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Nippon Curry San Francisco
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Nippon Curry San Francisco
8.2
Marina counter spot specializing in Japanese curry with crisp katsu and customizable heat levels. Line moves fast and plates land hot—ideal for a quick, satisfying lunch.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork Katsu Curry, Chicken Karaage Curry, Croquette Curry
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Specialized Japanese curry program with crisp-fried toppings.
Who should go: Curry lovers needing speed
When to visit: 11:00–12:15 to beat the rush
What to order: Pork katsu curry; karaage curry; croquette add-on
Insider tip: Ask for half-and-half curry sauce if you like to mix styles.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Chestnut and Fillmore is metered but usually manageable before noon; after 12:30pm it tightens considerably. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual – office wear or jeans are fine; most guests are coming from nearby shops or co-working spaces.
Noise level: Moderate buzz during lunch; easy enough to converse but expect ambient chatter and order calls.
Weekend wait: Closed for dinner service – lunch only.
Weekday lunch: 5–10 minutes at peak; often no wait before 11:45am.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – vegetable curry and croquette curry options are available.
Vegan options: Limited – sauce base includes butter; can request plain rice and salad only.
Gluten-free options: Not fully – katsu and roux both contain wheat; no separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a first date—service is counter-style and fast-moving, better for casual meetups or quick lunches.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, it’s walk-in only. Expect short lines that move quickly; solo diners often grab counter seats immediately.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably – staff are accommodating, and mild curry versions work for kids, but seating is limited and there are no high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Faster and more consistent Japanese curry than nearby fusion cafés; ideal for a hearty meal between meetings.
Skip if: Skip if you want a drawn-out sit-down lunch or require gluten-free dining.
Nippon Curry San Francisco
7.8
Counter-service Japanese curry shop serving crisp katsu over rich, stewy curry with customizable heat. Fast, satisfying plates work for a quick lunch or low-key dinner near Chestnut.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork katsu curry, Beef curry, Ebi fry curry
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Crisp cutlets and deeply savory curry with quick service.
Who should go: Curry lovers craving fast comfort
When to visit: Late lunch 2–4pm to skip lines
What to order: Pork katsu curry, beef curry, ebi fry curry
Insider tip: Adjust spice and add cheese or egg for extra richness.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only along Lombard and side streets; easier mid-afternoon but fills quickly at dinner hours.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation friendly with background chatter from the counter and kitchen.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak hours; counter turnover is fairly quick.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait except for brief rushes around noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable curry and salad options available.
Vegan options: Limited—sauce base contains dairy, though side salads and rice plates can be adjusted.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free prep; curry roux contains wheat.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for romance—it’s more of a quick, counter-style spot focused on hearty plates over ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins only. Tables are first-come, first-served, and turnover is fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—great for families with young kids thanks to mild curry options, quick service, and casual seating.
Best For
Better for: Faster service and customizable spice compared to sit-down Japanese restaurants nearby.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet, atmospheric dinner or high-end sushi experience—this is more comfort-food casual.