Best Luxury Dining Japanese Restaurants in Tenderloin (94102)
4 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Kanpai Sushi Lounge
Refined hotel lounge serving premium sushi, sake, and whisky.
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.