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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(820)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 40 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 Benihana - San Francisco, CA restaurant
2. Benihana - San Francisco, CA
4.0
Excellent(3180)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Japantown
Booked 78 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 Pacific Catch - Sunset District restaurant
3. Pacific Catch - Sunset District
4.6
Exceptional(1889)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Sunset District
Booked 28 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
4. Okaeri Japanese Bistro
4.8
Exceptional(163)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Mission
Booked 3 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 Xebec-sf restaurant
5. Xebec-sf
4.4
Awesome(19)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Western Addition
Booked 11 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 Roka Akor - San Francisco restaurant
6. Roka Akor - San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(2268)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 43 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 Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley restaurant
7. Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley
4.5
Awesome(307)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Western Addition
Booked 30 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 Chotto Matte San Francisco restaurant
8. Chotto Matte San Francisco
4.3
Awesome(69)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 9 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.
A photo of Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar restaurant
9. Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar
4.7
Exceptional(11)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Sunset District
Booked 7 times today
Join us for fresh fish, cooked delights, Japanese beer, and rare sake—all at affordable prices.
A photo of Nakama Sushi - San Francisco restaurant
10. Nakama Sushi - San Francisco
4.8
Exceptional(363)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Civic Center / Hayes Valley / Van Ness
Booked 19 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!
‘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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