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Rock Japanese Cuisine
Master Critic Review
Rock Japanese Cuisine
7.7
Old-school Pine Street standby serving value-driven rolls and a full slate of teriyaki, udon, and sashimi. It’s a dependable Chinatown-adjacent pick for quick, affordable maki with friendly service.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Spider Roll, Spicy Tempura Salmon Roll, Rainbow Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Straightforward, budget-friendly rolls steps from Chinatown and Union Square.
Who should go: Casual sushi fans on a budget
When to visit: Weekday lunch or early dinner to avoid lines
What to order: Garlic Spider; Spicy Tempura Salmon; Rainbow roll
Insider tip: Carryout is fast—order ahead online during peak lunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking nearby; limited after 6pm. Closest garages are Sutter-Stockton and Union Square Garage, about a 5–7 minute walk.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and sneakers fine. No need to dress up unless coming from an event.
Noise level: Moderate; usually quiet enough to talk comfortably, though lunch rush can be lively.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes without reservation; longer if large groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even at peak.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable rolls, tofu teriyaki, and udon options.
Vegan options: Limited—avocado rolls, cucumber rolls, and some vegetable udon without broth add-ons.
Gluten-free options: Some sashimi and rice bowls are naturally gluten-free; soy sauce is not gluten-free unless you bring your own.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups than romantic first dates. It’s informal, affordable, and quick-paced.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—most guests walk in. Reservations are uncommon and not usually necessary.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for school-age kids who like sushi or teriyaki. No special kids’ menu, but staff are accommodating.
Best For
Better for: Fast, budget-friendly sushi near Chinatown and Union Square when you don’t want to spend big or wait long.
Skip if: You’re seeking high-end sushi artistry or romantic ambiance—look elsewhere for that experience.