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oChef » Tekka – San Francisco
Tekka - San Francisco
Photo from Tekka
Tekka at a glance
San Francisco Richmond District
- 🍣 Japanese Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $61–$70
mentioned by 15 of the guests
#1864 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#154 Japanese Restaurant out of 174 in San Francisco
Good
6.7 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
293
Reviews
60.1%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Sushi quality
- Chef interaction
- Good value
Frequently criticized
- Long waits
- Service inconsistency
- Cash only
The restaurant Tekka is a welcoming Japanese Restaurant located in San Francisco’s vibrant Richmond District. When you step inside, you’ll find a casual atmosphere perfect for a relaxed dinner.
This spot is known for its healthy options, making it a great choice if you’re looking for nutritious and delicious Japanese cuisine. You can also enjoy a selection of beer and other alcoholic beverages with your meal, enhancing your dining experience in this cozy neighborhood gem.
Overview: Introducting Tekka
Tekka offers a unique dining experience, often highlighted by its incredibly fresh sushi and a truly personal dining experience with the chef. Many appreciate the quality of the fish and the overall value it presents, making it a memorable visit for those who manage to get a seat.
However, be prepared for potential challenges. Guests frequently mention long waits to get in, and the establishment’s cash only policy can be an unexpected hurdle.
Some have also noted a less-than-welcoming demeanor from the sushi chef, which can impact the overall impression.
Good
6.7
out of 10
293
Reviews
60.1%
Satisfaction
73
negative
44
neutral
176
positive
Tekka holds a respectable overall score of 6.7, placing it in the “good” category, though customer satisfaction sits at a more mixed 60.1%. This suggests that while many find the experience positive, a notable portion of diners have reservations.
These insights are drawn from 293 customer opinions, with 176 positive observations and 73 negative ones, providing a solid foundation for understanding the restaurant’s performance. Delving deeper, the Food (7.7) clearly stands out as a strong point, consistently receiving high praise.
However, the Service (5.3) and Ambience (6.6) scores indicate areas where experiences can be inconsistent, often falling into the average range. The Value (6.9) also hovers around average, suggesting that while the food is appreciated, the overall package might not always meet everyone’s expectations for the price.
What people like
- Exceptional sushi quality
- Personalized chef interaction
- Good value for money
What people don't like
- Significant waiting times
- Inconsistent service demeanor
- Cash-only policy
Tekka, with a recommendation score of 7.3, is a place that truly shines for its culinary offerings and unique, personal touch. If you prioritize exceptional sushi and enjoy a cozy, intimate setting where you can connect with the chef, it’s certainly worth considering for your next meal.
However, be prepared for the practicalities. The experience often comes with considerable waits and a cash-only policy, which might not suit everyone.
It’s a destination for those willing to embrace its quirks for the reward of quality food and a memorable, if sometimes challenging, visit.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Tekka
Food (7.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 78% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this spot truly shines! With a good score of 7.7 and a good customer satisfaction of 76.3%, it's clear many diners are impressed. Based on 100 positive remarks out of 131 total, guests rave about the fresh fish, sashimi, and nigiri, often highlighting the monstrous portions that offer great value.
However, not every bite is perfect. While generally positive, 19 comments point to areas for improvement. Some found the fish quality mediocre or specific items like fatty fish and ikura to taste fishy, with concerns also raised about the rice being sour or mushy.
Food
131
Reviews
76%
Satisfaction
19
negative
12
neutral
100
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Fresh, delicious fish
- Generous portion sizes
- Authentic Japanese food
What people don't like
- Sour, mushy rice
- Some fish tasted fishy
- Inconsistent item quality
Often praised
- sushimakes the best sushi this side of the Mississippi
- nigiriMy experience at the restaurant was marked by a grumpy sushi chef who, despite his demeanor, prepared huge quality nigiri. There was no wait, and although we weren't regulars, we were still able to order from the menu.
- fishall of the fish was rich and delicious
- sashimi comboIt's recommended to be shared between two people. It's a big plate with large slices of tuna, salmon, yellowtail, albacore tuna, scallop, octopus and seaweed salad. I'm tellin ya, it's the ocean on a plate!
- sashimiThis place has amaaazing nigiri and sashimi. Expect to spend about two hours waiting outside its closed doors to save your spot for the 7pm seating.
- sashimi platterI enjoyed the good quality sashimi and the cute atmosphere. The price was relatively cheap; my soft shell crab appetizer and sashimi platter for one came to less than $50 before tip. A key piece of advice for future visitors: bring cash and arrive before 6: 00pm to secure a seat, as waiting until 8: 00pm is otherwise likely.
