What is the best Sushi restaurant in Tenderloin?

Elephant Sushi — Hayes Valley is our top pick for Sushi restaurants in Tenderloin, scoring 8.5/10. Craft-minded sushi bar balancing classic nigiri and modern signatures.

Any insider tips for Elephant Sushi — Hayes Valley?

Counter seats get the quickest pacing and best chef interaction.

When should I visit Elephant Sushi — Hayes Valley?

Weeknights before 7 pm for easier seating

Who should go to Elephant Sushi — Hayes Valley?

Sushi fans who like stylish but relaxed rooms

Any insider tips for Ryoko's Japanese Restaurant & Bar?

Join the waitlist and request bar seats for fastest service.

When should I visit Ryoko's Japanese Restaurant & Bar?

After 9 pm for peak vibe; earlier for shorter waits

Who should go to Ryoko's Japanese Restaurant & Bar?

Night-owls craving quality rolls and nigiri

Any insider tips for NAKAMA Sushi?

Ask about off-menu specials—often limited to a few orders.

What should I order at NAKAMA Sushi?

Hamachi carpaccio, double hamachi roll, chirashi

Who should go to NAKAMA Sushi?

Couples seeking value and variety

Any insider tips for Akiko’s Sushi Bar (Mason Street)?

Sit at the sushi bar for faster turns and better pacing.

What should I order at Akiko’s Sushi Bar (Mason Street)?

Mason Street roll, toro special, lion king roll

When should I visit Akiko’s Sushi Bar (Mason Street)?

Early evening before theater rush

Best Date Night Sushi Restaurants in Tenderloin (94102)

Q: What should I order at Elephant Sushi — Hayes Valley?

Omakase mix nigiri, Ya Man roll, walu carpaccio

Q: What should I order at Ryoko's Japanese Restaurant & Bar?

Hamachi jalapeño, spicy tuna roll, chef’s nigiri

4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: February 2026

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Our Top Pick

Elephant Sushi — Hayes Valley

Craft-minded sushi bar balancing classic nigiri and modern signatures.

Notable Picks

#1 Elephant Sushi — Hayes Valley

8.5

$$ Hayes Valley

Vibes: Date Night Magic Group Dining Gatherings Trendy Table Hotspots

Cozy Hayes Valley counter and tables known for precise cuts and playful signatures like the flaming seabass. Presentation and sake list suit a polished but not stuffy date night.

Must-Try Dishes: Omakase Mix Nigiri, Ya Man Roll, Walu Carpaccio

What makes it special: Craft-minded sushi bar balancing classic nigiri and modern signatures.

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#2 Ryoko's Japanese Restaurant & Bar

8.4

$$$ Lower Nob Hill / Union Square

Vibes: Late Night Legends Trendy Table Hotspots Date Night Magic

Lively late-night sushi bar since 1987 offering nigiri, sashimi, and classic rolls in a moody, downstairs setting. Popular with couples who want energy over hushed tones and solid fish without the omakase price tag.

Must-Try Dishes: Hamachi Jalapeño, Spicy Tuna Roll, Chef’s Nigiri Selection

What makes it special: Iconic late-night sushi bar with steady nigiri and cocktails.

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#3 NAKAMA Sushi

8.0

$$$$ Hayes Valley

Vibes: Date Night Magic Trendy Table Hotspots Girls Night Out Approved

Cozy Hayes Valley spot offering an affordable omakase-style experience alongside an a la carte menu. Truffle-kissed hamachi carpaccio and creative special rolls make it date-friendly without splurge pricing.

Must-Try Dishes: Hamachi Carpaccio (truffle oil), Double Hamachi Roll, Chirashi Don

What makes it special: Approachable omakase feel with strong value plays.

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Worthy Picks

#4 Akiko’s Sushi Bar (Mason Street)

7.7

$$$ Union Square

Vibes: Date Night Magic Quick Bites Champions Hidden Gems Heaven

Union Square staple serving a broad sushi menu with house-named rolls and dependable nigiri at approachable prices. Good for a casual pre-show date or low-key sushi night.

Must-Try Dishes: Mason Street Roll, Toro Special Roll, Lion King Roll

What makes it special: Big menu with signature rolls at fair prices downtown.

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