Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. San Francisco Bay Area

Best Japanese Restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

Price
Regions
Neighbourhoods
Top Rated
Dining Options
Seating Options
Award-winning
Accessibility

44 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Nakama Sushi - San Francisco restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(363)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 26 times today
Nakama Sushi in San Francisco is a shining gem of Japanese Speciality cuisine, providing an authentic and delightful dining experience. The omakase style menu showcases the finest, freshest fish, earning rave reviews as "the best sushi in SF." Diners are consistently impressed by the exquisite sushi and friendly, attentive service, especially from the renowned server, Benjamin, who goes above and beyond to make each visit memorable. The restaurant strikes a perfect balance of quality and affordability in a cozy setting that reminds guests of "sitting at the counter at our favorite place in Tokyo." Discover Nakama for a superb Japanese dining adventure!
A photo of Xebec-sf restaurant
4.3
Awesome(18)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Western Addition
Booked 13 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 Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley restaurant
4.5
Awesome(307)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Western Addition
Booked 32 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 Jang restaurant
4.4
Awesome(39)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 10 times today
Jang, located in the vibrant Civic Center area of San Francisco, is a gem of Korean cuisine that masterfully blends tradition with innovation. This newly opened restaurant has quickly become a favorite among diners, with many raving about its "fantastic new Korean tasting menu" and "phenomenal" food. At Jang, the focus is on the essence of Korean flavors, particularly through the use of rich, umami-packed fermented sauces. Diners appreciate the "carefully put together" courses that highlight the finest seasonal produce and premium proteins. With a "friendly, knowledgeable" staff and a wine pairing program that rivals Michelin-starred establishments, Jang offers an unforgettable dining experience that truly honors Korean culinary heritage.
A photo of Yakiniku Shodai restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(68)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 2 times today
Yakiniku Shodai in San Francisco is a haven for barbecue enthusiasts, offering an authentic Japanese yakiniku experience that rivals dining in Japan. Their selection of premium Japanese Wagyu is masterfully grilled, providing a melt-in-your-mouth sensation that delights every meat lover. Diners rave about the "excellent food" and "amazing service," highlighting the chefs' skillful preparation and the restaurant's welcoming ambiance. Chef Andy and his team create an unforgettable dining adventure, where each meal is tailored to perfection on your personal grill. This exceptional attention to quality and detail makes Yakiniku Shodai a must-visit for anyone seeking top-tier barbecue.
A photo of Niku Steakhouse restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(819)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 31 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 Roka Akor - San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2268)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 51 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 Benihana - San Francisco, CA restaurant
4.0
Excellent(3180)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Japantown
Booked 76 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 Ozumo - San Francisco restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(3410)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 50 times today
Ozumo, nestled in San Francisco's vibrant Financial District, offers an exquisite Japanese culinary journey that effortlessly marries tradition with modern flair. As one of the city’s premier destinations for Japanese Speciality cuisine, Ozumo delights with its “amazing food and impeccable service.” Guests rave about the sushi, describing it as “some of the best we’ve ever had,” while the robata-cooked delicacies are hailed as “incredibly fresh and flavorful.” The refined ambiance, crafted by the renowned Super Potato design firm, enhances the dining experience. With an impressive selection of chilled sake from Japan’s esteemed brewers, Ozumo is a must-visit for authentic Japanese flavors.
A photo of Chotto Matte San Francisco restaurant
4.3
Awesome(69)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 15 times today
Chotto Matte San Francisco is a vibrant gem nestled in the heart of Downtown San Francisco, renowned for its exquisite Nikkei Cuisine—a harmonious blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavors. The restaurant's chic, contemporary design, paired with tropical foliage and a theatrical robata grill, crafts an unforgettable dining experience. Guests rave about the "amazing ambience" and "exceptional food," highlighting Chotto Matte as a standout in the city's culinary scene. The expertly crafted cocktails, like the "spicy Japanese margarita," further elevate the experience, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic and innovative Japanese cuisine in a lively atmosphere.

How is content generated

See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you

Discover best Japanese restaurants in Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness

Discover the allure of Japanese cuisine in the vibrant Civic Center/Hayes Valley/Van Ness neighborhood of San Francisco, a hub known for its eclectic dining scene. Here, Japanese restaurants excel in offering a mesmerizing array of sushi and traditional dishes, prepared with the freshest ingredients sourced directly from Japan. Each establishment provides a unique dining experience, ranging from the intimate Omakase tastings where chefs showcase their culinary artistry, to a more casual yet equally authentic sushi bar atmosphere. Patrons frequently praise the high-quality fish, inventive sushi rolls, and the traditional tapas-style dishes that provide a taste of Japan’s diverse culinary landscape. The meticulous attention to detail and commitment to authenticity at these venues ensure a memorable gastronomic journey. Whether you are a sushi aficionado or new to Japanese cuisine, the restaurants in this San Francisco neighborhood promise an exceptional dining experience highlighted by superb service and an inviting ambiance. This area is celebrated not only for its culinary delights but also for being a welcoming and vibrant part of the city, perfect for both special occasions and casual dining.

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2024 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
OpenTable Logo