- eel nigiriThe eel nigiri is also excellent.
- Japanese foodbest Japanese food I found in San Francisco!!
- eelTo say it was generous is an understatement. The eel was the freshest I've ever had, as was everything else. Of course, the two bottles of chilled sake didn't hurt!
- fresh sushiMy experience at this restaurant was centered around their fresh sushi, which was definitely worth the price. The establishment is owned by a husband and wife team.
Frequently criticized
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was disappointing due to the high prices for what I felt was very average food. While the sushi was acceptable, it's not worth the cost when there are so many superior and more affordable sushi options in San Francisco.
- MocchiMocchi is $6 for 2 pieces that taste somehow worse than grocery-store ice cream Mocchi
- eel nigirithe eel nigiri was poorly prepared
- fatty fishFatty fish.
- fish freshnessthe fish was not the freshest
- fish qualityThe fish quality was mediocre
- fish to rice ratioToo much fish compare to the rice
- ikuraI think this is where I thought the quality could've been better. Maybe the ikura wasn't brined or cured long enough or something, but they tasted pretty fishy. Similarly, the saba was also slightly on the fishy side.
- negi hama rollThe sashimi portions were massive, but the fish quality was mediocre, and the eel nigiri was poorly prepared with chewy skin. The rice was sour and mushy, and the negi hama roll fell apart. It was NOT worth the wait, and I will NEVER be going back.
- off-menu appetizersThe wait was expected. However, we witnessed regulars being prioritized, with one regular even getting off-menu appetizers while we were limited to the basic menu. When asked about off-menu items, we were told they were only for regulars.
If youre seeking generous portions of fresh, authentic Japanese food and dont mind the occasional inconsistency, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that some specific items might not hit the mark for everyone, particularly if you're sensitive to fishiness or rice texture.
Service (5.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 78% of the guests
Many guests highlight the charming couple running the restaurant and the chef/owner , praising the great conversation and personal dining experience they offer. Out of 88 total comments on service, 31 were positive, often making the experience feel unique. The service score sits at an average 5.3, indicating some positive aspects.
However, the service experience isn't always smooth sailing. A significant 38 negative comments point to issues like long wait times, bad service , and staff being rude or disrespectful to people’s time . This is reflected in a rather poor customer satisfaction of just 35.2%, suggesting that while some find charm, many face considerable frustration.
Service
88
Reviews
35%
Satisfaction
38
negative
19
neutral
31
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Personal chef interaction
- Charming owner couple
- Engaging conversation
What people don't like
- Long wait times
- Rude staff attitude
- Unclear seating process
Often praised
- waitI found the sushi to be the best in the city, described as very authentic and no nonsense. It was an amazing experience that was worth the wait.
- experienceDinner here was an experience
- dining experiencethe chef makes the dining experience very personal
- peopleWhat an incredible experience! We got sooooo lucky that the other resto was closed, that Tekka was open, that people generously made room for us! When we finally left, there were enough people who'd been waiting outside for about 45 minutes to fill the restaurant again.
- ChefChef was really friendly
- NobuChat with Nobu a little, he'll definitely make you laugh
- chef/ownerconversation from the chef/owner
- conversationhappy to share if you strike-up a good conversation
- couplelovely couple who still personally buy, prep, cook
- couple running itMy experience at this restaurant was quite charming. The place and the couple running it were so cute. The menu and the establishment itself are small, which makes sense as it's run by only two elderly people.
Frequently criticized
- waiting timemy darling got there at 3:30 just to secure the spot. The next people showed up at 4:20. Then the whole line formed by 4:40. They finished prep and opened the door at 7
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant was marked by mid food that was paired with plain mean service. The establishment also had an awful customer base that seemed to reflect the poor service.
- sushi chefMy experience at the restaurant was marked by a grumpy sushi chef who, despite his demeanor, prepared huge quality nigiri. There was no wait, and although we weren't regulars, we were still able to order from the menu.
- waitThe rice was sour and mushy, and the negi hama roll fell apart. It was NOT worth the wait, and I will NEVER be going back. We arrived at 7: 20 pm on a Friday and were told there would be a second seating around 8: 30 or 9 pm.
