Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
oChef » Kitaro – San Francisco
Kitaro - San Francisco
Photo from Kitaro
Kitaro at a glance
San Francisco Richmond District
- 🍣 Japanese Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 39 of the guests
#898 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#78 Japanese Restaurant out of 174 in San Francisco
Good
7.7 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
285
Reviews
79.6%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Fresh food
- Great value
Frequently criticized
- Service inconsistency
- Parking issues
The Japanese restaurant Kitaro in San Francisco’s Richmond District invites you to a cozy and casual dining experience. You can enjoy a variety of healthy options, perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed dinner.
Whether you’re looking for small plates, a full meal, or just a refreshing drink, this spot offers a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Overview: Introducting Kitaro
Kitaro offers a generally reliable experience, often praised for its fresh and delicious food, particularly the sushi , which comes in generous portions . Many appreciate the consistent quality and variety of Japanese options available.
However, some experiences highlight inconsistent service , especially during shift changes , where staff attentiveness can dip. There have also been minor issues with portion discrepancies compared to what’s advertised, which can be a point of frustration for some diners.
Good
7.7
out of 10
285
Reviews
79.6%
Satisfaction
38
negative
20
neutral
227
positive
Kitaro earns a solid overall score of 7.7 , reflecting a generally positive dining experience. Customer satisfaction stands at 79.6% , indicating that most patrons leave content.
This performance is built on a strong foundation of Food (8) and Value (8.1), which are clearly appreciated by many. While Service (7.1) is good, it occasionally faces criticism, as seen in 38 negative comments compared to 227 positive ones out of 285 total customer remarks.
The Ambience (6.6) is considered average, often described as cozy but sometimes noted for being a bit noisy or having limited space. The strong positive feedback for food and value largely drives the restaurant’s good standing.
What people like
- Fresh, delicious food
- Excellent value
- Generous portions
What people don't like
- Inconsistent service
- Parking challenges
- Portion discrepancies
If you’re seeking a Japanese meal that delivers on freshness and value , Kitaro is a strong contender. Its Recommendation Score of 8 suggests it’s a place many would happily revisit, especially for its well-regarded sushi and generous servings.
Just be mindful of potential service fluctuations, particularly during staff transitions, and confirm portion sizes if they’re a key factor for you. Overall, Kitaro offers a dependable and affordable option for your Japanese food cravings.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Kitaro
Food (8 out of 10)
mentioned by 96% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this spot generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 8 and a customer satisfaction rate of 83.4%, its clear that most diners are leaving happy. Based on 141 positive remarks out of 169 total, guests frequently praise the freshness, taste, and generous portion sizes, highlighting the overall quality of the Japanese dishes.
However, its not without a few minor hiccups. The 16 negative comments occasionally mention issues like rolls not being fully cut, dry chicken teriyaki, or sashimi portions being smaller than expected. While these are noted, they appear to be isolated incidents rather than widespread concerns.
Food
169
Reviews
83%
Satisfaction
16
negative
12
neutral
141
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Fresh, tasty food
- Generous portion sizes
- Consistent quality
What people don't like
- Dry chicken teriyaki
- Small sashimi portions
- Rolls not cut well
Often praised
- foodOur old stand by, always reliable food and service. Just be careful of the staff at 2: 30 PM shift change; the wait staff eats and is off the clock, they will ignore you and the cook will come out of the kitchen to wait tables.
- sushiMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic! I enjoyed their delicious, fresh sushi. They also offer tons of great Japanese options if sushi isn't your preference.
- freshfood here are always fresh
- portionsThe portions were large
- qualityThe service was some of the best I've ever encountered, and the sushi was incredibly fresh. I was also impressed by the prices, which are the best I've seen in California for the quality offered. While it's not a 5-star omakase experience, it perfectly satisfies any sushi craving.
- amount of foodgetting about 4X the amount of food
- bento boxesbento boxes come with a little salad and miso soup
- deliciousAll fresh and delicious
- portion sizereally good portion size for the price
- rollsorder a few rolls in addition
Frequently criticized
- chicken teriyakiChicken terryiaki is simply cut up chicken thighs with dribbles of terryiaki dry no flavor
- rollsrolls are wrapped in too much rice
- CA rolls add-onflyer says 8 pcs CA rolls add-on, but it's really 6 pcs
- Chicken Katsu mealsent me Chicken Teriyaki meals
- Chicken Teriyaki mealssent me Chicken Teriyaki meals
- assorted sashimi comboeach piece is so small and so thin
- correct fooddeliver me the correct food that was ordered
- edamameheated top/ice cold bottom, over salted edamame
- foodfood was bad too
- gluten-free soy sauce alternativeThey do not have any gluten free soy sauce alternative
If youre craving fresh, tasty Japanese food with good portions, this place is definitely worth a visit. While there might be an occasional minor inconsistency, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests youll likely leave satisfied and full.
