Best Luxury Dining Japanese Restaurants in Tenderloin (94102)
4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
8.6
Hotel Nikko’s sleek sushi lounge pairs premium sashimi and makimono with rare sake and Japanese whisky in a polished room just off Union Square. Service is dialed-in and the setting works for dressed-up dates or pre-show dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bluefin nigiri flight, Assorted sashimi platter, Wagyu tataki
What makes it special: Refined hotel lounge serving premium sushi, sake, and whisky.
Neighborhood-chic sushi with careful cuts and a tight sake list in a modern Hayes Valley room. Known for well-executed nigiri and creative rolls that don’t overwhelm the fish.
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.
Since 1987, this lively basement spot has poured late-night energy into polished sushi and cocktails. Expect upbeat music, strong sake options, and dependable nigiri after theater hours.
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.
Worthy Picks
7.9
A compact Union Square stalwart focused on fresh fish and simple compositions. Chef-driven nigiri and quick pacing make it an efficient yet quality option near the hotels.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s Choice Nigiri, Chirashi Don, Salmon Belly Nigiri
What makes it special: Tight, fish-first menu with quick, efficient service steps from Powell.