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Wako Japanese Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Wako Japanese Restaurant
7.6
Long-running Geary mainstay with big menus, shareable rolls, and easygoing energy. Not fancy, but reliable for an unfussy sushi date with generous portions and quick pacing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lion King roll, Rainbow roll, Sushi combo
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Decades-loved Richmond staple with big, shareable classic rolls.
Who should go: Casual dates who want large portions
When to visit: Later evenings after the early dinner rush
What to order: Lion King; rainbow roll; sushi combo
Insider tip: Split a couple of baked rolls—portions are substantial.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Geary or nearby side streets; metered spots turn over often after 7pm.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and sneakers are fine, but neat attire fits the date-night crowd.
Noise level: Moderate; lively energy but you can comfortably hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation during prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically seated immediately or within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plenty of vegetable rolls and tofu appetizers.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 vegetable rolls and edamame; sauces may contain mayo or fish stock.
Gluten-free options: Some options—sashimi and basic rolls are safe if you bring your own tamari.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want a relaxed, no-pressure sushi night. It’s casual enough to keep things easy but still feels social and upbeat.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes—walk-ins are common. Avoid 6:30–8:00pm weekends if you want to skip the short queue.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids; the space is bright and informal. Not ideal for toddlers during busy dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Group-friendly rolls, generous portions, and a laid-back Geary vibe.
Skip if: You’re looking for refined omakase or a quiet, candlelit setting.
Wako Japanese Restaurant
8.9
Refined, reservation-only sushi counter known for pristine fish and quiet, wood-accented design. Tasting-driven service and precise nigiri pacing make it a top choice for milestone dates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal omakase nigiri flight (otoro, kohada, akami), Sashimi moriawase, Chawanmushi with uni (seasonal)
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Meticulous, seasonally driven omakase with polished, intimate counter service.
Who should go: Serious sushi fans celebrating something
When to visit: Mid-week late seating for a calmer room
What to order: Omakase nigiri; sashimi set; seasonal chawanmushi
Insider tip: Book counter seats—cadence and chef interaction elevate the experience.
Wako Japanese Restaurant
9.0
Intimate omakase-led sushi where pristine cuts and seasonal dishes are the point. Locals book it for precise nigiri, calm service, and a focused dining room built for lingered conversations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s omakase nigiri flight, Chawanmushi with seasonal garnish, Sashimi selection (market fish)
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.9
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Seasonal omakase with meticulous sourcing and calm, minimalist hospitality.
Who should go: Sushi purists and quiet date nights
When to visit: Reserve evenings; midweek offers calmer pacing
What to order: Omakase; seasonal chawanmushi; sashimi flight
Insider tip: Counter seats provide the best view of knife work and pacing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Clement Street and side streets; can be competitive after 6pm, so plan extra time. No valet service offered.
Dress code: Smart casual; understated elegance fits the tone. Avoid gym wear—button-downs, dresses, or neat denim are appropriate.
Noise level: Low; serene enough for quiet conversation. The room maintains a hushed, respectful omakase atmosphere.
Weekend wait: Reservations required, often booked weeks in advance; no walk-in availability.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; dinner only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited; can accommodate upon request with advance notice—focus on vegetable tempura or omakase modifications.
Vegan options: Very limited; omakase is seafood-centric and not suited for strict vegan diets.
Gluten-free options: Yes, with notice—chef can adjust soy sauce and avoid cross-contamination when informed ahead.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—ideal for a refined, quiet first date where attention to detail and conversation matter. The intimate counter experience feels special without being flashy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No—reservations are essential, often 2–4 weeks out. Walk-ins are not accepted due to the fixed omakase format and limited seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended for young children. The tranquil dining pace and tasting structure cater to adults seeking focus and quiet.
Best For
Better for: Omakase purists seeking balance, seasonality, and restraint over theatrical presentation. Ideal for quiet luxury and deep craft appreciation.
Skip if: You prefer à la carte sushi, larger group energy, or quicker service—consider neighborhood spots like Ebisu or Akiko’s for flexibility.