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Sakesan Sushi & Robata
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Sakesan Sushi & Robata
7.6
Modern Japanese restaurant that supplements sushi and robata with a small ramen lineup. The miso-based bowls are reliable add-ons when you want a full-service sit-down experience on Ocean Ave.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Tokyo Style Miso Ramen, Tokyo Style Miso Ramen, Chicken Katsu Ramen
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 7.7
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Full-service setting with ramen options alongside sushi and robata.
Who should go: Sit-down diners wanting varied Japanese plates
When to visit: Weeknights before 7:30pm for easier seating
What to order: Spicy miso ramen, classic miso ramen, chicken katsu ramen
Insider tip: If you prefer richer broth, request add-on egg and extra chashu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Ocean Ave is limited during dinner hours; metered spots open up after 8pm, and a small public lot sits one block north behind the bank.
Dress code: Smart casual—think jeans and a button-up or a nice top; guests often lean slightly dressy for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate—lively energy but still comfortable for table conversation or a first date.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seating occasionally available for walk-ins.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though service starts closer to noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian sushi rolls and vegetable ramen are available on request.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 rolls and side dishes can be adapted, but ramen bases use animal stock.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tamari and gluten-free options available; inform staff when ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, attentive service, and a mix of sushi and ramen make it a comfortable, low-pressure date spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually on weeknights or early evenings, but weekends fill up quickly—reservations are recommended for groups or date nights.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—high chairs available, but the ambiance skews adult with limited space for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Polished, sit-down ramen in a setting that also delivers on sushi and cocktails—ideal when ambiance matters as much as food.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quick, no-frills ramen counter or strictly traditional noodle shop experience.
Sakesan Sushi & Robata
8.6
Ocean Avenue’s full-service spot for sizable specialty rolls and robata skewers with a lively sake/beer list. Locals lean on reliable execution and late daily hours for weeknight sushi runs.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Tuna Roll, Godzilla Roll, Golden Gate Roll
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Large, crowd-pleasing roll selection alongside robata and late hours.
Who should go: Roll lovers wanting full-service and options
When to visit: Weeknights 6–8pm or late after 9
What to order: Spicy Tuna; Golden Gate; Godzilla rolls
Insider tip: Scan the specials board—seasonal rolls rotate beyond the printed menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Ocean Avenue and nearby side streets; can be tight after 6pm but metered spots open up later in the evening.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and nice tops are fine; many guests dress up slightly for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate—music and chatter create energy but you can still hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seating fills first.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, but kitchen opens later than typical lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample veggie rolls, tempura, and grilled vegetable skewers.
Vegan options: Limited—avocado, cucumber, and oshinko rolls available but sauces may contain trace fish products.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tamari available upon request and many rolls can be prepared without tempura or soy sauce.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, booth seating, and upbeat background music make it a lively but comfortable choice for casual dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually on weeknights you can walk in, but on weekends or after 7pm, it’s best to reserve to avoid a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids—most guests are couples or groups. Older teens or sushi-loving families will be fine, but there’s no dedicated children’s menu.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for groups sharing large specialty rolls and robata skewers, plus late-night sushi when other nearby spots close early.
Skip if: You’re seeking quiet omakase or premium nigiri—go to a dedicated sushi bar instead.
Sakesan Sushi & Robata
8.3
Japanese spot on Ocean Ave that includes a small ramen lineup alongside sushi and robata. Reliable late-hours service (usually until 10:30–11pm) makes it a practical go-to for an evening bowl in 94112.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Tokyo Style Miso Ramen, Chicken Katsu Ramen, Tokyo Style Miso Ramen
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Late-night ramen availability in a sit-down setting on Ocean Ave.
Who should go: Night owls wanting ramen plus sushi options
When to visit: After 9pm for easier seating and quick turnarounds
What to order: Spicy miso ramen; chicken katsu ramen; Tokyo miso
Insider tip: Ask for extra-firm noodles if you prefer a chewier bite.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Ocean Avenue and nearby residential side streets; typically open spots after 8:30pm.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans fine, but most diners lean slightly polished for evening outings.
Noise level: Moderate — background chatter and music but you can hold a conversation easily.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes without reservation between 8–9:30pm.
Weekday lunch: No wait — steady flow with open tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple rolls, tempura, and ramen can be made vegetarian on request.
Vegan options: Limited — vegetable roll and edamame, but broths are not vegan.
Gluten-free options: Partial — tamari available; ramen noodles not gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — dimly lit interior with cozy booths and good energy makes it a solid casual date spot without being too loud.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes after 9pm; early dinner slots fill up fast, so call ahead on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably — high chairs available and staff are welcoming, though it’s more of an adult-leaning dinner atmosphere later in the evening.
Best For
Better for: Late-hour ramen and sushi combo meals in a more refined setting than nearby casual noodle shops.
Skip if: You want a purely ramen-focused experience — specialized ramen shops have deeper broth options.
Sakesan Sushi & Robata
8.4
Modern sushi and robata spot on Ocean Avenue known for polished plating, seared nigiri, and photogenic signature rolls. Locals use it for date nights and small celebrations thanks to attentive service and a sleek, neon-accented room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Aburi Roll, Chirashi Deluxe, Seared Salmon Belly Nigiri
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Refined, camera-ready nigiri and rolls with robata add-ons.
Who should go: Date-nighters and sushi fans seeking polish
When to visit: Evenings after 7pm for best room energy
What to order: Toro aburi roll; chirashi deluxe; hamachi kama
Insider tip: Ask for a seat near the sushi counter for the best plating views.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Ocean Avenue and nearby residential blocks; free after 6pm but fills quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans acceptable but most guests lean dressy for date nights or group dinners.
