0 Followers
Ebisu
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Ebisu
8.3
Family-owned Inner Sunset institution known for quality fish and a broad sushi menu served with steady hospitality. Locals line up for classic sets and a 10-piece nigiri omakase without the pretense.
Must-Try Dishes:
10-Piece Nigiri Omakase, Bincho (albacore) sashimi, Chirashi Deluxe
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Over four decades of trusted sushi with a loyal neighborhood following.
Who should go: Couples and longtime sushi regulars
When to visit: Arrive before 6pm to beat the wait
What to order: Nigiri omakase, bincho albacore, chirashi
Insider tip: They don’t take reservations—join the waitlist early and request counter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 9th Avenue and nearby residential blocks; expect competition after 6pm. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Smart casual; locals often wear jeans and sweaters, though many dress up slightly for dinner dates.
Noise level: Moderate – lively hum from the sushi bar, but conversation remains easy at tables.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes; join the waitlist in person or early evening for faster seating.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait before noon; steady but manageable flow until 1:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – vegetable rolls, agedashi tofu, and cooked vegetable sides are available.
Vegan options: Limited – a few veggie rolls and salads, but no dedicated vegan section.
Gluten-free options: Partially – sashimi and rice-based items are safe; request gluten-free soy sauce from staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – relaxed yet polished, with attentive service and quiet tables that suit conversation without pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – Ebisu doesn’t take reservations; arrive before 6pm or join the waitlist in person to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably – families dine early evenings; no high chairs or kids’ menu, but accommodating staff and familiar cooked dishes help.
Best For
Better for: Dependable sushi quality and neighborhood warmth that beat trendier omakase spots on comfort and consistency.
Skip if: You want a high-end tasting or avant-garde experience—Ebisu stays traditional and casual.
Ebisu
8.6
Long-running Inner Sunset sushi house known for precise nigiri and a deep fish list. Classic counter seats and elegant plating make it a photogenic standby near Golden Gate Park.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase nigiri set, Hamachi kama, Toro hand roll
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Seasoned sushi bar with meticulous fish and classic presentation.
Who should go: Nigiri lovers seeking polished execution
When to visit: Early evening before peak waits
What to order: Nigiri omakase, hamachi collar, toro hand roll
Insider tip: Ask about day-off-the-boat specials at the counter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along 9th Avenue and Irving; can be competitive after 6pm, especially weekends. No valet or private lot.
Dress code: Smart casual—neat jeans or a button-down are fine; many regulars dress up slightly for date night or omakase at the counter.
Noise level: Moderate—bustling during peak hours but you can comfortably hold a conversation at both counter and tables.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak Golden Gate Park event weekends.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, but fills up by 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable rolls, cucumber/avocado maki, and egg tamago available.
Vegan options: Limited—2–3 rolls possible if requested without mayo or bonito flakes.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tamari soy sauce available upon request; sushi rice and most fish are gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Ebisu’s intimate counter seating and refined presentation make it ideal for a first or early date. It strikes a balance between casual comfort and quiet sophistication.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—arrive before 6pm on weekends or after 8:30pm for best odds. Walk-ins are common but expect a short line at peak dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably—older kids who enjoy sushi are welcome, but there’s no dedicated children’s menu or booster seats. The space suits calm, well-behaved diners best.
Best For
Better for: More authentic and consistent nigiri than newer Instagram spots; lighting and presentation photograph beautifully without feeling gimmicky.
Skip if: You’re seeking fusion rolls, loud ambiance, or happy hour deals—try Eiji or Sanraku instead.
Ebisu
8.4
Family-run Inner Sunset institution serving fresh nigiri, sashimi, and lunch-friendly combo sets. Reliable execution and efficient midday service make it a practical professional meetup near Golden Gate Park.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Nigiri Set, Chirashi Bowl, Ankimo
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Longstanding, family-run sushi house with dependable lunch service.
Who should go: Teams needing reliable, polished sushi
When to visit: Tue–Fri 11:30–1:00 for shortest waits
What to order: Chirashi, omakase nigiri, ankimo starter
Insider tip: Bar seats turn faster and are ideal for two.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along 9th Avenue and nearby residential blocks; can fill quickly during weekday lunch hours.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and button-downs are fine, but most guests lean neat and understated for business lunches.
