Highlights
- Great tea selection
oChef » KUSAKABE – San Francisco
KUSAKABE - San Francisco
Photo from KUSAKABE
KUSAKABE at a glance
San Francisco Financial District
- 🍣 Japanese Restaurant
$$$
Price per Person $101+
mentioned by 111 of the guests
#559 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#58 Japanese Restaurant out of 174 in San Francisco
Excellent
8.1 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
690
Reviews
79.4%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Omakase
- Ambiance
- Service
Frequently criticized
- Price
- Pace
- Noise
The Japanese restaurant KUSAKABE in San Francisco’s Financial District offers you an exceptional dining experience. You’ll discover a culinary journey where every detail is meticulously crafted, from the artful presentation to the exquisite flavors.
This upscale establishment is particularly noted for its great tea selection, providing a perfect complement to your meal. Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening or a trendy spot, you’ll find the atmosphere both cozy and inviting.
Overview: Introducting KUSAKABE
KUSAKABE offers a distinctive dining journey where the artistry of Japanese tradition truly shines. Guests often commend the meticulously prepared cuisine and the refined atmosphere, which together create a memorable experience.
However, some diners have noted concerns regarding the overall cost and the sometimes rushed pace of the meal. Despite these points, the restaurant’s dedication to its craft is evident.
Many appreciate the attentive service and the unique culinary presentation, making it a noteworthy destination for those seeking a particular style of Japanese dining.
Excellent
8.1
out of 10
690
Reviews
79.4%
Satisfaction
109
negative
33
neutral
548
positive
KUSAKABE garners a commendable overall score of 8.1, reflecting a generally positive reception from its patrons. This is supported by a good Customer Satisfaction rate of 79.4%.
The restaurant’s strengths are clearly in its Food (8.5), which is frequently highlighted, alongside its attentive Service (8.1) and appealing Ambience (7.7). Based on 690 customer opinions, with 548 positive remarks against 109 negative ones, the feedback paints a picture of a place excelling in its core offerings.
While Value (5.6) registers as more average, many still find the experience worthwhile, balancing the higher price point with the quality delivered.
What people like
- Exceptional Omakase Cuisine
- Refined Japanese Ambiance
- Attentive, Precise Service
What people don't like
- High Price, Unclear Billing
- Rushed Dining Pace
- Occasional Ambiance Issues
If you’re seeking a focused omakase experience with a strong emphasis on culinary precision and traditional Japanese aesthetics, KUSAKABE is certainly worth considering. The 8.3 Recommendation Score suggests a high likelihood of satisfaction for those who prioritize food quality and a refined setting.
However, be prepared for a significant investment and potentially a brisk dining pace. While the food and service generally impress, those sensitive to noise or expecting a more leisurely, intimate setting might find certain aspects less ideal.
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Verdict: Our expert take on KUSAKABE
Food (8.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 98% of the guests
When it comes to the food, guests are generally thrilled, with an excellent score of 8.5 and a strong customer satisfaction of 85.6%. Out of 396 opinions, 339 rave about the incredible omakase experience, praising the premium ingredients, quality and creativity, and the delightful array of flavors and textures. However, not every bite is perfect.
A smaller number of 40 opinions noted issues like dishes being overly salty or too sweet. Some even reported finding a shell in the uni, and a few very concerning instances of food poisoning were mentioned, which is definitely something to consider.
Food
396
Reviews
85%
Satisfaction
40
negative
17
neutral
339
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Omakase experience
- Premium ingredients
- Diverse flavors, textures
What people don't like
- Food poisoning risk
- Flavor balance issues
- Shells in dishes
Often praised
- foodFrom the moment you walk in and are greeted by the staff and sushi chefs, to the servers meticulously clearing dishes and plates, you feel very welcomed. The food was so well prepared, fresh, and simply delicious. It was definitely one of the best sushi I've eaten in San Francisco and the Bay Area!
- sushiMy experience at this restaurant was an unforgettably delicious and special experience. The outstanding sushi was a highlight, with incredible flavors that delighted my palate. The service from start to finish was exceptional, making the entire dining experience truly memorable.
- Omakasethoroughly enjoyed every course and everything they had to offer in their Omakase
- omakaseKusakabe, San Francisco, is not just a restaurant; it's an omakase altar, a sanctuary where time stands still and Japanese tradition is elevated to an almost spiritual expression. It's the perfect intersection of technical precision and sensory emotion.
- dishesThe food was truly exceptional. Every dish was carefully crafted and elegantly presented, offering a range of delicate flavors and textures that impressed everyone in our group. The omakase journey was memorable, with standout courses like the uni that melted in the mouth and sparked admiration even from those in our party who are typically hesitant about raw seafood.
