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Best Japanese Restaurants in Mission Bay / South Beach

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47 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Niku Steakhouse restaurant
1. Niku Steakhouse
4.8
Exceptional(783)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 37 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 Live Sushi Bar restaurant
2. Live Sushi Bar
4.7
Exceptional(598)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Potrero Hill / Dogpatch
Booked 13 times today
At Live Sushi Bar in the heart of Potrero Hill, San Francisco, the promise of exceptional sushi cuisine is not just met but surpassed. Renowned for its fresh, inventive offerings, this neighborhood sushi bar shines with an array of creative specialties like live scallop, uni, and Spanish mackerel. Diners consistently praise the "delicious and fresh" sushi, highlighting the quality and variety, with remarks like "This is probably the 8th time at my favorite sushi restaurant in SF" and "Everything was super unique." The Omakase tasting box is a particular favorite, celebrated for its diverse and exquisite selection. Live Sushi Bar is a true gem, offering an authentic sushi experience that keeps patrons returning for more.
A photo of Roka Akor - San Francisco restaurant
3. Roka Akor - San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(2245)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 42 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 Chotto Matte San Francisco restaurant
4. Chotto Matte San Francisco
4.4
Awesome(58)
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 Okane restaurant
5. Okane
4.5
Awesome(431)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 8 times today
Okane specializes in izakaya and sushi, providing the Bay Area with an engaging new dining and drinking option that affords guests one of the City’s most authentic Japanese izakaya experiences with an emphasis on traditional dishes.
A photo of Ozumo - San Francisco restaurant
6. Ozumo - San Francisco
4.6
Exceptional(3398)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 28 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 Pabu Izakaya San Francisco restaurant
7. Pabu Izakaya San Francisco
4.4
Awesome(1378)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 7 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 AKIKOS restaurant
8. AKIKOS
4.7
Exceptional(1607)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 7 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 Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Francisco, CA | South of Market (SoMa) restaurant
9. Gyu-Kaku Japanese BBQ - San Francisco, CA | South of Market (SoMa)
4.7
Exceptional(276)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 25 times today
Gyu-Kaku in San Francisco, nestled in the vibrant SOMA neighborhood, is a treasure trove of authentic Japanese BBQ delights. Celebrated as the world’s #1 Japanese BBQ brand since its inception in Tokyo in 1996, the restaurant offers a unique dining experience where guests become chefs at their own table-top smokeless grills. Patrons rave about the "exceptionally delightful" dishes like the Harami Skirt Steak and Prime Kalbi Short Rib. One enthusiast mentioned, "Every bite was a symphony of flavor," highlighting the top-notch, well-seasoned meats. The atmosphere is perfect for a range of occasions, from casual dinners to celebratory gatherings, making every visit a magical culinary adventure. With its extensive menu and dedicated service, Gyu-Kaku stands out as a must-visit spot for Japanese cuisine aficionados in San Francisco.
A photo of Okaeri Japanese Bistro restaurant
10. Okaeri Japanese Bistro
4.7
Exceptional(153)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Mission District
Booked 16 times today
Okaeri Japanese Bistro, nestled in the vibrant Mission District of San Francisco, is a celebrated destination for authentic Japanese cuisine. Patrons rave about the "incredible sushi" and the "phenomenal chef-curated omakase" which highlights the freshest seasonal ingredients. The ambiance, described as a perfect blend of traditional and modern, complements the expertly crafted menu that includes favorites like nigiri, sashimi, and unique fusion dishes. Reviewers consistently praise the attentive service and the tastefully simple decor, making Okaeri a must-visit for those seeking a genuine and exquisite Japanese dining experience. As one diner puts it, it’s "a hidden gem that deserves all the praise," perfect for any occasion from a casual dinner to special celebrations.
‘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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