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Nisei
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Nisei
9.1
Refined Japanese-American tasting menus from chef David Yoshimura in an intimate Russian Hill room with polished, attentive service. Locals book far ahead for precise nigiri, seasonal courses, and a deep wine and sake program.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal tasting menu, Chawanmushi, Nigiri progression
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 9.2
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 9.4
What makes it special: Michelin-level tasting menu bridging Japanese technique and California seasonality.
Who should go: Special-occasion diners and omakase devotees
When to visit: Weeknights for calmer pacing and sommelier time
What to order: Tasting menu; chawanmushi; supplemental nigiri
Insider tip: Bar seats are occasionally released day-of—check evening availability.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Russian Hill is scarce and competitive in the evenings; nearby pay-to-park garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale—jackets and dresses are common; avoid overly casual wear like shorts or sneakers.
Noise level: Low to moderate—intimate dining room with hushed conversation; you can easily hear your companion.
Weekend wait: Reservations are required weeks in advance; walk-ins are almost never accommodated.
Weekday lunch: Closed at lunch—dinner service only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—advance notice allows the kitchen to adapt the tasting menu with thoughtful vegetarian substitutions.
Vegan options: Extremely limited—vegan diners should call ahead, as the tasting format makes accommodation challenging.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free requests are handled with care if specified when booking; soy sauce alternatives are available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its intimate, refined setting and polished service make it ideal for a memorable first date, especially for food-focused couples.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely—Nisei books out weeks in advance. Occasionally bar seats release day-of, but securing a table requires planning.
Is it kid-friendly? Not really—the long, structured tasting format and refined atmosphere are better suited for adults and older teens.
Best For
Better for: Perfect for luxury Japanese-American tasting menus with precision and creativity, and for wine or sake pairings guided by expert staff.
Skip if: If you’re looking for a casual sushi night, large group seating, or a quick à la carte meal—opt for neighborhood izakayas or sushi bars instead.
Nisei
8.8
Chef David Yoshimura’s Michelin-starred tasting menu channels Japanese American ‘California washoku’ with precise technique and seasonal Bay Area ingredients. Service is polished and the room is serene enough for milestone dinners without feeling stuffy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chawanmushi with uni, Grilled American unagi with tare, Panko-crusted wagyu ribeye
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Michelin-starred California washoku with exacting seasonal execution.
Who should go: Special-occasion diners and tasting-menu lovers
When to visit: Book 2–4 weeks ahead; weeknights are calmer
What to order: Chawanmushi, unagi course, wagyu course
Insider tip: Ask about seats in the quieter back room for the most intimate experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Russian Hill is limited; best to use nearby garages like the Polk & Clay lot (5-min walk). No valet offered.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale—collared shirts or dresses recommended; jeans acceptable if polished.
Noise level: Low to moderate—intimate and quiet enough for conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Reservation required; without one, walk-ins are rarely accommodated.
Weekday lunch: Closed at lunch; only dinner service available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—advance notice ensures a thoughtful tasting progression with multiple courses.
Vegan options: Limited—vegan tasting menu not standard but accommodations possible with prior request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—kitchen adapts most courses with advance notice; cross-contact is carefully managed.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its serene dining room, polished service, and Michelin-starred menu create an impressive, memorable setting without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Highly unlikely—demand is strong. Reservations are strongly advised 2–4 weeks ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal—tasting menu format and quiet room suit adults; older teens interested in fine dining may enjoy, but no children’s menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Nisei excels at precise Japanese-Californian tasting menus with seasonal storytelling, making it stand out from more traditional sushi or izakaya experiences.
Skip if: If you want à la carte dining, casual energy, or family-style portions, alternatives like upscale sushi counters or neighborhood izakayas are better fits.