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Sushi Sato
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sushi Sato
8.0
Dim-lit Post Street spot with a whiskey bar and showy, torch-kissed plates that photograph beautifully. The menu balances classic nigiri with a few composed bites built for the feed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Aburi salmon nigiri, Hamachi with yuzu, Chef’s omakase set
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Moody lighting and aburi finishes make plates pop on camera.
Who should go: Friends who love sushi and cocktails
When to visit: Weeknights after 9pm for bar seats
What to order: Aburi salmon; hamachi yuzu; omakase
Insider tip: Ask the bar for a whiskey highball to pair with aburi.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive in the Tenderloin/Lower Nob Hill area, especially after 6pm. No valet on-site—ride-shares are recommended.
Dress code: Smart casual—dark jeans and a nice top work, but many guests lean dressy for the moody, bar-like setting.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversations are possible at the bar but can be raised during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though lunch hours are less popular than evenings.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian rolls and a few composed dishes available.
Vegan options: Limited—about 2–3 options; check with staff for modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free soy sauce available and some rolls can be prepared without tempura or sauces containing gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The dim lighting, stylish bar, and dramatic plating make it a strong first-date choice—intimate yet energetic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can, but bar seats are your best bet. Arrive after 9pm on weeknights for the highest chance without a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children—focused on cocktails and late-night energy. Teens who enjoy sushi may be fine, but there are no child-specific amenities.
Best For
Better for: Great for photo-worthy aburi dishes and a whiskey-sushi pairing that few competitors match.
Skip if: If you want quiet dining, family-friendly service, or an extensive traditional omakase experience, choose alternatives instead.
Sushi Sato
8.0
The livelier sibling to the omakase counter offers premium nigiri, sashimi, and hot/cold plates with a strong whisky program. It’s upscale without the formality of a tasting-only format, ideal for a polished night out.
Must-Try Dishes:
Negi toro roll, Chawanmushi with uni, Crab miso risotto
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Premium sushi with à la carte flexibility and a deep whisky list.
Who should go: Upscale sushi fans skipping fixed menus
When to visit: Early evening for best seat selection
What to order: Uni chawanmushi, negi toro, sashimi platter
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu toro or uni selections when available.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Lower Nob Hill after 6pm; nearby paid garages on Bush and Pine usually have space.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine if paired with a nice shirt or jacket; most diners lean dressy for evenings.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing atmosphere but you can hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; bar seats may open sooner.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service—dinner only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable rolls, tofu dishes, and small plates available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 vegetable rolls and sides can be prepared vegan upon request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many sashimi and grilled items are naturally gluten-free; soy sauce alternatives available on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the stylish but relaxed setting and à la carte sushi make it an approachable luxury choice without the formality of omakase.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible, but expect a wait on weekends; your best bet is arriving early or grabbing bar seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—better suited for adults; no kids’ menu and the lively bar program makes it more of a date-night or group spot.
Best For
Better for: Ideal if you want high-end sushi without committing to a fixed tasting menu; the whisky list is stronger than most Japanese spots nearby.
Skip if: If you’re seeking a quiet, chef-led omakase progression, opt for Sato Omakase next door instead.