, crafts a menu that is both a personal and cultural narrative, deeply rooted in his Japanese American heritage. Reviews rave about the "exceptional culinary skill" and "artfully layered flavors" that make each dish a masterpiece. Guests consistently commend the "world class service" and the intimate interactions with Chef Yoshimura, who often explains his dishes personally, adding a unique touch to the dining experience. The thoughtful combination of ambiance, meticulous service, and innovative cuisine at Nisei makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking an exceptional Contemporary Asian dining experience.
A photo of Niku Steakhouse restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(806)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese speciality • SOMA
Booked 20 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 Ozumo - San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3402)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese speciality • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 14 times today
At Ozumo in San Francisco's vibrant Financial District / Embarcadero area, sushi lovers find an exceptional haven for authentic Japanese cuisine. Established in 2001, Ozumo has been setting the standard with its fusion of sushi and robata cooking. Under the expert guidance of Chef Yukinori Yamamoto, Ozumo offers an unforgettable dining experience. Reviewers rave about the sushi's unmatched quality, with one noting it as "the best sushi we have ever tasted!" Another highlights the "fatty tuna nigiri" for its "remarkable freshness and deliciousness." Ozumo's commitment to quality is further emphasized by its curated selection of top-tier sake, ensuring each bite is complemented perfectly. For those seeking the pinnacle of sushi excellence, Ozumo is a must-visit destination in San Francisco.
A photo of Yakiniku Shodai restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(66)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese speciality • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 4 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 Bar Iris restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(2)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese speciality • Russian Hill
Bar Iris in Russian Hill, San Francisco, is not just a cocktail bar; it's a celebration of Japanese craft and culture in every sip. With an extensive selection of Japanese alcohols like whisky, sake, umeshu, and shochu, this high-end bar offers an authentic and unique experience that transports guests straight to Japan. The cocktails, inspired by Japanese ingredients, are a hit among patrons, with one guest raving, "The drinks were phenomenal. 10/10." The bar's close connection to the Michelin-starred Japanese restaurant Nisei ensures that even the Izakaya-inspired snacks are of the highest quality. Whether it's the ambiance, the expertly crafted cocktails, or the warm hospitality, Bar Iris is a gem in San Francisco's culinary scene, promising an enchanting evening that's both intimate and innovative.
A photo of Nakama Sushi - San Francisco restaurant
4.9
Exceptional(357)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese speciality • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 15 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 Noka Ramen restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(158)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese speciality • Oakland
Booked 9 times today
Noka Ramen in Oakland is a treasure trove of authentic Japanese Ramen that captures both the palate and the heart. Specializing in “Hakata” Tonkotsu style, the restaurant offers a rich and creamy pork broth paired with homemade artisan noodles that are smooth, firm, and bouncy – a true testament to their dedication to quality and authenticity. Customers rave about the "amazingly good ramen" and the "super high quality soup," which together provide a golden dining experience. The ambiance is equally praised, creating a playful and inviting atmosphere. Whether it's the spicy miso or the black garlic tonkatsu, every bowl is a delightful adventure. As one enthusiast puts it, Noka Ramen is "definitely one of the best ramen spots in Oakland," where the food is not only delicious but also served with exceptional warmth and speed.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • ScottVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •33 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Lovely meal! Team were very attentive and kind. All the dishes were explained very well, clear the team know their stuff and really care. Chef came out many times to talk, was a great touch! One of the best fine dining experiences we have had in the US.
    More info
    NiseiPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Russian Hill
    4.8
  • Charles
    New York City •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We went for my wife’s birthday and had a very nice time. The food was exceptional and the wait staff was an orchestrated ballet of impeccable service. Everything from the appetizers, the main courses and the desserts were all rock solid. I expected at least one of these categories to be a little weak (as they are with most restaurants) and I was continually pleasantly surprised by the dynamic flavors and incredibly well-prepared, and well-seasoned food overall. My only critique would be that the broccolini was undercooked for my taste and a little too heavy on the garlic, and the porterhouse rolls were slightly disappointing — they were made of some kind of wheat dough with an added aromatic that wasn’t needed in my opinion. I was hoping for the classic buttery white bread porterhouse rolls! But if you are looking for exotic flavors, and open to things being a little different than expected, there’s no shortage of that at Niku. The ambience was modern, tasteful and chic. The music was a little loud, but that helped to provide a very immersive experience. After a few drinks you don’t notice as much lol. They have three different seating options: bar, tables, and chefs counter. This was not as clearly explained as it could’ve been on their website or on OpenTable. The pictures I found online didn’t give a clear enough idea of what the different seating options would look like, so that made planning a special occasion a little difficult. Otherwise, I couldn’t recommend this place enough.
    More info
    Niku SteakhousePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• SOMA
    4.8
  • NancyVIP
    San Francisco Bay Area •18 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 5 days ago
    Best sashimi in the Bay Area, and best black cod. We just can’t go anywhere else for sushi in San Francisco and the East Bay, without being disappointed.
    More info
    Ozumo - San FranciscoPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Financial District / Embarcadero
    4.7
  • Carl
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 8 Dec 2024
    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
  • hihowareyou
    San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on 6 May 2024
    Quality, in-demand collaboration, warm hospitality, thoughtful cocktails
    More info
    Bar IrisPrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• Russian Hill
    4.9

Discover best Japanese Speciality restaurants in Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio

Explore the best of Japanese cuisine in the vibrant Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio area of San Francisco. Renowned for its specialty in Japanese dishes, this locale provides an array of dining options that cater to aficionados of traditional and modern Japanese culinary arts. From the carefully curated omakase experiences to the expertly crafted sushi rolls, each restaurant showcases a deep respect for Japanese culinary traditions while incorporating local Californian influences. Diners can expect high-quality ingredients, artistic presentation, and impeccable service that enhances the overall dining experience. The dining scene in this part of San Francisco is distinguished by its focus on authenticity and culinary excellence, making it a must-visit destination for any Japanese cuisine enthusiast. Whether you're seeking a sophisticated sushi bar or a cozy spot for a comforting bowl of ramen, the Marina / Cow Hollow / Presidio area promises a memorable gastronomic journey.

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