Noise level: Moderate during lunch—steady conversation buzz but quiet enough for work-related chats or client discussions.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without reservation; list fills fast due to local regulars.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately before noon; 10–15 minute wait after 12:15pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—avocado rolls, vegetable tempura, cucumber maki, and tofu dishes available.
Vegan options: Limited—basic veggie rolls and seaweed salad, but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—sashimi and select nigiri safe; gluten-free soy sauce available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—relaxed but polished enough for a casual date. The sushi bar offers a friendly setting with attentive service and no pretense.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically yes for weekday lunches, but expect a short wait during peak hours. Evenings and weekends can back up, so plan ahead or arrive early.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—staff are accommodating, but the space is compact and best suited for older kids comfortable with sushi service.
Best For
Better for: Reliable, traditional sushi with consistent quality and efficiency—ideal for business lunches or low-key professional meals.
Skip if: You’re seeking creative omakase or modern fusion menus; Ebisu sticks to classic execution over experimentation.
Ebisu
8.4
Inner Sunset landmark (family-run for decades) turning out fresh nigiri, sashimi, and classic rolls. Lively without being loud, it’s a dependable date spot near Golden Gate Park.
Must-Try Dishes:
10-piece omakase nigiri set, Chirashi bowl, Hamachi kama
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Long-running neighborhood institution with broad sushi selection and steady quality.
Who should go: Classic sushi fans near the park
When to visit: Go early—no reservations and lines form
What to order: Omakase nigiri, chirashi, ankimo appetizer
Insider tip: Bar seats move faster and are ideal for two.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along 9th Avenue and nearby side streets; meters until 6pm, can be tight on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and a nice shirt or sweater fit the local vibe.
Noise level: Moderate – you can hold a conversation without shouting, though it hums during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes; they don’t take reservations, so arrive before 6:30pm to avoid the line.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk-in seating is easy.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – veggie rolls, agedashi tofu, and sides like seaweed salad are available.
Vegan options: Limited – a few maki and salads, but broths and sauces often include fish stock.
Gluten-free options: Partial – sashimi is safe but soy sauce and tempura items contain gluten; bring your own GF soy sauce if sensitive.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. It’s intimate but lively, with enough buzz to ease awkward pauses and attentive service that doesn’t hover.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – it’s walk-in only. Arrive early or closer to closing for shorter waits; the sushi bar is often faster for two.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably – families dine early, but later hours skew adult. No high chairs or kids’ menu, so best for older kids or sushi-curious teens.
Best For
Better for: Classic nigiri and rolls with consistent freshness at fair prices in a comfortable, date-night-friendly setting.
Skip if: You want elaborate omakase theatrics or high-end presentation – try Zentarou or Saru Sushi instead.
Ebisu
8.6
Long-running Inner Sunset sushi landmark known for precise cuts and a deep roll menu that balances classics with local favorites. Locals post up for maki like Rainbow and 49er rolls alongside seasonal specials at the sushi bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
49er Roll, Rainbow Roll, Spicy Tuna Crunch Roll
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Seasoned sushi bar turning out dialed classics and seasonal rolls.
Who should go: Roll lovers who want skillful execution
When to visit: Weeknights after 8 pm to avoid peak queues
What to order: 49er Roll; Rainbow Roll; Hamachi Jalapeño Roll
Insider tip: Ask the sushi bar for off-menu roll riffs when seated up front.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; spots open up after 7:30 pm but can be tight during dinner rush. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Smart casual; locals wear jeans and button-ups or sweaters. Slightly elevated attire suits date nights.
Noise level: Moderate; conversation-friendly with occasional bursts of bar chatter near peak hours.
Weekend wait: 40–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seats may open sooner.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; typically seated within 5–10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – avocado, cucumber, and vegetable rolls plus appetizers like agedashi tofu.
Vegan options: Limited – a few rolls and salads; request no mayo or tempura batter.
