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Kabuto Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Kabuto Restaurant
8.4
Long-running Richmond sushi house pairing traditional nigiri with well-executed specialty rolls. Known for fresher-than-expected fish and a quietly focused dining room that rewards regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Fire Salmon Roll, Dragon Roll, Rainbow Roll
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Traditional craftsmanship with a deep roll menu and steady sourcing.
Who should go: Sushi purists who still want great rolls
When to visit: Early dinner 5:30–6:30pm for smooth pacing
What to order: Fire Salmon; Dragon; Rainbow
Insider tip: Request daily fish recommendations—off-menu cuts rotate.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking on Clement and 17th; metered until 6pm, free after. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans or business attire both fit the quiet, upscale tone.
Noise level: Low to moderate — ideal for conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; regulars book early.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins welcome at counter or small tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple vegetable rolls and tofu appetizers available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few cucumber, avocado, and oshinko rolls.
Gluten-free options: Yes — tamari available on request; staff aware of cross-contact precautions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — intimate, softly lit, and focused on quality over flash. The quiet pacing makes it ideal for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually possible on weeknights or early weekends, but reservations are advised for peak Friday–Saturday dinners.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — the calm atmosphere suits adults and older teens more than young children.
Best For
Better for: Traditional sushi lovers who value craftsmanship and consistency over trend-driven fusion menus.
Skip if: You want loud ambiance, creative fusion rolls, or all-you-can-eat formats — this is refined and reserved.
Kabuto Restaurant
8.5
Long-running Richmond District sushi bar (since 1982) known for traditional nigiri, warm hospitality, and steady fish quality. It’s a neighborhood standby for refined sushi without downtown fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s choice nigiri set, Ankimo (monkfish liver), Toro nigiri (market)
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Decades of craft with a classic, chef-led sushi experience.
Who should go: Traditional nigiri fans
When to visit: Early evening to avoid peak waits
What to order: Nigiri omakase; ankimo; toro
Insider tip: Ask for daily specials—off-menu cuts rotate with market fish.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Geary can be tight after 6pm; residential side streets offer better luck. No valet or private lot available.
Dress code: Smart casual; most guests wear neat jeans or slacks with a button-down or blouse. Avoid overly casual gym wear.
Noise level: Moderate – the sushi bar is calm enough for conversation, though peak hours can bring a low hum of chatter.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; the counter fills first.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; easy walk-in for solo diners or pairs.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited options such as cucumber roll, tamago, and vegetable tempura are available on request.
Vegan options: Very limited – a few vegetable rolls can be prepared, but miso soup contains fish stock.
Gluten-free options: Yes – soy sauce substitutions and sashimi options available; alert staff when ordering.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – the counter seating and intimate space create a quiet, attentive atmosphere perfect for conversation and shared omakase moments.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly for early or late seatings, but reservations are recommended Friday through Sunday as the dining room is small and fills fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children; the quiet setting and limited menu suit adults and older teens who enjoy sushi.
Best For
Better for: Classic Edo-style nigiri with consistent fish quality and personal service at the counter – a refined, low-key sushi experience.
Skip if: You prefer modern rolls, fusion-style sushi, or a loud, social dining scene – Kabuto stays traditional and understated.