Service (7.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 63% of the guests
The service here generally hits the mark, earning a 7.1 score, which is quite good! Many customers, in 37 positive remarks out of 54 total, rave about the friendly staffs, quick service, and attentive servers who ensure orders come out fast and efficiently. Youll often find the wait staff welcoming and well-trained, contributing to a great experience.
However, the customer satisfaction is a bit more mixed at 68.5%, suggesting theres room for improvement. About 14 negative comments point to issues like inconsistent staff at 2:30 PM shift change, aggressive tipping demands, and occasional horrible customer service, which can leave a sour taste if you catch them at the wrong time.
Service
54
Reviews
68%
Satisfaction
14
negative
3
neutral
37
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Quick, efficient service
- Great customer experience
What people don't like
- Inconsistent shift change
- Aggressive tipping demands
- Horrible customer service
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this Japanese restaurant in San Francisco was outstanding. I found it to be the best Japanese restaurant in the city, offering great service and truly delicious food. What's more, it's also very affordable.
- staffwonderful staff who remember locals
- attentivestaff is attentive
- customer servicegreat customer service
- experienceI've never had a bad experience here
- friendlystaff is friendly
- friendly staffsassured by their well trained and friendly staffs
- good serviceGood service
- great customer serviceprovide great customer service
- ordersThe orders came very quickly.
Frequently criticized
- serviceOur old stand by, always reliable food and service. Just be careful of the staff at 2: 30 PM shift change; the wait staff eats and is off the clock, they will ignore you and the cook will come out of the kitchen to wait tables.
- couponThey said they couldn’t which is weird
- customer serviceHorrible customer service
- phone callcalled them which had no message saying we were closed
- refundresponded with deal with Doordash and they will deal with a refund
- serverthis server is not good for business
- serversBoth servers need to work their attitude and smile
- staff at 230pm shift changestaff at 230pm shift change, the wait staff eats and is off the clock, they will ignore you
- take out orderThey made a mistake on a take out order
- tipaggressively insisted to leave a TIP
If you're looking for generally quick and friendly service, this place often delivers. Just be aware that some experiences highlight inconsistencies, particularly around shift changes or with specific servers, which might impact your visit.
Ambience (6.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 37% of the guests
When it comes to the vibe, this spot gets a 6.6 out of 10, landing it in the average but leaning positive range, with customer satisfaction at a 60.9% mixed bag. Out of 23 total comments, 14 were positive, highlighting an authentic establishment with happy vibes and a great location. Many also loved the lots of seats available.
However, 6 negative comments point to some areas for improvement. Guests sometimes struggled with parking in the area, and the space itself can feel a bit small. Its also worth noting that it can get quite noisy' when the restaurant is at full capacity.
Ambience
23
Reviews
60%
Satisfaction
6
negative
3
neutral
14
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic, happy vibe
- Great, accessible location
- Ample seating available
What people don't like
- Parking can be tough
- Small, noisy space
Often praised
- atmosphereАтмосфера спокойная
- locationI've been a returning customer since before the pandemic and have never had a bad experience. I highly recommend this location if you're looking for affordable and tasty sushi.
- Lots of seatsLots of seats so you'll be able to come without a reservation
- accessvery easy to access via the 38 Muni bus
- ambianceMy experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. The place itself is pretty cozy, which was a nice atmosphere. They also offer low prices, making it an affordable option.
- authentic establishmentОтличное аутентичное заведение
- cleanlinessestablishment was also very clean
- everyday Japanese placeGood everyday Japanese place
- happy vibesreally happy vibes
- local spotGreat local spot
Frequently criticized
- parkingThe chicken teriyaki was delish. However, parking can be challenging in this area.
- better placesHowever, the food quality was only middle quality. Ultimately, despite the cozy ambiance and low prices, I wouldn't come back because there are a lot of better places around.
- noiseIt can be noisy when is at full capacity
- restaurantyou arrive there and it said closed
- spaceThe space is really small, I think they have less than a dozen tables that barely seat four each.
If you're seeking an authentic, accessible spot with a generally good atmosphere and plenty of seating, this place could be a great fit. Just be prepared for potential parking challenges and a potentially noisy, cozy space, especially during peak hours.
Value (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 57% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot truly shines with a good score of 8.1 and an impressive 89.7% customer satisfaction! Based on 39 customer remarks, with 35 overwhelmingly positive, guests consistently rave about the affordable prices and great value. Many highlight the excellent lunch specials, combo deals, and overall budget-friendly options, ensuring you get serious bang for your buck.
However, its not entirely without its quirks. A couple of the 39 remarks did mention concerns about dishonest practices, specifically feeling overcharged regarding the tip. While these instances are few, its something to keep in mind when settling your bill.
Value
39
Reviews
89%
Satisfaction
2
negative
2
neutral
35
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Affordable prices
- Great value
- Lunch specials
What people don't like
- Tipping concerns
- Dishonest practices
Often praised
- priceIt was very easy to access via the 38 Muni bus. I enjoyed the good food which was also at a very reasonable price. I will definitely be coming back!
