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Best Japanese Restaurants in North Beach

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46 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Roka Akor - San Francisco restaurant
1. Roka Akor - San Francisco
4.7
Exceptional(2245)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 45 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 Niku Steakhouse restaurant
2. Niku Steakhouse
4.8
Exceptional(783)
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 Pabu Izakaya San Francisco restaurant
3. Pabu Izakaya San Francisco
4.4
Awesome(1378)
Price: Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 6 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 Ozumo - San Francisco restaurant
4. Ozumo - San Francisco
4.6
Exceptional(3398)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 29 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 Chotto Matte San Francisco restaurant
5. Chotto Matte San Francisco
4.4
Awesome(58)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Downtown / Union Square
Booked 10 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 KUSAKABE restaurant
6. KUSAKABE
4.9
Exceptional(401)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Financial District / Embarcadero
Booked 1 time today
Discover the pinnacle of Kyoto-style dining at KUSAKABE in San Francisco's Financial District, where the art of kaiseki meets seasonal creativity. Kyoto-born Chef Mitsunori Kusakabe, a winner of the Creative Sushi Award from the National Sushi Society, masterfully blends tradition with innovation. Diners rave about the "unforgettable" omakase experience, highlighting dishes like "the best nigiri we’ve ever tasted" and praising the ambiance for its elegance. Each course at KUSAKABE is a testament to the chef's expertise, promising not just a meal, but a culturally immersive experience that honors Kyoto's rich culinary heritage. Whether it's the petite omakase or the full kaiseki, KUSAKABE delivers an exceptional journey through the finest Japanese flavors.
A photo of Sato Omakase restaurant
7. Sato Omakase
4.7
Exceptional(226)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Tenderloin
Booked 7 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 AKIKOS restaurant
8. AKIKOS
4.7
Exceptional(1607)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • SOMA
Booked 4 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 Nisei restaurant
10. Nisei
4.8
Exceptional(71)
Price: Very Expensive
• Japanese • Russian Hill
Booked 4 times today
Nestled in the charming Russian Hill neighborhood of San Francisco, Nisei exemplifies the pinnacle of Contemporary Asian cuisine, merging Japanese flavor intricacies and Northern California's freshest ingredients. Chef David Yoshimura, a Michelin-starred talent, crafts a menu that is both a personal and cultural narrative, deeply rooted in his Japanese American heritage. Reviews rave about the "exceptional culinary skill" and "artfully layered flavors" that make each dish a masterpiece. Guests consistently commend the "world class service" and the intimate interactions with Chef Yoshimura, who often explains his dishes personally, adding a unique touch to the dining experience. The thoughtful combination of ambiance, meticulous service, and innovative cuisine at Nisei makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking an exceptional Contemporary Asian dining experience.
‘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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