- attitudeher attitude was unapologetic
- back up planhave a back up plan nearby
- bad servicebad service! The sushi guy told us to "get out"
- closure informationI arrived and saw a sign that was posted before Labor Day. It was unclear if they were closed for Labor Day and open on Tuesday, or if they were also closed on Tuesday and then open Wednesday. I ended up wasting 2 hours waiting for this spot, and it was all for nothing.
- customer serviceactually quite the opposite sometimes
- customer treatmentclear caste system for customers
If youre seeking a unique, personal dining experience and are prepared for potentially long wait times and inconsistent service, this spot might be for you. Be ready for a charming interaction with the chef/owner , but also brace yourself for possible frustrations with the wait and overall customer treatment. Its a gamble, but for some, the reward is worth it.
Ambience (6.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 64% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot offers a truly unique vibe. With a score of 6.6, it leans towards a good experience, often described as a charming hole in the wall with an intimate experience and a cozy traditional 10 seater setup. Many of the 29 positive opinions highlight its authentic atmosphere and traditional Japanese culture, making it feel like a special, old-school place.
However, customer satisfaction sits at a mixed 59.2%, indicating some areas for improvement. Based on 11 negative comments, the small size is a recurring theme, leading to cramped seating and a feeling that it's only suitable for small groups. Some found the seating limited, and a few even mentioned it could get cold by the door.
Ambience
49
Reviews
59%
Satisfaction
11
negative
9
neutral
29
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Intimate experience
- Cozy traditional
- Authentic atmosphere
What people don't like
- Cramped seating
- Limited seats
- Small groups only
Often praised
- atmosphereMy experience at this restaurant was positive overall. I enjoyed the good quality sashimi and the cute atmosphere. The price was relatively cheap; my soft shell crab appetizer and sashimi platter for one came to less than $50 before tip.
- placeThe menu and place is small but makes sense since it is run by only two elderly people.
- experienceThe nigiri was ENORMOUS, and the rolls were simple. Be prepared for a leisurely meal, as it's cash only and takes a while, but it's worth it to just breathe and enjoy the experience. Chatting with Nobu was a highlight; he's sure to make you laugh.
- bar seatingSeated at the bar, you get to watch in anticipation
- cleaningThe restaurant remains closed during the time between seatings. After serving, the master's wife personally cleans the room. Only then does the next round of guests get their turn.
- cozy traditional 10 seaterJimmy and his mom runs this restaurant Tuesday-Friday. It’s a cozy traditional 10 seater Japanese sushi restaurant hence its’s difficult to get a table! It’s walk-in only but sometimes the owner will allow you to reserve if you’re a frequent comer and become friends with the owner/chef.
- environmentCozy environment~
- hand written love noteshand written love notes all over the restaurant as decor
- hole in the wallIt's a hole in the wall
- intimate experienceA very intimate experience.
Frequently criticized
- seatingCramped seating
- ambienceBeware, it can get cold in there. At least by the door.
- atmosphereMy experience at this restaurant was terrible all around. I will definitely not go to this place again.
- closed on weekendsThis restaurant seems to want to keep a low profile, as they are closed on weekends. Even during the week, my attempts to visit were met with constant rejection, leaving me wondering, "what's wrong with you?
- customer baseMy experience at this restaurant was marked by mid food that was paired with plain mean service. The establishment also had an awful customer base that seemed to reflect the poor service.
- embarrassingI was so embarassing with all the guests sitting there!
- placethe whole place can fit 10-12 people
- seatyou weren't going to get a seat
- seatsTotal 10 seats in the restaurant.
- small groupsSmall groups only.
If youre seeking a truly intimate, traditional Japanese dining experience and dont mind a cozy, potentially cramped space, this place could be a hidden gem for you. However, if you prefer spacious dining or are with a larger group, you might find the limited seating and small environment a dealbreaker.
Value (6.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 39% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot generally hits the mark! Many customers rave about the reasonable prices and excellent affordability, often finding the bill surprisingly low for the quality received. With 16 positive remarks out of 25 total, its clear that many feel its definitely worth every penny, contributing to a solid average score of 6.9 and a mixed customer satisfaction of 64%.
However, not everyone is thrilled. A few voices, 5 to be exact, point out that it can feel overpriced for what you get, especially for average food. The biggest sticking point for some seems to be the cash only policy, which can lead to awkward situations if you're not prepared.
Value
25
Reviews
64%
Satisfaction
5
negative
4
neutral
16
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Prices are reasonable
- Offers great value
- Quality is affordable
What people don't like
- Cash only payment
- Some find overpriced
Often praised
- priceMy experience at this restaurant was centered around their fresh sushi, which was definitely worth the price. The establishment is owned by a husband and wife team.