- affordableThe only minor issue was that the flyer advertised 8 pieces for the California roll add-on, but we actually received 6 pieces. Overall, the experience was better than expected, with good taste, large portions, and an affordable price.
- pricesThe place itself is pretty cozy, which was a nice atmosphere. They also offer low prices, making it an affordable option. However, the food quality was only middle quality.
- valueGreat value, descent taste and quick, friendly service!
- 18 dollars18 dollars ha,yasuiiiiiiiii
- 2-item combo2 items combo for about $19
- affordabilityaffordable
- affordable pricesMy experience at this Japanese restaurant was characterized by affordable prices and decent quality food. The service was just okay, described as 'meh, ' but I wasn't expecting much in that regard.
- bang for your buckAlot of bang for your buck
- budget-friendlyAnd even budget-friendly!
Frequently criticized
- dishonest practicesSuch dishonest practices
- tipovercharged me by giving themselves over 20% tip
If you're looking for a place that offers fantastic value and affordable prices, especially with their lunch specials, this restaurant is definitely worth checking out. Just be sure to double-check your bill for any unexpected tipping charges to ensure a smooth experience.
How are the prices at Kitaro?
You’re looking at roughly 29 per person – reported by 39 diners. That puts it in the $21–$30 category. For a Japanese Restaurant in San Francisco, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Most guests spend between 11 – 30 $, but a few also opt for more premium experiences, showing a nice range of choices.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 39 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Overall, we think the pricing here feels quite fair for a Japanese restaurant in San Francisco. It offers good value for a mid-range experience, with options for different budgets.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Kitaro
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Short (6–15 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Amazing Sushi, Fast Service, Great Value!
My experience at this sushi spot was fantastic! The service was extremely fast and kind, with a wonderful staff who remember locals 💗. The food was also great.
What's more, the price is amazing for the quality you receive. Thank you Kitaro 🤗
- service10
- staff10
- food9
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Loud
8
Kitaro: Still Good After All These Years
Kitaro has been a long-standing establishment in the Richmond district, dating back to the early 90s when it was located on the north side of Geary, next to the municipal parking lot. Since the founding owner sold it, it has moved to the opposite side, on the south side, and the food remains equally good. The lunch specials are a great deal, with a 2-item combo for about $19.
Sashimi portions are generous and fresh. The Chicken Karaage is juicy and crunchy. However, the Beef Teriyaki is just so-so; the beef could benefit from a longer sear to achieve that charred crispness that would complement the sweet teriyaki sauce.
It can get noisy when the restaurant is at full capacity.
- lunch specials9
- 2-item combo9
- Sashimi portions9
- noise4
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
Noise Level
- Quiet
7
Disappointing Service Despite Long-Time Patronage
I've been a loyal customer for over a decade, and while the other servers are exceptional and the reason I keep returning, my recent lunch experience was marred by one particular server. This lady server seemed to think that asking for wasabi and ginger was unreasonable. She sensed my disappointment and aggressively insisted on leaving a tip before we had even finished eating.
This server is not good for business; I urge you to address this issue as the other staff are outstanding.
- other servers10
- wasabi and ginger2
- server1
- tip2
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Amazing Food, Service, and Vibes!
My experience at this restaurant was amazing! I arrived feeling a bit down but left feeling like the happiest person. The service was delightful, and the food was incredibly flavorful.
My little one even said the garlic edamame was the best they'd ever had. The sushi was fresh, and the portion sizes were good. I definitely recommend this place for its good food and genuinely happy vibes.
- service10
- food10
- garlic edamame10
Price per Person
- $61–$70
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Excellent Authentic Restaurant Experience
My experience at this restaurant was excellent. It's a truly authentic establishment with delicious and satisfying food, including sushi and udon. Everything was tasty, from the salads to the soups and meat dishes.
The staff was attentive, helpful, and polite. The atmosphere was calm, and the setting was simple. I highly recommend it, especially for vegetarians as there are vegetarian options and a dedicated menu section.
- authentic establishment9
- food10
- sushi9
What Kitaro offers
Crowd
- Groups
- College students
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Healthy options
- Wine
- Beer
- Small plates
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
FAQs
Is Kitaro accessible for all guests?
Yes, Kitaro ensures a welcoming experience for everyone. You will find a wheelchair accessible entrance and seating, making it easy for all patrons to enjoy their meal comfortably.
Is Kitaro a good choice for families with children?
Absolutely! Kitaro is considered good for kids and provides high chairs, making it a convenient and comfortable dining option for families looking to enjoy Japanese cuisine together.
How does Kitaro generally perform?
Kitaro receives a good overall score of 7.7, with customer satisfaction at 79.6%. Its strengths lie in Food (8) and Value (8.1), while Service (7.1) is good and Ambience (6.6) is considered average.
What are the food highlights at Kitaro?
Customers frequently praise Kitaro for its fresh and delicious sushi , noting the generous portions and overall quality of the Japanese options available.
Are there any service or value concerns at Kitaro?
Some customers have noted inconsistent service , particularly during shift changes , and occasional portion discrepancies or dishonest practices regarding advertised items.