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Toyama Japanese Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Toyama Japanese Restaurant
7.8
Energetic neighborhood staple with a large menu and late closing hours. Good for low-key dates sharing a chirashi and a specialty roll without breaking the bank.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chirashi deluxe, Dragon roll, Uni nigiri (market)
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: Late hours and broad sushi selection ideal for spontaneous plans.
Who should go: Night-owl sushi sharers
When to visit: After 9pm to avoid peak dinner rush
What to order: Chirashi; dragon roll; uni nigiri
Insider tip: Ask for extra ginger and wasabi—no charge, shareable.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be difficult after 6pm. Consider using nearby public parking lots.
Dress code: Casual, but smart-casual is recommended. Jeans and a nice shirt are fine, though some diners prefer a slightly dressier look.
Noise level: Moderate - can hear your date, but there is a lively atmosphere.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetarian sushi and tempura options available.
Vegan options: Limited - a few options like veggie rolls and miso soup.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free soy sauce available and separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, Toyama offers a relaxed atmosphere with an energetic vibe. The casual yet lively setting works well for first dates, especially if you're looking for a low-pressure, fun environment.
Can I get a table without a reservation? You can, but expect to wait, especially on weekends. For a more seamless experience, reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend dinners.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, though the ambiance is more suited for adults and casual dates. Toyama can accommodate families, but be aware that it tends to be a bit lively, so younger children may not enjoy the noise.
Best For
Better for: Late-night dining with a broad menu at an affordable price. Ideal for casual, spontaneous date nights.
Skip if: Looking for a quiet, intimate setting or high-end sushi experience, as Toyama leans more towards casual dining with an energetic atmosphere.
Toyama Japanese Restaurant
7.6
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Late Night Legends
Old-school neighborhood standby turning out affordable, straightforward rolls late into the evening. Consistent pacing and friendly service make it a reliable weeknight fix.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dragon Roll, Double Hamachi Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Budget-friendly rolls with late hours for the neighborhood.
Who should go: Value hunters and late-night diners
When to visit: After 9pm for easy parking and seats
What to order: Dragon; Double Hamachi; Spicy Tuna
Insider tip: Call ahead for takeout—orders queue quickly after 7pm.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Geary and adjacent residential blocks is generally available after 8pm, though it can be tight before then. No dedicated lot or valet service.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies, jeans, and sneakers are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate buzz from regulars and takeout calls, but easy to hold a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes for tables after 7pm; faster for counter seating.
Weekday lunch: No wait—steady flow but quick turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several veggie rolls like avocado, cucumber, and veggie tempura are staples.
Vegan options: Limited – a few maki options without fish or mayo, but sauces may contain egg or soy.
Gluten-free options: Partial – sushi rice and sashimi are safe, but soy sauce contains gluten; bring your own GF soy if needed.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re going for casual comfort—think easy conversation over shared rolls rather than romance or atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Toyama doesn’t take reservations. Walk-ins are the norm, especially after 8pm when turnover is quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families frequent it for affordable rolls and quick service. High chairs and booster seats are available upon request.
Best For
Better for: Late-night sushi runs on a budget and relaxed, no-frills dining.
Skip if: You’re looking for premium fish quality, omakase experiences, or sleek interiors—head to Kabuto or Sushi Bistro instead.
Toyama Japanese Restaurant
8.0
Long-running Ingleside sushi standby with a broad menu—from nigiri and sashimi to ramen and bento—at fair prices. Reliable takeout and late hours keep it popular with nearby students and families.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nigiri Combo (chef’s choice), Spicy Tuna Roll, Chicken Katsu Donburi
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Dependable neighborhood sushi with generous portions and hours.
Who should go: Casual sushi fans and families
When to visit: Early evening before the dinner rush
What to order: Nigiri combo; spicy tuna roll; salmon sashimi
Insider tip: Order online for quicker pickup during peak hours.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited street parking on Ocean Avenue; meters during the day, but easier after 6pm. No dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual; neighborhood sushi spot where jeans and hoodies are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate—can comfortably hold a conversation even during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes without reservation; quicker for takeout orders.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; plenty of seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—avocado, cucumber, and veggie rolls plus tofu dishes.
Vegan options: Limited—some rolls and appetizers can be customized; no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes—sashimi and select rolls; soy sauce substitutions available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual meetup than a romantic first date; it’s cozy and low-pressure but not atmosphere-driven.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, reservations aren’t required; just show up early on weekends to avoid a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families frequent the restaurant; staff are accommodating, and the menu has cooked items for kids.
Best For
Better for: Reliable sushi takeout and casual dine-in without downtown prices or pretension.
Skip if: You’re looking for omakase-level presentation or premium fish selections—this is a comfort-oriented neighborhood spot.