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Best Japanese Restaurants in Cole Valley

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45 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Niku Steakhouse restaurant
1. Niku Steakhouse
4.8
Exceptional(861)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 42 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 Pacific Catch - Sunset District restaurant
2. Pacific Catch - Sunset District
4.7
Exceptional(1902)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Sunset District
Booked 8 times today
Pacific Catch in the Sunset District is a standout choice for anyone seeking authentic and high-quality Hawaii Regional Cuisine. This WestCoast Fish House is renowned for its commitment to sustainable seafood, bringing the vibrant flavors of the Pacific to life. Diners rave about the "super fresh" Aji Poke salad and the "excellent" coconut shrimp, capturing the essence of Hawaii's culinary traditions. The restaurant's innovative menu, praised for its variety and freshness, consistently impresses with dishes like the Wasabi Poke Bowl and fish tacos. With great service and a thoughtfully designed dining environment, Pacific Catch ensures a delightful and memorable dining experience.
A photo of Okaeri Japanese Bistro restaurant
3. Okaeri Japanese Bistro
4.8
Exceptional(173)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Mission District
Booked 26 times today
Okaeri Japanese Bistro in the Mission District of San Francisco stands out for its exceptional Sushi cuisine. Renowned for its "incredible sushi and authentically Japanese decor," Okaeri delivers a dining experience that is both traditional and innovative. The talented chefs, led by Chef Master Lo, craft exquisite omakase meals that highlight the freshest seasonal ingredients, ensuring each dish is "a delight and unforgettable." Patrons rave about the "delicious and fresh" fish, masterfully prepared to melt in your mouth, while the attentive and friendly staff enhance the welcoming atmosphere. For sushi enthusiasts seeking quality and authenticity, Okaeri is a must-visit destination.
A photo of Benihana - San Francisco, CA restaurant
4. Benihana - San Francisco, CA
3.9
Excellent(3226)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Japantown
Booked 39 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 Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley restaurant
5. Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley
4.6
Exceptional(320)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Western Addition
Booked 29 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 Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar restaurant
6. Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar
4.7
Exceptional(21)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Sunset District
Booked 9 times today
Join us for fresh fish, cooked delights, Japanese beer, and rare sake—all at affordable prices.
A photo of Roka Akor - San Francisco restaurant
7. Roka Akor - San Francisco
4.8
Exceptional(2288)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 41 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 Xebec-sf restaurant
8. Xebec-sf
4.5
Awesome(53)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Western Addition
Booked 9 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 AKIKOS restaurant
9. AKIKOS
4.7
Exceptional(1618)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 18 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.
A photo of Pabu Izakaya San Francisco restaurant
10. Pabu Izakaya San Francisco
4.5
Awesome(1397)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 34 times today
Pabu Izakaya San Francisco offers an unparalleled Izakaya experience, blending tradition with modern flair. Nestled in the heart of the Financial District, this gem is praised for its "world-class sashimi, sushi, and grilled meats" expertly crafted by Chef Keita Tominaga. The restaurant’s dedication to authenticity shines through with seafood flown in daily from Japan’s renowned Toyosu Market, ensuring "melt-in-your-mouth fresh" sushi. Guests rave about the "exceptional service" and the energetic ambiance that enhances every visit. Pabu Izakaya is not just a dining destination but a journey into the heart of Japanese culinary excellence, making it a must-visit in San Francisco.
‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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