Best Japanese Restaurants in Russian Hill (94109)
9 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Essential Picks
#1
Nisei
9.1
Refined Japanese-American tasting menus from chef David Yoshimura in an intimate Russian Hill room with polished, attentive service. Locals book far ahead for precise nigiri, seasonal courses, and a deep wine and sake program.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal tasting menu, Chawanmushi, Nigiri progression
What makes it special: Michelin-level tasting menu bridging Japanese technique and California seasonality.
Notable Picks
#2
Hinata
8.8
Omakase-focused counter where the team serves a tight progression of pristine nigiri with seasonal imports. Locals book it for special nights when they want serious fish without white-tablecloth fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase nigiri flight, Hokkaido uni, Chawanmushi
8.2
Bustling neighborhood sushi spot known for balanced nigiri, shareable rolls, and a friendly sake list. It’s the go-to before shows on Polk or an easy weeknight sushi fix.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chirashi bowl, Hamachi jalapeño, Spicy scallop roll
8.0
Comfortable, chef-led sashimi and nigiri with a tight hot menu in a polished neighborhood space. Consistent execution and warm service make it a reliable sit-down sushi choice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase sashimi, Black cod miso, Hamachi kama
Worthy Picks
#5
Bar Iris
7.8
Japanese-influenced cocktail bar next to Nisei serving precise drinks and polished small plates. A sleek pre- or post-dinner stop with bar-forward hospitality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal crudo, Milk bread bite, Highball with house soda
What makes it special: Cocktails and bar snacks shaped by Japanese technique and flavor.
#6
TaishoSF
7.7
Lively late-night Japanese/Hawaiian spot with drinks, snacks, and private karaoke rooms. Ideal for groups looking to graze on skewers, rolls, and party-friendly plates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken karaage, Spam musubi, Assorted yakitori
What makes it special: Karaoke rooms plus a snackable Japanese-leaning menu till late.
7.7
Compact Pine Street sushi bar doing nigiri, maki, and donburi with quick service. Handy for a casual dinner near Polk with a short sake list and counter seats.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sake don, Crunchy roll, Nigiri set
#8
Nara Sushi
7.7
Long-running Polk Gulch sushi counter known for fast service and solid value. Expect classic rolls, nigiri combos, and late hours relative to the neighborhood.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sushi & sashimi combo, Tempura udon, Rainbow roll
7.6
Budget-friendly sushi with steady basics and takeout-friendly rolls in a simple Geary storefront. A practical option for quick, affordable sushi in Lower Nob Hill.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salmon avocado roll, Spicy tuna roll, Nigiri combo