Best Japanese Restaurants in Russian Hill

46 restaurants available nearby

1. Nisei

4.8

Exceptional(70)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Russian Hill

Booked 4 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.

2. Bar Iris

4.9

Exceptional(2)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • 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 Roka Akor - San Francisco restaurant

3. Roka Akor - San Francisco

4.7

Exceptional(2244)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 39 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.

4. Niku Steakhouse

4.8

Exceptional(783)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • SOMA

Booked 46 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 Pabu Izakaya San Francisco restaurant

5. Pabu Izakaya San Francisco

4.4

Awesome(1378)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 17 times today

Nestled in the bustling Financial District of San Francisco, Pabu Izakaya is a gem for aficionados of authentic Izakaya cuisine. Founded by the acclaimed Chefs Michael Mina and the late Ken Tominaga, and now helmed by Chef Keita Tominaga, Pabu delights diners with a modern twist on traditional Izakaya-style dining. The restaurant is renowned for its "world-class sashimi, sushi, and grilled meats from the robata," with seafood flown in daily from Japan's prestigious Toyosu Market and a "signature selection of A5 Japanese Wagyu" that is simply unmatched. Customers rave about their experiences, describing the sushi and sashimi as "some of the best we’ve ever had in SF" and praising the "phenomenal" pear bourbon drink. With its vibrant ambiance and impeccable service, Pabu Izakaya San Francisco offers a dining experience that is both "impressive" and "consistently enjoyable," making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.

A photo of Chotto Matte San Francisco restaurant

6. Chotto Matte San Francisco

4.5

Awesome(57)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Downtown / Union Square

Booked 9 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 Ozumo - San Francisco restaurant

7. Ozumo - San Francisco

4.6

Exceptional(3397)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero

Booked 26 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.

8. Sato Omakase

4.7

Exceptional(225)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Tenderloin

Booked 7 times today

Sato Omakase in San Francisco's Tenderloin district is a beacon of Japanese culinary excellence, offering an authentic omakase experience that has become a gold standard in the area. With an intimate setting that allows diners to interact directly with the chefs, every dish served is a testament to the quality and craftsmanship of traditional Japanese cuisine. From the luxurious ingredients like Hokkaido uni and Ossetra caviar to the expertly paired drinks, each element is carefully curated to ensure a memorable dining experience. Praised for its "outstanding" food and "phenomenal" service, Sato Omakase is highly recommended by diners, with reviews highlighting the "melt-in-your-mouth" nigiri and "amazing sushi." Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or seeking to indulge in a top-tier culinary journey, Sato Omakase promises an unmatched omakase that's worth every penny.

9. AKIKOS

4.8

Exceptional(1607)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • SOMA

Booked 10 times today

Experience the pinnacle of sushi craftsmanship at Akikos in SOMA, San Francisco, where the traditional omakase experience is transformed with a modern flair. Sourced directly from Tokyo's prestigious Toyosu Fish Market, the fish at Akikos is of unmatched freshness and quality. Diners rave about the "absolutely decadent" signature dishes like the shokupan with toro and golden Kaluga caviar, and the aged, soy-cured bluefin tuna nigiri. At Akikos, every dish is a testament to the meticulous care and creativity that defines their sushi, making each bite a luxurious indulgence. Patrons consistently laud their experiences, noting that it is "by far the best set menu Japanese restaurant I have ever been to in the U.S." and celebrating the "phenomenal" omakase that makes Akikos a must-visit destination for sushi connoisseurs.

A photo of Benihana - San Francisco, CA restaurant

10. Benihana - San Francisco, CA

4.2

Awesome(3116)

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.

‘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.

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you

A
Autumn
Columbus •1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
Amazing! Sitting at the chef’s table is a must! All the workers were friendly, amazing, and very personable! Food was spectacular! A definite SF must!
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Niku SteakhousePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• SOMA
•
4.8
AT
AlexTvip
San Francisco Bay Area •9 reviews
4.0
Dined 4 days ago
Beautiful restaurant. Mixed experience on the food quality.
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Pabu Izakaya San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Financial District / Embarcadero
•
4.4
S
Sundar
San Francisco Bay Area •3 reviews
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
Food was excellent. Service was extremely well coordinated and paced even on a very busy night. Eric took great care of us! Highly recommend if you want both high quality steak and sushi
More info
Roka Akor - San FranciscoPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Financial District / Embarcadero
•
4.7
T
Tiffany
San Francisco Bay Area •1 review
5.0
Dined on Nov 10, 2024
From the moment you walk through the doors, you're met with a beautiful modern room that is perfectly decorated with Japanese flower arrangements. The persimmons hanging down from one of the tables is stunning. Every server seemed to be doing a perfectly choreographed dance, as they moved across each table delivering beverages, different courses, or simply providing new utensils. Definitely an experience that I won't forget. The little bites were small in size but big in flavor. They were all perfectly plated with such attention to detail. My favorite dish, one that the chef wasn't sure about, was the omurice. I joked that I was having a "Ratatouille" moment with that first bite. Being taken back to childhood and just eating a bowl of rice for lunch. Everyone was so knowledgeable and so very friendly. Natalie, our main server was so sweet and such a blast to be around. She even knew the brand of the drinkware!
More info
NiseiPrice: Very Expensive• Japanese• Russian Hill
•
4.8
H
hihowareyou
San Francisco Bay Area •6 reviews
5.0
Dined on May 6, 2024
Quality, in-demand collaboration, warm hospitality, thoughtful cocktails
More info
Bar IrisPrice: Expensive• Cocktail Bar• Russian Hill
•
4.9

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Best Japanese Restaurants in Russian Hill

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46 restaurants available nearby

1. Nisei

2. Bar Iris

3. Roka Akor - San Francisco

4. Niku Steakhouse

5. Pabu Izakaya San Francisco

6. Chotto Matte San Francisco

7. Ozumo - San Francisco

8. Sato Omakase

9. AKIKOS

10. Benihana - San Francisco, CA

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