- fishThe rice: warm, exact, with that impossible balance between density and air. The fish: of such insulting freshness it seemed to still breathe the echo of the sea. The layers of umami, the barely hinted citrus notes, the precise stroke of wasabi.
- omakase experienceMy experience at this restaurant was one of the best omakase experiences I've had outside of Japan. The service was friendly and warm, and the food was superb from start to finish.
- flavorsMy experience at this restaurant was an unforgettably delicious and special experience. The outstanding sushi was a highlight, with incredible flavors that delighted my palate. The service from start to finish was exceptional, making the entire dining experience truly memorable.
- mealWhen I asked to opt out of paying over $400 for a dinner for two, they were unwilling to accommodate. However, it ended up being the best meal we ever had. The service was excellent, the atmosphere was enjoyable, and the food was outstanding.
- presentationThe attention to detail in the presentation
Frequently criticized
- foodthe food is not for people from this part of the world
- miso soupI had a few minor critiques: the wagyu sukiyaki, while tender and delicious, was too sweet. The miso soup was overly salty. And the yuzu sorbet, though flavorful, was served hard like an ice cube.
- omakasewe had a 13-course omakase, and I didn't like a single thing
- presentationoccasional fumbling here and there with the presentation
- Food poisoningFood poisoning hit hard that night
- OtoroOtoro was icy
- Sushithe sushi does fall apart sometimes
- allergic reactionallergic reaction from nuts at the restaurant
- authentic Japanese flavorif you are chasing an authentic Japanese flavor, this is not for you
- bluefin fat tuna shabu shabuI just don’t like bluefin fat tuna shabu shabu.
If you're seeking an exceptional omakase journey with high-quality, creative dishes, this place is a strong contender. Just be mindful of the occasional flavor inconsistencies and the rare, but serious, reports of food safety concerns.
Service (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 74% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot generally hits the mark, boasting a good score of 8.1 and a good customer satisfaction of 80.9%. Many guests praise the impeccable service and hospitality of the chef, noting the friendly staff and attentive chefs. From being cordially welcomed to thoughtful gestures, the waiters and waitresses ensure a great experience, often making special occasions like a birthday memorable.
However, out of 157 comments, with 127 positive and 25 negative remarks, a few diners encountered issues. Some felt the pace was too fast, leading to a rushed dining pace. There were also mentions of poor customer service or wait staff who weren't empathetic, particularly concerning reservation challenges or servers talking too fast to be understood.
Service
157
Reviews
80%
Satisfaction
25
negative
5
neutral
127
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Attentive, friendly staff
- Exceptional chef hospitality
- Thoughtful, personalized service
What people don't like
- Rushed dining pace
- Reservation challenges
- Inattentive wait staff
Often praised
- serviceAn act of devotion to the product and the technique. The service, paced like an andante con moto, never broke the ethereal atmosphere of the experience. The entire team functions like a Swiss watchmaking mechanism with a Japanese soul: precision with grace, art with discipline.
- staffWe also want to acknowledge the excellent service. Our group was significantly delayed due to travel complications, but the staff welcomed us with grace and understanding. They held our reservation without issue, served us with warmth and professionalism, and allowed us to enjoy the meal at our own pace.
- ServiceService:5
- serversIt was my first time here, and it definitely won't be my last! From the moment you walk in and are greeted by the staff and sushi chefs, to the servers meticulously clearing dishes and plates, you feel very welcomed. The food was so well prepared, fresh, and simply delicious.
- chefThe restaurant felt warm, friendly, and inviting, creating an atmosphere akin to dining at a friend's home. I had a great conversation with our chef, and our server recommended some great sake. All 18 courses were spectacular.
- chefsthe different chefs very busy preparing the different dishes
- chefs and staffI had the Kyoto style Sushi, and the Omakase was beautifully presented, well-organized, and delicious. The chefs and staff were knowledgeable, fun, and very accommodating. I will definitely return for another round next time I'm in SF.
- sushi chefsIt was my third time at Kusakabe, and I was still impressed by the food quality, service, and friendly sushi chefs. Kusakabe is one of the best sushi restaurants in the city.
- Chef LeoMy preference is for the fish to be the main highlight, but I found the chefs here tend to use more sauce and extra flavors, which wasn't ideal for me. Chef Leo was friendly and attentive. The Tock deposit was deducted from the final bill, and a 20% auto gratuity was applied.
- PatrickPatrick--who is the sweetest, most approachable, and knowledgeable craftsman
Frequently criticized
- customer serviceThe dining pace was too fast; we finished 2-3 dishes earlier than other parties who were seated after us, which made us feel rushed throughout the meal. Overall, I would not return to this restaurant, as I have better options in terms of both food quality and customer service.
