0 Followers
Moshi Moshi
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Moshi Moshi
8.1
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Happy Hour Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
Dogpatch stalwart (since 1987) serving sushi, soba/udon, and bento-friendly lunch sets with efficient service. A practical pick for client-friendly lunches with sake and Japanese whisky options without the downtown fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chirashi Lunch Set, Chicken Karaage, Tempura Udon
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Legacy Dogpatch Japanese spot with full bar and speedy lunch service.
Who should go: Teams needing reliable sushi with drinks
When to visit: Weekday lunch before 12:15 to skip waits
What to order: Chirashi set, karaage, tempura udon
Insider tip: Ask for the lunch specials board—often better value than the menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 18th Street and Tennessee is usually available midday but fills by 12:30; no valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Smart casual—acceptable for client lunches; business attire not required but common.
Noise level: Moderate during lunch—conversations are easy before noon but can get lively as tables fill.
Weekend wait: Closed Sundays; short waits on Saturday evenings (~15 minutes).
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 12:15; 10–20 minutes after 12:30 peak.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several sushi rolls, tofu dishes, and noodle soups available.
Vegan options: Limited – can request veggie rolls and udon without broth base.
Gluten-free options: Partial – tamari available on request; tempura and sauces contain gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a relaxed lunch or casual dinner date than a romantic setting; lighting and vibe are upbeat rather than intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – weekday lunches are walk-in friendly before noon; reservations only needed for larger groups or Friday evenings.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids—bento boxes and noodles work well, though space is tight for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Faster, more reliable lunch service and sake bar than nearby upscale Japanese spots.
Skip if: You’re seeking omakase or a quiet fine-dining experience—this is more of a neighborhood classic.
Moshi Moshi
8.0
Dogpatch staple with neon accents, a full bar, and classic sushi presented on dark slate for high-contrast shots. Longtime locals come for reliable nigiri, rolls, and a relaxed, lively room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hamachi nigiri, Spicy tuna roll, Chirashi bowl
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Neon-lit bar energy with classic sushi that photographs well.
Who should go: Friends meeting up in Dogpatch
When to visit: Early evening before peak bar crowd
What to order: Hamachi nigiri; spicy tuna; chirashi
Insider tip: Slide into the back garden area when open for softer light.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Dogpatch, especially after 6pm; nearby paid lots are available on 3rd Street.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but many opt for a slightly dressy look given the bar vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — conversation is possible but the bar energy picks up after 7pm.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though the room fills by 12:30 pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several rolls, vegetable tempura, and tofu dishes available.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 options such as veggie rolls and cucumber avocado.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free tamari available on request, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the neon-lit bar and garden seating offer a relaxed but stylish setting. Go earlier in the evening for easier conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but waits can stretch to 30–45 minutes on weekends. Walk-ins fare better at the bar or if arriving before 6:30 pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Best suited for adults and older teens; there are no special kids’ amenities and the late-night bar vibe isn’t ideal for young children.
Best For
Better for: A lively group dinner with photogenic sushi and cocktails in a neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You want a quiet, minimalist omakase experience — head to a dedicated sushi counter instead.
Moshi Moshi
8.4
Dogpatch’s long-running sushi bar pairs pristine nigiri and maki with a serious sake selection in a cozy, wood-accented room. Locals book it for relaxed, conversation-friendly dates where quality fish and warm hospitality lead.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chirashi Bowl, Hamachi Kama, Dragon Roll
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Neighborhood fixture since the late ’80s with a deep sake list.
Who should go: Couples who value craft and calm
When to visit: Weeknights after 7 for unhurried counter time
What to order: Chirashi, hamachi kama, a chef’s nigiri selection
Insider tip: Ask staff for off-menu seasonal nigiri flights with sake pairings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Dogpatch is metered during the day and can be tight at night; no valet service. Best luck on side streets off 18th Street.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but many guests lean slightly dressy for date night.
Noise level: Moderate; easy to hold a conversation without shouting, especially at the counter.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seats sometimes available sooner.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; not a heavy lunch spot.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – vegetable rolls, tempura, and cooked small plates are available.
Vegan options: Limited – a few veggie rolls and salads, but not a broad selection.
Gluten-free options: Yes – sushi rice is safe, and staff can advise on tamari substitution for soy sauce.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – the cozy room, attentive service, and quality sake program make it an easy, low-stress setting for a first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights at the bar or early dinner, but weekends fill quickly; reservations are strongly advised.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly – the intimate setting caters more to adults. Older kids could be fine, but there’s no children’s menu or play space.
Best For
Better for: Better for couples seeking calm, seasoned hospitality and a deep sake list compared to trendier sushi spots.
Skip if: Skip if you want flashy omakase theatrics or very large group dining space; it’s better suited to intimate meals.
Moshi Moshi
8.4
Dogpatch standby (since 1987) turning out classic and signature rolls alongside a deep sake list. Locals come for dependable maki execution and a neighborhood bar vibe that still feels personal on busy nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Moshi Moshi Roll, Dragon Roll, Ahi Coconut Katsu
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Legacy Dogpatch sushi bar with signature rolls and serious sake.
Who should go: Neighborhood regulars and sushi roll traditionalists
When to visit: Weeknights after 7 or late lunch
What to order: Moshi Moshi Roll; Dragon Roll; crispy rice
Insider tip: Ask about seasonal off-menu rolls—often limited to bar seats.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Dogpatch is metered and can fill up quickly after 6pm; a small paid lot is two blocks away on 3rd Street.
