What is the best Japanese restaurant in SoMa?

Omakase is our top pick for Japanese restaurants in SoMa, scoring 8.9/10. Tightly curated omakase with world-class sourcing and classical Edomae technique.

Any insider tips for Omakase?

Request end-counter seats for the clearest view of plating.

What should I order at Omakase?

Chef’s omakase; toro progression; uni nigiri

When should I visit Omakase?

Evenings with counter seats for chef interaction

Who should go to Omakase?

Sushi purists and anniversary diners

Any insider tips for Izakaya Rintaro?

Counter seats offer a front-row view of yakitori grilling.

What should I order at Izakaya Rintaro?

Tsukune; handmade tofu; sashimi plate

When should I visit Izakaya Rintaro?

Weeknights 6–8pm for smoother pacing

Who should go to Izakaya Rintaro?

Izakaya fans and natural-wine drinkers

Any insider tips for Okane?

Bar seats move fastest for à la carte nigiri orders.

What should I order at Okane?

Chef’s nigiri set; hamachi kama; crispy rice

When should I visit Okane?

Early evening to avoid peak waits

Any insider tips for Akari Japanese Bistro?

Check boards for rotating fish cuts and set specials.

What should I order at Akari Japanese Bistro?

Chirashi, karaage, salmon sashimi

When should I visit Akari Japanese Bistro?

Lunch Friday/Saturday or early dinner

Who should go to Akari Japanese Bistro?

Office lunch and casual sushi fans

Any insider tips for Curry Hyuga?

Ask for spice-level tweaks and add a soft-boiled egg for richness.

What should I order at Curry Hyuga?

Pork katsu curry; menchi curry; corn potage

When should I visit Curry Hyuga?

11:30am–12:30pm to beat the rush

Who should go to Curry Hyuga?

Budget-minded teams near Market Street

Best Japanese Restaurants in SoMa (94103)

5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked

Last Updated: February 2026

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Our Top Pick

Omakase

Tightly curated omakase with world-class sourcing and classical Edomae technique.

Notable Picks

#1 Omakase

8.9

$ Showplace Square / Design District

Vibes: Luxury Dining Elite Date Night Magic Instagram Worthy Wonders Solo Dining Sanctuaries

Twelve-seat Edomae counter where precise nigiri and kappo courses lead the show. Calm service and top-flight sourcing make it a special-occasion destination in Showplace Square.

Must-Try Dishes: Toro flight (chu/otoro), Hokkaido uni nigiri, A5 wagyu nigiri torch-seared

What makes it special: Tightly curated omakase with world-class sourcing and classical Edomae technique.

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#2 Izakaya Rintaro

8.6

$$$ Mission / 14th Street

Vibes: Date Night Magic Trendy Table Hotspots Group Dining Gatherings

NorCal produce meets Tokyo izakaya craft—binchotan yakitori, handmade tofu, and seasonal small plates in a warm wood-lined room. A Mission favorite for dates and serious sake.

Must-Try Dishes: Tsukune chicken meatball skewers, Handmade tofu with ginger, Udon with seasonal broth

What makes it special: Seasonal izakaya cooking with house-made staples and charcoal grill.

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#3 Okane

8.1

$$ Showplace Square / Design District

Vibes: Business Lunch Power Players Trendy Table Hotspots Solo Dining Sanctuaries

Neighborhood izakaya and sushi bar from the Omakase Group with shareable plates and solid nigiri at friendlier prices. A dependable pre-show or casual date option near Showplace Square.

Must-Try Dishes: Salmon belly aburi, Hamachi kama, Spicy tuna crispy rice

What makes it special: Refined izakaya standards and sushi with fair pricing and pace.

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Worthy Picks

#4 Akari Japanese Bistro

7.8

$$ SoMa

Vibes: Business Lunch Power Players Family Friendly Favorites Quick Bites Champions

Compact SoMa bistro from the Kakehashi group serving approachable sushi, donburi, and izakaya snacks. Friendly service and a tight menu make it a reliable neighborhood standby.

Must-Try Dishes: Chirashi bowl, Karaage, Salmon sashimi

What makes it special: Straightforward sushi and bistro plates at fair prices.

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#5 Curry Hyuga

7.7

$$ Mid-Market

Vibes: Business Lunch Power Players Comfort Food Classics Quick Bites Champions Solo Dining Sanctuaries

Counter-service Japanese curry shop serving thick, gently spiced sauces over rice with katsu or karaage. Go for swift, comforting plates before shows or errands along Market.

Must-Try Dishes: Pork Katsu Curry, Double Menchi Curry, Corn Potage

What makes it special: Speedy, deeply savory Japanese curry built for lunch.

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