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NAKAMA Sushi
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
NAKAMA Sushi
8.0
Cozy Hayes Valley spot offering an affordable omakase-style experience alongside an a la carte menu. Truffle-kissed hamachi carpaccio and creative special rolls make it date-friendly without splurge pricing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hamachi Carpaccio (truffle oil), Double Hamachi Roll, Chirashi Don
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: Approachable omakase feel with strong value plays.
Who should go: Couples seeking value and variety
When to visit: Tue–Thu 5–7 pm sweet spot
What to order: Hamachi carpaccio, double hamachi roll, chirashi
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu specials—often limited to a few orders.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Hayes Valley is limited after 6 pm; best bet is the nearby public garages on Gough or Franklin.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine, but many guests lean stylish for date night.
Noise level: Moderate—lively buzz but still easy to hold a conversation across the table.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7 pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; evenings after 5:30 pm fill quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several rolls, tempura, and vegetable-forward small plates.
Vegan options: Limited—about 2–3 options like avocado rolls and seaweed salad.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tamari available on request; many nigiri and sashimi options are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the cozy room, polished plating, and value-conscious omakase vibe create a memorable but approachable first date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weeknights before 6 pm, but weekends and peak hours almost always require a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—it's small, date-focused, and better suited to adults. Families with older kids may be fine, but there are no special amenities for children.
Best For
Better for: Strong value omakase-style dining in an intimate setting, with creative rolls like truffle hamachi carpaccio.
Skip if: You’re seeking large-group seating, a wide vegan menu, or a quiet, hushed atmosphere.
NAKAMA Sushi
8.1
Cozy Hayes Valley spot with an accessible roll list that ranges from salmon-forward classics to indulgent signatures like A5 wagyu-topped maki. Friendly service and fair pricing draw regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
A5 Wagyu Beef Roll, 49er Roll, Cherry Blossom Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Approachable rolls plus premium riffs like wagyu-topped maki.
Who should go: Casual sushi fans seeking variety
When to visit: Weeknights 5–7pm for easiest seating
What to order: A5 Wagyu Roll; 49er; Cherry Blossom
Insider tip: Ask for chef specials—there’s often a limited-run roll.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Hayes Valley is limited—metered spots are available but fill quickly. Paid garages within a 5-minute walk are the best option on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual—most guests wear jeans or casual dresses, but nicer attire works well for date night.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation-friendly with some background buzz during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer after 7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: No wait—walk-ins are typically seated right away.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple veggie rolls and appetizers are available.
Vegan options: Limited—about 2–3 options, mostly vegetable rolls without sauces.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tamari available upon request and many rolls can be adjusted.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its cozy, intimate feel and polished service make it ideal for a relaxed first date with quality sushi.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but on weekends expect to wait 30–45 minutes; weeknights before 7pm are easiest for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—best suited for adults or teens; there’s no kids’ menu or booster seats, but families with older children are welcome.
Best For
Better for: More approachable than pricier omakase spots, with premium flourishes like wagyu-topped rolls without the formal structure.
Skip if: Skip if you’re seeking an elaborate omakase tasting—this is a roll-focused spot rather than a high-end chef’s counter.
NAKAMA Sushi
8.1
Hayes Valley sushi spot balancing classic nigiri with crowd-pleasing special rolls and an accessible omakase. Friendly service and a broad menu make it easy for groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hamachi Carpaccio (truffle oil), A5 Wagyu Beef Roll, Omakase (chef’s choice)
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Wide-ranging menu with both premium nigiri and playful rolls.
Who should go: Mixed groups with varied tastes
When to visit: Late lunch or early dinner to avoid waits
What to order: Hamachi carpaccio, A5 wagyu roll, omakase
Insider tip: Ask for daily premium nigiri—availability shifts with market fish.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Hayes Valley can be competitive, especially evenings—metered spots nearby, limited after 6pm. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and sneakers fine, but many guests dress slightly up for Hayes Valley nights.
Noise level: Moderate—buzz from groups but still workable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer for groups of 4+
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or 5–10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable rolls, tofu dishes, and salads available
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 maki options and veggie starters, but no dedicated menu
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free soy sauce available on request, nigiri and sashimi safe options
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—upbeat but not too loud, approachable menu, and shareable rolls make it easy and fun for conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common, especially at lunch or early dinner, but peak evenings may require a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like sushi; space is tight and menu leans toward adult palates, so best for ages 8+.
Best For
Better for: Groups who want both classic nigiri and playful rolls in one spot.
Skip if: You’re seeking a hushed, high-end omakase—other Hayes Valley spots like Robin fit that niche better.