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Robin
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Robin
8.9
Contemporary omakase led by chef Adam Tortosa (since 2017) known for luxe, artful plating and seasonal Edomae technique. Locals book it for special-occasion sushi that photographs beautifully without feeling stiff.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ensui uni with caviar, O-toro nigiri with aged soy, Konbujime local fish
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Choose-your-price omakase with dramatic, highly photogenic plating.
Who should go: Omakase fans and special-occasion diners
When to visit: Book late seatings after 8:30pm for calmer service
What to order: Omakase progression; uni with caviar; o-toro
Insider tip: Tell the team your preferred price point up front to tailor the experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Hayes Valley, especially after 6pm; nearby paid garages on Gough and Hayes are the most reliable options.
Dress code: Smart casual—stylish but not overly formal; most guests lean dressy for the omakase experience.
Noise level: Moderate; lively buzz but you can comfortably hold a date-night conversation.
Weekend wait: Reservations are required; walk-ins are rarely accommodated.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable—Robin is dinner only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited accommodations; some seasonal vegetable courses can be substituted by request.
Vegan options: Not recommended—menu is seafood-driven with minimal vegan alternatives.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free soy sauce available; inform staff in advance for substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Robin’s intimate omakase and artful plating create a memorable, high-impact first date setting without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely—reservations are essential, especially on weekends. Book online well in advance.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children; the format is long and seafood-focused. Teens with adventurous palates may enjoy it.
Best For
Better for: Robin excels at highly photogenic, luxe omakase that feels contemporary and approachable compared to more traditional, formal sushi counters.
Skip if: If you’re seeking à la carte sushi, a short casual meal, or a budget-friendly option, consider alternatives in the neighborhood.
Robin
8.9
Chef Adam Tortosa’s modern omakase balances pristine fish with creative, California-driven touches. A polished, personalized progression makes it a destination for celebratory sushi in Hayes Valley.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bluefin toro nigiri, Hokkaido uni over warm rice, Crab chawanmushi
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 9
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Personalized omakase with top-tier sourcing and California creativity.
Who should go: Sushi devotees and celebratory diners
When to visit: Midweek seatings for calmer pacing
What to order: Omakase progression; toro; uni
Insider tip: Let the team steer your budget—courses scale to your preferences.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Hayes Valley is limited after 6pm; closest paid garage is on Gough & Grove (~5-minute walk).
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; blazers or chic dresses fit the tone, but polished jeans are acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate; intimate enough for conversation though energy rises with full seatings.
Weekend wait: Reservations are essential; walk-ins rarely accommodated.
Weekday lunch: Closed at lunch; only open for dinner seatings.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Possible with advance notice; kitchen can substitute vegetable-focused courses.
Vegan options: Very limited; not recommended for strict vegans.
Gluten-free options: Yes—staff can tailor omakase to be gluten-free with substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its polished setting, attentive service, and elegant sushi progression make it memorable and intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely; the omakase format requires advance booking. Call ahead for cancellations, but walk-ins are rare.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children; menu and pacing suit adults or mature teens celebrating special occasions.
Best For
Better for: Robin excels at personalized omakase experiences where the chef tailors progression to your budget and tastes.
Skip if: Skip if you want à la carte sushi, casual dining, or quick service—other spots in Japantown or the Mission are better suited.
Robin
8.8
Contemporary omakase with a choose-your-price format and polished service in a stylish Hayes Valley room. Fish quality and creative courses make it a destination for special nights and pre-show dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase nigiri progression, Uni-topped wagyu on crispy nori chip, Chef’s seasonal sashimi flights
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Personalized omakase with top-grade seafood in a design-forward space.
Who should go: Omakase fans and date-night diners
When to visit: Weeknights 5–7pm for smoother reservations
What to order: Omakase; premium nigiri; seasonal specials
Insider tip: Prices are set per guest—discuss preferences to tailor the sequence.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Hayes Valley, especially after 6pm. A nearby paid garage at Hayes & Gough usually has spaces.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—jeans are fine if paired with a nice shirt or jacket.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing energy but still comfortable for date-night conversation.
Weekend wait: Reservations are strongly recommended; walk-ins can face 45–60 minute waits or be turned away.
Weekday lunch: Closed at lunch; opens evenings only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—chefs can adapt omakase with vegetable-based courses upon request.
Vegan options: Limited—possible with advance notice, but experience is seafood-driven.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free soy and rice-based substitutions available if noted ahead.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the stylish setting, personalized service, and elevated omakase make it an impressive but not overwhelming first-date choice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Not reliably. Weekend and prime-time tables book out in advance; bar seats may open last-minute but are rare.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal—menu format and atmosphere are tailored to adults. Best for diners 12+ who are comfortable with long meals.
Best For
Better for: Robin excels in curated omakase flexibility—you choose your budget tier, and the kitchen tailors a premium progression with creative flair.
Skip if: Skip if you’re seeking a casual sushi roll spot, à la carte ordering, or budget-friendly dining.