30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Japanese in Chinatown
Best Rooftop Views Sushi in Chinatown
Best Luxury Dining Japanese in Chinatown
Best Sushi in Chinatown
Master Critic Review
Chotto Matte
8.6
High-energy Nikkei destination atop Union Square serving sashimi, tiraditos, and specialty rolls with polished cocktail service. Guests come for the dramatic indoor–outdoor setting and precise fish quality that holds up across the menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s sashimi selection, Tiradito flight, Nikkei specialty rolls
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Rooftop Nikkei experience pairing elegant sushi with skyline views.
Who should go: Design lovers and celebratory diners
When to visit: Reserve prime terrace seats before sunset
What to order: Tiraditos, chef’s sashimi, signature Nikkei rolls
Insider tip: Ask for terrace placement; wind breaks make shoulder-season evenings comfortable.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated valet; closest options are the Union Square garages (Powell or Sutter Stockton). Street parking is scarce after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale—jeans are fine with a jacket or heels, but most guests dress for a night out.
Noise level: High-energy with music and rooftop chatter—fine for groups, tougher for quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation; prime terrace tables require booking weeks ahead.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; evening reservations strongly recommended.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—sushi rolls, tiraditos with veggies, and a few hot dishes can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 rolls and some sides available; staff can guide modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes—several sashimi, tiradito, and grilled items are naturally gluten-free; soy sauce substitutes available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dramatic setting, rooftop views, and polished service make it impressive for a stylish date, though noise level is high.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible for the bar or lounge on off-peak weekdays, but weekends and terrace seating almost always require advance booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids due to the late-night vibe and noise; older teens who enjoy sushi and design-forward spaces may appreciate it.
Best For
Better for: Best in Union Square for dramatic rooftop ambiance, Nikkei fusion, and Instagram-worthy presentation.
Skip if: If you want quiet conversation, budget dining, or traditional Japanese-only menus—choose a smaller sushi bar instead.
Hours
Monday11:30am - 12am
Tuesday11:30am - 12am
Wednesday11:30am - 12am
Thursday11:30am - 12am
Friday11:30am - 1am
Saturday11am - 1am
Sunday11am - 12am