Best Japanese Restaurants in Haight Ashbury (94117)
8 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
#1
KEN
8.9
Six–seven seat omakase led directly by chef-owner Ken Ngai focuses on pristine Edomae nigiri and a tight progression that changes with market fish. Locals book it for intimate, high-precision sushi without the pomp.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase nigiri progression, Uni flight, Final toro hand roll
What makes it special: Chef-led, ultra-intimate Edomae omakase with meticulous fishwork.
#2
jū-ni
8.7
Twelve-seat counter where one chef serves four guests in a polished, seasonally tuned omakase. It’s the neighborhood’s destination for precise rice and lively chef interaction.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase sequence, Uni supplement, Chutoro nigiri
What makes it special: Omakase-only counter with direct chef-to-guest service.
#3
Kibatsu
8.4
Lower Haight sushi bar known for nigiri-first omakase at the counter and a tight list of seasonal specials. Service leans personal and conversational, making it a relaxed, grown-up date option without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Nigiri Flight, Cherry Bomb (tuna + crab), Goldeneye Snapper (tai)
What makes it special: Counter-led omakase with personable pacing and seasonal fish.
8.2
Compact udon specialist making Fukuoka-style noodles in-house; broths run clean to hearty with seasonal tempura toppings. It’s a dependable noodle stop for lunch or early dinner along Divisadero.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kakiage udon, Niku udon, Kitsune udon
What makes it special: Fresh house-milled udon with focused, balanced broths.
8.2
Lower Haight favorite with a deep roll list and sake focus; polished enough for client catch-ups. Portions and plating land a notch above typical neighborhood sushi.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hamachi Kama, Sashimi Plate, Red Dragon Roll
What makes it special: Sake-forward list and refined sashimi for more formal lunches.
8.0
Haight Street spot with a broad sushi menu and midday service that moves. Consistent rolls and chirashi make it a solid business-casual choice near the park.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ginza Roll, Chirashi Bowl, Usuzukuri Salmon
What makes it special: Broad lunch menu with fast ticket times for teams.
Worthy Picks
7.7
Counter-service spot near the Panhandle turning out tidy chirashi and cleanly cut nigiri at fair prices. Great for park picnics or a quick, low-key dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Deluxe chirashi, Nigiri combo, Salmon ikura don
What makes it special: Chirashi-focused counter with neat cuts and park-friendly boxes.
#8
Hot Zushi
7.6
Compact Lower Haight counter with crowd-pleasing rolls and fast turnarounds. Best for quick, low-cost sushi runs or grab-and-go between meetings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Red Hot Roll, Baked Crab Hand Roll, Rainbow Roll
What makes it special: Speedy counter service with value pricing on popular rolls.