Best Japanese Restaurants in Forest Hill / West Portal

42 restaurants available nearby

1. Niku Steakhouse

4.8

Exceptional(806)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • SOMA

Booked 24 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 Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar restaurant

2. Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar

4.8

Exceptional(10)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Sunset District

Booked 6 times today

Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar in San Francisco's Sunset District is quickly establishing itself as a top destination for authentic Sushi cuisine. Patrons consistently rave about the freshness of the fish and the artistry of its sushi dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The best sushi I've had!" The restaurant's dedication to quality is evident, offering "excellent sashimi and nigiri" that are "perfectly balanced and seasoned," making additional condiments unnecessary. The atmosphere enhances the dining experience, combining modern Japanese decor with a cozy vibe, perfect for both family dinners and date nights. Moreover, the extensive sake selection complements the sushi impeccably, creating a harmonious dining experience that guests eagerly recommend.

A photo of Pacific Catch - Sunset District restaurant

3. Pacific Catch - Sunset District

4.7

Exceptional(1885)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Sunset District

Booked 7 times today

Pacific Catch in the Sunset District of San Francisco is a gem for seafood lovers, offering a uniquely vibrant experience that captures the essence of the Pacific. With a commitment to sustainability, this restaurant partners with the Monterey Bay Seafood Aquarium's Seafood Watch and the James Beard Foundation's Smart Catch, ensuring top-quality, responsibly sourced ingredients. Diners rave about the freshness and innovation in dishes like the "amazing" Wasabi Poke Bowl and the "spectacular" seared cod tacos. The newly remodeled space enhances the dining experience, making Pacific Catch a must-visit for authentic and delicious seafood. As one reviewer put it, "Really great seafood! This place is not crazy expensive considering that it's seafood in SF" – a testament to the value and quality Pacific Catch consistently delivers.

A photo of Okaeri Japanese Bistro restaurant

4. Okaeri Japanese Bistro

4.8

Exceptional(159)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Mission

Booked 15 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.

A photo of Chotto Matte San Francisco restaurant

5. Chotto Matte San Francisco

4.3

Awesome(66)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Downtown / Union Square

Booked 5 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 Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley restaurant

6. Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley

4.5

Awesome(297)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Western Addition

Booked 10 times today

Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley in San Francisco's Western Addition neighborhood is a beacon of culinary excellence in the world of sushi. Patrons rave about the "freshest fish" and "incredible" Flaming Seabass, noting the food's "high-quality" and "beautiful presentation." The restaurant offers a delightful array of both traditional and modern sushi, making it a gem for both sushi purists and adventurous eaters. The atmosphere is described as "warm and friendly," perfect for a memorable dining experience. Whether it's the "melt-in-your-mouth toro" or the unique Hamachi Truffle Sashimi, Elephant Sushi consistently delivers an authentic and exceptional sushi experience, making it a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.

A photo of Benihana - San Francisco, CA restaurant

7. Benihana - San Francisco, CA

4.2

Awesome(3145)

Price: Moderate

• Japanese • Japantown

Booked 114 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.

8. ANZU

4.5

Awesome(2632)

Price: Expensive

• Japanese • Downtown / Union Square

Booked 15 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.

9. Sato Omakase

4.7

Exceptional(229)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Tenderloin

Booked 1 time 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.

10. Sushi Hon

4.8

Exceptional(453)

Price: Very Expensive

• Japanese • Mission

Booked 4 times today

Located in the vibrant Mission District of San Francisco, Sushi Hon offers an unparalleled sushi experience that leaves diners raving about its authenticity and excellence. Specializing in an exquisite 19-course Omakase, Sushi Hon sources only the finest global ingredients to create unforgettable culinary masterpieces. Patrons frequently praise the "amazing attention to detail" and the freshness of the offerings, with one guest noting, "Every course was beautiful and delicious." The intimate setting and the chefs' interaction add a personal touch, enhancing the dining experience. According to another diner, "This was by far my best Omakase experience... the chef is dedicated heart and soul into his craft." Sushi Hon is not just a meal; it's a gastronomic journey that encapsulates the essence of top-tier Japanese cuisine.

‘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

L
Lindsay
San Francisco Bay Area •31 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Noisier than expected (was avoiding another noisy place to help out parent with hearing challenges) Excellent food and service!! Great look and feel
More info
Zentarou Sushi and Sake BarPrice: Expensive• Asian• Sunset District
•
4.8
K
Katie
San Francisco Bay Area •18 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
Love our Christmas Eve treat to Benihana. A firm family favourite the show, the food, the environment a true gem for young and old alike!!
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Benihana - San Francisco, CAPrice: Moderate• Japanese• Japantown
•
4.2
T
TrevorVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •13 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
We love Pacific Catch! It's one of our neighborhood "go tos" for lunch or dinner. Consistently good food, service, ambiance, and overall just lovely. We'll be back soon! :)
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Pacific Catch - Sunset DistrictPrice: Moderate• Seafood• Sunset District
•
4.7
C
Charles
New York City •1 review
5.0
Dined 4 days ago
We went for my wife’s birthday and had a very nice time. The food was exceptional and the wait staff was an orchestrated ballet of impeccable service. Everything from the appetizers, the main courses and the desserts were all rock solid. I expected at least one of these categories to be a little weak (as they are with most restaurants) and I was continually pleasantly surprised by the dynamic flavors and incredibly well-prepared, and well-seasoned food overall. My only critique would be that the broccolini was undercooked for my taste and a little too heavy on the garlic, and the porterhouse rolls were slightly disappointing — they were made of some kind of wheat dough with an added aromatic that wasn’t needed in my opinion. I was hoping for the classic buttery white bread porterhouse rolls! But if you are looking for exotic flavors, and open to things being a little different than expected, there’s no shortage of that at Niku. The ambience was modern, tasteful and chic. The music was a little loud, but that helped to provide a very immersive experience. After a few drinks you don’t notice as much lol. They have three different seating options: bar, tables, and chefs counter. This was not as clearly explained as it could’ve been on their website or on OpenTable. The pictures I found online didn’t give a clear enough idea of what the different seating options would look like, so that made planning a special occasion a little difficult. Otherwise, I couldn’t recommend this place enough.
More info
Niku SteakhousePrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• SOMA
•
4.8
C
CharlesVIP
San Francisco Bay Area •14 reviews
5.0
Dined 5 days ago
Wonderful omakase dinner. Definitely will be coming back
More info
Okaeri Japanese BistroPrice: Expensive• Japanese• Mission
•
4.8

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Forest Hill / West Portal

Japanese

Best Japanese Restaurants in Forest Hill / West Portal

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42 restaurants available nearby

1. Niku Steakhouse

2. Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar

3. Pacific Catch - Sunset District

4. Okaeri Japanese Bistro

5. Chotto Matte San Francisco

6. Elephant Sushi Hayes Valley

7. Benihana - San Francisco, CA

8. ANZU

9. Sato Omakase

10. Sushi Hon

See what locals rave about

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