- reservationmake it hard to get the reservation
- serviceHorrible experience and service from wait staff
- acknowledgementno acknowledgement at all on our engagement throughout the dinner
- chat with the chefYou won’t be able to chat with the chef
- dining paceThe pace is so fast
- empatheticwait staff that was not empathetic at all
- floor managerfloor manager might have thought we might not show up
- gaslightThey gaslight my friend after they gave her
- managementThe worst management ever!
If youre looking for an experience where youre truly cared for, the service here is a major draw. While a few found the pace a bit quick, the overwhelmingly positive feedback suggests youll likely leave feeling well-attended and impressed. Its definitely worth a visit for that special touch.
Ambience (7.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 50% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot generally hits the mark, boasting a 7.7 score and a solid 76.3% customer satisfaction. Many of the 58 positive remarks highlight the intimate setting and the fantastic sushi counter experience, often described as having a relaxed feeling. Guests rave about the atmosphere, making them feel like they're dining in Tokyo, enjoying a truly special and memorable occasion.
However, not everyone was completely charmed, with 13 negative observations pointing out some areas for improvement. A few found the room a bit claustrophobic or the space too tight. There were also comments about the noise level being too high, and unfortunately, one guest even reported a cockroach sighting, which certainly put a damper on their fine dining experience.
Ambience
76
Reviews
76%
Satisfaction
13
negative
5
neutral
58
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Intimate sushi counter
- Authentic Tokyo vibe
- Special dining experience
What people don't like
- Cockroach reported
- Tight, noisy space
- Subpar table lighting
Often praised
- atmosphereThe atmosphere, the quality of the fish, the service, the diversity of flavors, the careful preparation of every bite...perfection!
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- experienceIncredible sushi, incredible experience.
- ambianceStarting from the ambiance
- once-in-a-lifetime experienceI may never experience this as I don't think I will be making it to Japan anytime soon
- sushi barThe traditional sushi bar in good wood finish
- Japanese traditionKusakabe, San Francisco, is not just a restaurant; it's an omakase altar, a sanctuary where time stands still and Japanese tradition is elevated to an almost spiritual expression. It's the perfect intersection of technical precision and sensory emotion.
- SF downtownin SF downtown is simply amazing
- bar seatsbar seats this time, makes it better to chat with our chef
- beautiful ambiancea beautiful ambiance
Frequently criticized
- atmosphereIn any dining environment, this would be unacceptable. In a fine dining setting that charges premium prices and prides itself on offering a refined atmosphere, it was shocking. The sight of a cockroach near our table dampened what was otherwise a thoughtfully curated and beautifully served meal.
- ambient noiseambient noise made me not able to hear the chef clearly
- cockroachthe presence of a cockroach on the wall
- intimate seatingit didn’t feel as intimate as other omakase restaurants
- lightingthe lighting in the table is worse
- noise levelI was hoping for traditional Japanese dishes but found very few. While the servers attempted to explain each course, the combination of a very high noise level, unfamiliar Japanese terms, and masks made it impossible to understand them. Some dishes were delicious, like the tuna sushi and Wagyu beef, but others were unappetizing, such as the fish skin.
- parkinghard parking
- roomI found the room to be somewhat claustrophobic
- spacethe space was a little too tight
- tableTable is greasy and need refinishing
If you're seeking an intimate, traditional Japanese dining experience with a great vibe, this place is definitely worth a visit, especially if you can snag a sushi counter seat. Just be aware that some found the space a bit snug and the noise level occasionally high, so manage your expectations for a perfectly quiet, expansive setting.
Value (5.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 34% of the guests
When it comes to value, many diners felt they got a great deal, especially for omakase experiences, with 24 positive remarks highlighting it as worth the money and a great deal. Guests often found the quality and service justified the cost, making it a worthwhile special occasion or even inexpensive for the experience offered. However, the overall sentiment is a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 5.6 (average) and customer satisfaction at a rather low 39.3%.
With 31 negative observations, many found the price to be a sticking point, describing it as overpriced or an expensive night out. Some also noted confusing charging methods and tipping add-ons, leading to a feeling of being overcharged or experiencing sticker shock.
Value
61
Reviews
39%
Satisfaction
31
negative
6
neutral
24
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth the money
- Great deal for omakase
- Quality justifies cost
What people don't like
- Confusing pricing
- Felt overpriced
- High expense
Often praised
- priceThey exclusively offer Omakase, an 18-course culinary journey, with optional wine or sake pairings. While it might seem high-priced at first glance, when you consider the quality and artistry that goes into each dish, it’s worth every penny. If you’re a true food enthusiast seeking a memorable dining experience, don’t miss out on this culinary masterpiece!
- great dealThe petite omakaze was a great deal
- valueOur dinner experience was fantastic! We found it to be a very good value for your $$$. This restaurant offers an experience that is as authentic as it can be to dining in Tokyo.
