0 Followers
Potto
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Potto
8.1
Modern Japanese nabe spot with individual hot pots, quick pacing, and a compact menu of udon and donburi that works for efficient daytime meet-ups. Reservations are straightforward and tables accommodate small teams without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wagyu sukiyaki nabe, Hamachi kama, Gyutama udon
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Individual nabe setups plus concise udon/donburi for swift lunches.
Who should go: Teams wanting interactive hot pot without formality
When to visit: Early lunch window for fastest seating and service
What to order: Wagyu sukiyaki, hamachi kama, gyutama udon
Insider tip: Ask for induction burners with higher heat if you like a faster boil.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available along Market and 16th, metered until 6pm; no valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Smart casual; office attire or neat streetwear both fit comfortably.
Noise level: Moderate — steady lunch chatter but still easy to hold a business conversation.
Weekend wait: Typically 30–40 minutes without reservation during peak evening hours.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait before 12:15pm; brief queue after 12:30.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tofu and vegetable hot pots plus udon options.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of dishes can be made vegan on request by omitting egg or broth.
Gluten-free options: Partial — rice bowls are safe, but most broths and noodles contain soy-based gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you enjoy interactive dining; the individual hot pots create conversation and a casual pace without awkward pauses.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for lunch — they turn tables quickly and hold several two-tops for walk-ins. Dinner reservations recommended for groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — older kids who can manage hot pots safely will enjoy it, but space is tight and not ideal for strollers or toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Quick, interactive Japanese lunches where everyone can customize their own meal without sacrificing speed.
Skip if: You prefer long, plated meals or need extensive vegan/gluten-free selections.
Potto
8.0
Cozy Castro newcomer specializing in nabe and comforting rice and noodle sets. Service is warm, portions are fair, and the broths carry clean, balanced flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Beef shabu-shabu, Katsu curry rice, Udon with tempura
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Nabe-focused menu with clean, restorative broths.
Who should go: Comfort-seeking Japanese cuisine fans
When to visit: Early dinner to avoid peak waits
What to order: Shabu-shabu, katsu curry, udon
Insider tip: Broth refills are available—ask to extend the meal.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Castro and 18th is limited; best luck after 8pm or on nearby side streets.
Dress code: Casual but tidy—locals often come straight from work or neighborhood errands.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is easy over gentle background chatter and kitchen sounds.
Weekend wait: 35–50 minutes without reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—broths and rice sets can be customized; tofu-based nabe is popular.
Vegan options: Limited—vegetable nabe can be modified, but broth bases typically include dashi.
Gluten-free options: Yes—request tamari instead of soy sauce; most rice and broth dishes are adaptable.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—quiet enough for conversation with warm lighting and a cozy layout that feels intimate without pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes if you come before 6:30pm; after that, expect to join a short waitlist, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—staff are accommodating, portions are shareable, and the menu includes mild, comforting dishes that suit children.
Best For
Better for: Home-style Japanese comfort foods and broths with a personal touch—ideal when you want warmth over flash.
Skip if: You’re seeking omakase sushi or high-end Japanese fine dining; this is a relaxed comfort spot, not a showpiece experience.