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Best Japanese Restaurants in Tenderloin

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45 restaurants available nearby

A photo of ANZU restaurant
1. ANZU
4.5
Awesome(2626)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 7 times today
Restaurant ANZU, nestled in the Union Square district of Downtown San Francisco, is a beacon of sushi excellence. Renowned for its fusion of contemporary Japanese cuisine with California and Asian flavors, ANZU consistently impresses with its high-quality sushi. Guests rave about the sushi's freshness and exquisite presentation, describing it as the "best Sushi we have ever eaten!" The restaurant's dedication to quality and service shines through, with one diner noting, "Their Omakase has been one of the best experiences I have had in a sushi restaurant in a long time!" Whether it's the meticulous preparation or the vibrant setting, ANZU offers a sushi experience that is both authentic and unforgettable.
A photo of Niku Steakhouse restaurant
2. Niku Steakhouse
4.8
Exceptional(784)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 26 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 Roka Akor - San Francisco restaurant
3. Roka Akor - San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(2246)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 32 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 8 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 Sato Omakase restaurant
5. Sato Omakase
4.7
Exceptional(226)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Tenderloin
Booked 6 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.
A photo of Pabu Izakaya San Francisco restaurant
6. Pabu Izakaya San Francisco
4.4
Awesome(1378)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 1 time 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 Hinata Sushi restaurant
7. Hinata Sushi
4.8
Exceptional(193)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 9 times today
Hinata Sushi in San Francisco's vibrant Van Ness district offers an exceptional Japanese dining experience that is both innovative and authentic. Known for its Omakase, which changes daily based on the freshest ingredients from Toyosu Market in Japan, Hinata promises an unforgettable journey through Japanese cuisine. Guests rave about the "impeccable food and service," with many noting that the sushi is "comparable to what you'd find in Japan." Standout dishes include the "fatty tuna nigiri" and the "crispy torched eel nigiri," which showcase the restaurant's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The attentive service and elegant ambiance further enhance the dining experience, making Hinata a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly authentic Omakase in San Francisco.
A photo of Ozumo - San Francisco restaurant
8. Ozumo - San Francisco
4.6
Exceptional(3398)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 25 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 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 27 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 Sushi Sato restaurant
10. Sushi Sato
4.2
Awesome(171)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Tenderloin
Dive into the heart of San Francisco's Tenderloin district where Sushi Sato stands as a beacon of Japanese cuisine excellence. Celebrated for its authentic and innovative approach, the restaurant offers a mesmerizing array of sushi, sashimi, and more, crafted from top-quality ingredients. Patrons rave about the "impeccable service" and the "interesting menu" which features specialties like the Fatty Tuna Uni Truffle Bowl and Miso Crab Risotto. The ambiance is described as "elegant and simple, very authentic Japanese," ensuring a dining experience that's both intimate and vibrant. Whether you're in for the acclaimed omakase or the crafted cocktails, Sushi Sato delivers an unforgettable culinary journey, making it a must-visit for those seeking genuine Japanese flavors in the city.

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Discover best Japanese restaurants in Tenderloin

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Japanese cuisine right in the heart of San Francisco's Tenderloin district. Our curated selection of restaurants offers a diverse array of authentic Japanese dining experiences, from traditional Omakase to innovative fusion dishes. Each establishment is renowned for its commitment to quality, showcasing expertly crafted menus that feature everything from delicate sushi to robust, flavor-packed entrees. Patrons consistently praise the meticulous attention to detail, both in the preparation of dishes and the attentive service, enhancing the dining experience to match that of Japan's finest eateries. The Tenderloin district itself is a vibrant culinary hub, known for its eclectic mix of dining options that cater to every palate. Whether you're a longtime lover of Japanese cuisine or exploring this exquisite culinary tradition for the first time, these restaurants promise an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

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