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Sushi Bistro
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Sushi Bistro
8.2
Neighborhood date-night standby pairing fresh nigiri with creative rolls in a cozy, low-lit space. Friendly service and a compact sake list keep it relaxed but special.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s nigiri combo, Butterfish ‘blaster’ roll, Spicy scallop hand roll
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Balanced menu—solid nigiri plus fun, shareable specialty rolls.
Who should go: Couples wanting casual-but-special sushi
When to visit: After 8pm for shorter waits
What to order: Nigiri combo; butterfish roll; spicy scallop hand roll
Insider tip: Bar seats are first to free up when the list spikes.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Geary can be tough after 6pm—aim for side streets or use nearby paid lots off 6th Avenue.
Dress code: Smart casual—nice jeans and a button-down or blouse fit the tone; no need for formal wear.
Noise level: Moderate—bustling but manageable; easy to hold conversation at the bar or smaller two-tops.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seats may open sooner.
Weekday lunch: No wait—walk-in friendly during midday hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian rolls and veggie tempura options available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 vegan rolls and cucumber-avocado options, but sauces may contain fish-based ingredients.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tamari available on request and some rolls can be modified.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, intimate spacing, and friendly service make it relaxed yet still special for early dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, but waits can stretch on weekends. Add your name early or opt for bar seats to cut wait time.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids—best suited for adults or older teens; no dedicated kids’ menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Neighborhood date nights when you want quality sushi without the formality or expense of omakase-only counters.
Skip if: You’re looking for high-end omakase or extensive sake pairings—try Wako or Akiko’s for that experience.
Sushi Bistro
8.1
Neighborhood roll specialist known for playful signature maki and generous portions at fair prices. Go for the creative combos and a lively, casual vibe that works for friends or date-night at the sushi bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
African Spider Roll, Caterpillar Roll, Rainbow Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Inventive signature rolls with balanced flavors, not just sauces.
Who should go: Roll lovers seeking creative combinations
When to visit: Weeknights after 7:30pm for shorter waits
What to order: African Spider; Caterpillar; Rainbow
Insider tip: Ask for bar seats—fastest service and best plating tempo.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking on Geary and side streets; metered until 6pm and competitive on weekends.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; most diners wear jeans or casual date-night attire.
Noise level: Moderate—lively chatter but you can still hold a conversation across the table.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately or within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetarian rolls and appetizers like veggie tempura and cucumber avocado rolls.
Vegan options: Limited—can request no mayo or fish sauces for a few roll options.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free soy sauce available on request; rolls can be customized.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it’s relaxed but upbeat, with sushi bar seating that makes for an interactive, low-pressure first date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially on weeknights after 7:30pm; weekends can require a short wait during dinner rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy sushi; casual enough for families but limited stroller space during peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Creative signature rolls and generous portions that make group dining easy and fun.
Skip if: You’re seeking omakase-level sushi or a quiet, romantic setting—this spot leans lively and casual.
Sushi Bistro
8.0
Casual Inner Richmond spot for generous rolls, solid nigiri, and friendly service. It’s the weeknight go-to when you want variety—without a reservation marathon.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lion King baked salmon roll, Hamachi kama (grilled collar), Nigiri sampler
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Neighborhood-friendly sushi with big portions and fair pricing.
Who should go: Casual sushi nights and groups
When to visit: Evenings after 7pm for easier seating
What to order: Lion King roll; hamachi kama; nigiri sampler
Insider tip: Bar seats are fastest for two—watch for daily fish specials.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Geary and side streets; easier before 6pm but can get tight around dinner rush.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and sneakers are perfectly fine—locals come straight from errands or work.
Noise level: Moderate; lively chatter from families and groups, but conversation at your table is comfortable.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation after 6:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick turnaround for dine-in and takeout.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable rolls, tofu appetizers, and sides available.
Vegan options: Limited; avocado and cucumber rolls are the main options.
Gluten-free options: Moderate; gluten-free soy sauce available on request but shared prep surfaces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual date than a romantic one—energetic room, quick service, and good sushi variety without pretense.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common; small groups are usually seated within 20–30 minutes on busy nights.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are frequent; high chairs available and staff are welcoming to younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Reliable neighborhood sushi with large portions and approachable pricing; ideal for casual group dinners.
Skip if: You’re looking for omakase precision or quiet fine dining—opt for Wako or Kabuto instead.