Dress code: Casual with a stylish edge—jeans and sneakers are fine, but many locals lean slightly dressy for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate—bar energy and background music mean some buzz, but you can still hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer if arriving after 7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; walk-ins are common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plenty of vegetable rolls and tofu starters.
Vegan options: Limited—2–3 rolls and sides can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free soy sauce available; some rolls can be adapted.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, a long sake list, and friendly service make it a relaxed but slightly polished setting for a first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially during weekday lunches or early evenings; on weekends after 7pm, reservations are strongly advised.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy sushi; the bar vibe skews more adult in the evenings, so families often come earlier in the day.
Best For
Better for: Better than trendier SoMa sushi spots for consistency, neighborhood comfort, and an extensive sake selection.
Skip if: Skip if you want cutting-edge omakase or ultra-modern décor—this is a legacy Dogpatch bar with classic sushi focus.
Moshi Moshi
8.2
Dogpatch legacy (since 1987) pairing classic sushi with a full bar and a neighborhood feel. Reliable fish quality and fast-paced service make it a go-to for casual sashimi, nigiri, and chirashi.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hamachi Kama (grilled collar), Chirashi Bowl, Uni Nigiri (seasonal)
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Long-running Dogpatch sushi bar with steady fish quality.
Who should go: Casual sushi lovers and bar-seat regulars
When to visit: Lunch before 12:15 or after 1:30
What to order: Hamachi kama; chirashi; seasonal uni
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for fastest service and off-menu nigiri.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Dogpatch can be challenging at peak hours, but metered and unmetered spaces are available on 18th Street and nearby side streets. No valet.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and sneakers are fine. Locals often drop by after work or errands.
Noise level: Moderate—bar area can be lively, but tables are generally conversational.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes at peak times without a reservation; bar seats turn faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, except a short rush around 12–12:30.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable rolls, cucumber/avocado maki, agedashi tofu, and sides.
Vegan options: Limited—basic vegetable rolls and edamame, but most cooked dishes include fish or dashi.
Gluten-free options: Yes—sashimi, nigiri, and some rolls are naturally gluten-free; request tamari in place of soy sauce.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re looking for something casual and low-pressure. The bar seating offers interaction with chefs, but it’s not a candlelit atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially for solo diners or small parties. Bar seats are easiest to snag quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy sushi. Space is limited, so not ideal for strollers or toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Fast, reliable sushi in Dogpatch with a local, unfussy vibe—better suited than trendier omakase counters if you want consistency without splurge.
Skip if: You’re seeking high-end omakase, dramatic plating, or a quiet fine-dining atmosphere.
Moshi Moshi
8.0
Dogpatch stalwart pairing classic nigiri and rolls with a deep Japanese whisky list. Reliable execution and easygoing service make it a go-to for casual dinners and pre- or post-event meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Big-eye tuna nigiri, Sashimi set, Tempura roll
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Sushi with one of the area’s better Japanese whisky selections.
Who should go: Neighborhood sushi fans and whisky lovers
When to visit: Weeknights 5–7 or after 8
What to order: Big-eye tuna nigiri; sashimi set; tempura roll
Insider tip: Ask about the whisky list—limited bottles rotate.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available in Dogpatch, but it can be competitive on weekends and during Giants games at Oracle Park. No valet offered.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and a nice shirt are fine, though some regulars lean a bit dressier for evenings.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during happy hour. Conversation is manageable but can be raised in peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially around 7–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins are fine.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—rolls, tempura, and a few small plates are suitable for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited—avocado and cucumber rolls plus edamame, but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Partial—sashimi and some rolls can be made gluten-free, but soy sauce is not celiac-safe unless you request tamari.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want casual and lively—its whisky list and neighborhood charm make it fun, though it’s not the quietest spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for early or late seatings; prime dinner hours may require a short wait unless booked ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably—kids are welcome and high chairs are available, though evenings can be louder and better suited to adults.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for whisky lovers and neighborhood regulars who want reliable sushi at approachable prices.
Skip if: If you’re seeking ultra-high-end omakase or a very quiet, romantic atmosphere, consider alternatives.
Moshi Moshi
8.0
Dogpatch institution since 1987 offering sushi alongside one of the city’s deeper Japanese whisky selections. A neighborhood fixture that balances classic rolls, nigiri, and a full bar in a relaxed setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Big-eye tuna nigiri, Shrimp tempura maki, Chef’s choice sashimi
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Long-running Dogpatch sushi bar with a notable Japanese whisky list.
Who should go: Neighborhood regulars and whisky fans
When to visit: Weeknights 5–7 or after 8
What to order: Big-eye tuna nigiri; tempura roll; sashimi set
Insider tip: Ask for the back patio seating on pleasant evenings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Dogpatch is generally available but can tighten up after 6pm on weekdays; no valet service.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and sneakers are fine, but many opt for neat-casual given the whisky bar vibe.
Noise level: Moderate—music and bar chatter, but you can hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: No wait; steady but manageable flow.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several rolls and hot dishes are available; staff can suggest adaptations.
Vegan options: Limited—avocado rolls and veggie sides, but not a full vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—sashimi, rice-based dishes, and some rolls; soy sauce substitutions available on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—casual but lively, with whisky flights and sushi making for a fun, relaxed date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually—walk-ins are common, though groups of four or more should reserve, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably—families do come early evenings, but the bar focus makes it more adult-oriented after 8pm.
Best For
Better for: Japanese whisky selection and a true neighborhood institution vibe that newer SoMa sushi spots can’t match.
Skip if: You want cutting-edge omakase or ultra-modern plating—this is more classic and relaxed.