Noise level: Moderate — upbeat music and chatter, but you can comfortably hold a conversation across the table.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; best to book ahead for prime hours after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; same-day reservations usually available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several rolls, tempura, and robata vegetables marked vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 options such as avocado roll or grilled shishito peppers.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free soy sauce available on request; staff familiar with dietary restrictions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the sleek lighting, attentive pacing, and shareable sushi plates make it an ideal setting for a relaxed but elevated first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weekdays before 6:30pm, but weekends and holidays typically require advance booking via OpenTable.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — it’s more of an adult-focused dining room with limited space for strollers; better suited for older teens or date nights.
Best For
Better for: Polished presentation and romantic ambiance compared to other neighborhood sushi spots — great for photos or small celebrations.
Skip if: You prefer a casual, budget-friendly sushi counter or want quick takeout rather than a sit-down experience.
Sakesan Sushi & Robata
8.4
Larger-format sushi and robata spot with a full bar and lively dining room on Ocean Avenue. Known for seared toro rolls, yakitori skewers, and a broad sake list suited to date nights or groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro aburi roll, Chef’s nigiri set, Chicken & negima robata skewers
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Robata grill plus broad sushi menu with crowd-pleasing specials.
Who should go: Date nights and small groups
When to visit: Happy hour or early evening before the rush
What to order: Toro aburi roll, chef’s nigiri, yakitori sampler
Insider tip: Happy hour pricing softens the bill—sit at the bar for quickest service.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Ocean Avenue and nearby side streets; can be tight after 6pm, especially on weekends. No valet or private lot.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but most guests lean dressy for date nights or group dinners.
Noise level: Moderate-lively; comfortable for conversation at smaller tables, but expect bar and robata chatter during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation, especially between 7–9pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; bar seating often open.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian rolls, tempura, and vegetable robata skewers available.
Vegan options: Limited—2–3 options, mainly cucumber rolls and grilled vegetables.
Gluten-free options: Partial—sushi and sashimi are safe, but sauces and tempura may contain soy or flour; ask staff for adjustments.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. Dim lighting, sake flights, and an open robata grill create a lively yet intimate vibe perfect for a first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weekdays before 6:30pm; weekends are heavily booked. Bar seats are your best bet for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids—most guests are adults. Teens who enjoy sushi will be comfortable, but no kids’ menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Larger groups and couples seeking atmosphere—better cocktails and robata variety than most nearby sushi spots.
Skip if: You want omakase-style precision or a quiet meal; nearby small sushi bars offer a calmer, chef-driven experience.
Sakesan Sushi & Robata
8.4
Lively Ocean Avenue spot pairing a broad sushi menu with a working robata grill and a full sake list. Locals use it for date nights and groups thanks to seared toro rolls, yakitori, and steady execution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro aburi roll, Yakitori sampler, Hamachi kama
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Sushi plus robata grill under one roof with a broad sake program.
Who should go: Date nights and small groups
When to visit: Happy hour 4–6pm or early evening before peak
What to order: Toro aburi roll; chef’s nigiri; yakitori sampler
Insider tip: Bar seats move fastest and have the best view of the grill.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Ocean Avenue can be competitive after 6pm; metered spaces nearby, no valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but most guests lean dressy for date nights or group outings.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing at peak hours but manageable for table conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minutes without a reservation between 7–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; easy walk-in before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plenty of vegetable rolls, tofu yakitori, and salads.
Vegan options: Limited—about 2–3 items such as avocado rolls or grilled veggie skewers.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tamari available upon request; some rolls and grilled items are GF-friendly.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, stylish interiors, and a lively but not overwhelming vibe make it an excellent first-date choice. Sit at the robata counter for casual energy or in the booth section for more intimacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually possible on weeknights before 6:30pm, but weekends fill fast. The bar area often has first-come seating if you’re flexible.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—it’s more of an adult crowd after 6pm. Families with older kids are fine earlier in the evening, but no kids’ menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Better for lively date nights and social sushi outings thanks to the robata grill and full bar.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for quiet omakase-style dining or a purely traditional sushi experience.
Sakesan Sushi & Robata
8.4
Modern Japanese spot on Ocean Ave known for wide-ranging sushi, robata skewers, and a lively bar program. Fresh fish selections (including oysters and hamachi carpaccio) make it a neighborhood destination for casual date nights and groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hamachi Carpaccio, Dozen Oysters (happy hour), Cherry Blossom Roll
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Full sushi menu plus robata and oysters under one roof.
Who should go: Sushi lovers and small groups
When to visit: Weeknights 4–6pm for oyster happy hour
What to order: Hamachi carpaccio; 49ers/Cherry Blossom rolls; grilled hamachi kama
Insider tip: Ask for a booth or tatami-style seating for a quieter meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on Ocean Ave and nearby side streets; fills up quickly after 6pm. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Smart casual — nice jeans and a collared shirt or blouse fit the vibe. Date-night appropriate but not formal.
Noise level: Moderate — lively during dinner and happy hour but still easy to hold a conversation at booths.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–45 minute wait without a reservation after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk-ins seated quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several veggie rolls, agedashi tofu, and grilled vegetable skewers.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 options such as cucumber roll and grilled mushrooms.
Gluten-free options: Yes — tamari available upon request; many sushi and grilled items can be modified.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — dim lighting, comfortable booths, and sharable plates make it ideal for a relaxed first date that feels upscale but not stuffy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, but plan ahead. Walk-ins are fine before 6:30pm on weekdays; weekends tend to book out, especially near happy hour.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — it’s geared more toward adults and groups, but older kids comfortable with sushi and seafood are fine during early hours.
Best For
Better for: Fresh fish variety, lively bar, and balance of sushi with robata offerings — more versatile than typical neighborhood sushi spots.
Skip if: You’re looking for a quiet omakase-style experience or budget sushi; this is more about energy and social dining.