Gluten-free options: Yes – tamari available on request; sushi and sashimi safe if sauces are avoided.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. Ebisu’s cozy booths, attentive service, and reliable quality make it ideal for a relaxed but polished first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, though waits can stretch up to an hour on weekends. Arrive early or opt for bar seating for faster turnaround.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with older kids; high chairs are limited, but the environment is calm and staff accommodating.
Best For
Better for: Expertly prepared rolls with balanced flavors and traditional technique in a neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You want cutting-edge omakase or fusion-style rolls—consider Saru Sushi Bar or Robin instead.
Ebisu
8.5
Long-running neighborhood standard near Golden Gate Park serving broad sushi, sashimi, and cooked classics. Dependable sourcing and steady execution draw regulars before and after park visits.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s Nigiri Set, Toro Sashimi, Hamachi Kama
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Decades-strong local favorite with wide sushi and cooked options.
Who should go: Park-goers and sushi traditionalists
When to visit: Tue–Thu lunch or early dinner to avoid waits
What to order: Chef’s nigiri set, toro sashimi, hamachi collar
Insider tip: Arrive at opening—no reservations and lines build quickly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Irving and side streets; expect competition after 6pm, limited metered spots nearby.
Dress code: Smart casual—clean jeans or casual dresses are fine; many diners come from the park or nearby museums.
Noise level: Moderate—lively hum from conversations and sushi bar but still comfortable for casual dates or small groups.
Weekend wait: 40–60 minutes without a reservation, sometimes longer after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately or within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several veggie rolls, tempura, and tofu dishes available.
Vegan options: Limited—vegetable rolls and salads only, as many sauces use dashi or mayo.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—sashimi and some grilled items are fine; soy sauce substitution available on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—cozy enough for conversation without awkward quiet, and the long-standing reputation adds reliability and ease. Great if your date enjoys sushi or sake.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Ebisu doesn’t take reservations, so plan to arrive before 6pm for dinner or right at opening for lunch to minimize waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families often dine early. Booster seats available; staff are used to accommodating children, though space is tighter during peak hours.
Best For
Better for: Consistent quality and variety in both raw and cooked dishes; dependable service and sushi freshness compared to nearby casual spots.
Skip if: You want an omakase-focused or ultra-modern sushi bar experience—other Inner Sunset options like Koo fit that niche better.
Ebisu
8.5
Family-run Inner Sunset institution serving the neighborhood for four decades with broad sushi, sashimi, and cooked classics. Reliable sourcing and steady execution make it a go-to before or after Golden Gate Park.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Sashimi, Hamachi Kama, Chef’s Nigiri Set
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Long-running neighborhood sushi leader with loyal regulars.
Who should go: Park-goers and sushi traditionalists
When to visit: Tue–Thu lunch or early dinner to avoid lines
What to order: Chef’s nigiri set, hamachi kama, toro sashimi
Insider tip: They don’t take reservations—arrive right at opening for quickest seating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Irving and 9th Avenue; metered and residential spots fill quickly after 6pm. No private lot or valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and a nice top fit right in. Most diners come from the park or neighborhood, but it’s tidy enough for a date.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzy at peak dinner but still possible to hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without reservation, especially 6:30–8pm peak.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait before 12:30pm; steady but manageable crowd.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple rolls, tofu starters, and vegetable tempura options.
Vegan options: Limited—veggie rolls and cucumber-avocado maki available but sauces may contain fish-based ingredients.
Gluten-free options: Partially—sashimi and select rolls can be made gluten-free upon request; soy sauce contains gluten unless you bring or request tamari.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The classic sushi bar and steady pace make it ideal for a low-pressure, conversation-friendly date without pretension.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Ebisu doesn’t take reservations. Arriving right at opening or between 8–9pm usually secures a table with minimal wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids (8+). The space is compact with counter seating, but friendly servers and cooked items like teriyaki or udon suit families.
Best For
Better for: Reliable sushi classics and friendly, family-run warmth—great for groups or casual dates wanting traditional nigiri over flash.
Skip if: You’re seeking omakase theater or cutting-edge presentation; newer spots like Zentarou lean more contemporary.