- billThe bill came to about 72$
- valueVery good value and fun experience
- affordabilityincredibly affordable for portion sizes + quality
- pricesthe price are so reasonable
- value departmentTekka scores well in the value department
- 价廉物美Loved the grilled hamachi and eel nigiri 价廉物美
Frequently criticized
- cash onlyIt seems so exclusive but it's one of those rare, rare places that are worth the wait and this is the first time I've ever said that. CASH ONLY -- CASH ONLY -- CASH ONLY I cannot say this enough. We ordered a bit more than anticipated and was short $10 so I had to drive to an ATM while my friend had the awkward situation of waiting at the restaurant for my return of some cold hard cash.
- priceWay overpriced for very average food
- pricesMy experience at this restaurant was overwhelmingly negative. The sushi was terrible, and the prices were horribly expensive. I would advise against coming here at all costs, as the meal ended up hurting our stomachs.
If youre looking for good quality at a fair price and dont mind carrying cash, this place could be a real gem. Just be aware of the payment method, as it's a dealbreaker for some, and a few found the food average for the cost.
How are the prices at Tekka?
You’re looking at roughly 64 per person – reported by 15 diners. That puts it in the $61–$70 category. For a Japanese Restaurant, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Looking at what people actually spend, we see a pretty wide range. While some guests enjoy a more modest meal, a good number are opting for premium experiences, with 4 out of 15 spending over 101 $.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 15 reviews.
See how this restaurant’s value for money compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
Considering the average spend and the variety of price points, we think the pricing feels fair for a Japanese restaurant in San Francisco. It offers options for different budgets, from a casual bite to a more indulgent experience.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Tekka
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
3
Confusing Entry, Cramped Space, Just Okay Food
My experience at this restaurant was marked by confusion from the start. It was unclear how to line up to get in, and the seating was quite cramped. The food itself was just okay, nothing special.
Additionally, it's important to note that the restaurant is cash only.
- food5
- line up2
- seating3
- cash only3
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
1
Terrible Sushi, Horribly Expensive
My experience at this restaurant was overwhelmingly negative. The sushi was terrible, and the prices were horribly expensive. I would advise against coming here at all costs, as the meal ended up hurting our stomachs.
- sushi1
- prices1
- stomachs1
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
Awesome Food and Great Conversation!
My experience at this restaurant was AWESOME! My boyfriend and I ordered the tekka dinner for two and were delighted by the good food. We also had the pleasure of engaging in great conversation with the chef/owner.
- tekka dinner for two9
- good food9
- great conversation10
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
9
Friendly Chef, Worth the Wait
I used to live across the street and there was always a line out the door. I finally tried it on a night when the line was low. The Chef was really friendly and shared stories about San Francisco, having been there since the 1970s.
The overall experience was great.
- Chef10
- line6
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
1
Terrible Experience, Will Not Return
My experience at this restaurant was terrible all around. I will definitely not go to this place again. It certainly did not ruin all other SF sushi spots for me, and I will definitely not not be going back again.
- food1
- service1
- atmosphere1
What Tekka offers
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Beer
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Table service
Service Options
- Dine-in
Atmosphere
- Casual
FAQs
What kind of dining experience and offerings can you expect at Tekka Japanese Restaurant?
At Tekka Japanese Restaurant, you can look forward to a casual dinner experience with table service. They offer a variety of healthy options, alongside a selection of beer and other alcoholic beverages to complement your meal. It’s a straightforward and enjoyable spot in the Richmond District.
Where is Tekka Japanese Restaurant located and what payment methods are accepted?
Tekka Japanese Restaurant is conveniently situated at 537 Balboa St in San Francisco’s Richmond District. For your convenience, the restaurant accepts credit cards for all transactions, making your visit smooth and hassle-free.
How does Tekka generally perform according to customer feedback?
Tekka holds a “good” overall score of 6.7, with customer satisfaction at a “mixed” 60.1%. Its Food (7.7) is highly rated, while Service (5.3), Ambience (6.6), and Value (6.9) are considered average.
What should I know about visiting Tekka regarding payment and wait times?
Be aware that Tekka operates on a cash-only basis, and customers frequently report significant waiting times to secure a seat, sometimes for several hours.
What are the main draws for diners at Tekka?
Diners are primarily drawn to Tekka for its exceptional sushi quality and the personalized, intimate dining experience, often including friendly interactions with the chef.