- Tock depositThey deduct the tock deposit from the final bill.
- costWe opted for a 19-course tasting menu, which included dessert! The cost seemed reasonable for a culinary experience that is truly a symphony of unique and sublime flavors for sushi enthusiasts. The Master of Omesake was present, supervising everything, and the parade of exquisite dishes never stopped.
- cost of a dinnerthat dinner is a whole heck of a lot cheaper than buying an airplane ticket to Japan
- fixed price menuafter my experience, I had to accept that it was not only fair, but necessary
- moneyMy experience at the restaurant was very positive, especially considering the value for money offered for the omakase. While the atmosphere was busier than I typically expect for an omakase experience, it was well worth the money. The food was excellent, and the service was also top-notch.
- omakazeAbout 200 dollars for the omakaze but well worth every dollar
- pricedSitting at the bar, I received excellent attention from chefs and servers alike. The pacing of the meal was excellent, and it was priced incredibly well.
Frequently criticized
- priceThe tipping add ons were a bit unclear, though I did have several beers. All in all, it was definitely not worth the $600 or $700 I spent for dinner for two.
- expensiveThe food is not for people from this part of the world. It was expensive and terrible.
- Google menuSaw the Google menu when I made reservations
- billhard to justify the $400 bill
- change feewould have paid a reasonable change fee
- charging methodtheir tricky charging method
- cost of the mealI was not aware of the cost of the meal until after I was seated
- dinner for 2400 plus for a dinner for 2
- drink pairingsThe drink pairings were pricey
- expenseDefinitely not worth the high expense
If you're seeking a high-quality omakase experience and are prepared for a potentially significant investment, many found it worth every dollar. However, be mindful of the pricing structure and potential for a higher bill than anticipated, as some diners felt it was overpriced for what they received.
How are the prices at KUSAKABE?
You’re looking at roughly 106 per person – reported by 111 diners. That puts it squarely in the $101+ category. For a Japanese Restaurant in San Francisco, thats definitely a higher-end experience!
And its clear from the data that nearly all guests are spending in this premium bracket, so don’t expect a budget-friendly surprise.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 111 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value stacks up against similar spots in San Francisco.
Considering the 106 per person average, we think this restaurant is positioned as a premium Japanese dining destination. If youre seeking a top-tier culinary experience in San Francisco, the pricing likely aligns with that expectation. Its an investment for a memorable meal, not your casual weeknight sushi.
Customer Reviews: what people think about KUSAKABE
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
7
Birthday Omakase: Good but Not Great
I took my sister for her birthday meal for an 8 PM dinner seating. Booking was done via Tock, and cancellations for a refund are possible 1-2 days beforehand by calling. I requested bar seating and was informed it would cost an additional $20/person to guarantee.
However, due to booking early and it being a birthday celebration, they were willing to accommodate without the extra charge. We ordered two omakase meals at $185 each, an Asahi draft for $9, and genmai cha for $8, plus a 5% SF mandate. My sister thoroughly enjoyed the meal.
Personally, I thought it was just okay, perhaps because I wasn't very hungry. My preference is for the fish to be the main highlight, but I found the chefs here tend to use more sauce and extra flavors, which wasn't ideal for me. Chef Leo was friendly and attentive.
The Tock deposit was deducted from the final bill, and a 20% auto gratuity was applied. Parking is street parking only.
- omakase meals6
- Chef Leo9
- Tock deposit7
- fish4
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
10
Exceptional Omakase Experience!
My experience at this restaurant was the best experience we had for Omakase. The food was very fresh, tasty, and the portion was generous; you don’t go home hungry. The atmosphere and service were very attentive and caring, creating a very intimate atmosphere.
- Omakase10
- food9
- portion9
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Exceptional Omakase Experience
My experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional. I had one of the best Omakase meals I've ever eaten, and the value was so much worth it. Even the 13-course meal left me feeling full.
The food was outstanding, the service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was perfect for conversation.
- Omakase10
- value10
- 13 course9
Visit Type
- Special Occasion
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
Exceptional Omakase Experience
By far the best Omakase experience I’ve had in SF. The restaurant’s cooking is influenced by traditional Kyoto-style, and we went with the Omakase and sake pairing. Both the food and service were flawless—elegant yet unpretentious.
Definitely a spot I’d return to for a special occasion. Thank you for an immaculate experience.
- Omakase experience10
- restaurant’s cooking10
- sake pairing9
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
2
Disappointing Omakasa Experience
My experience at this restaurant was rather disappointing if you expect a Japanese omakasa experience. I'm not sure why others rated this restaurant so high. The Chinese subtitle of the menu was a giveaway.
We opted for the 18-course omakasa menu. The first few servings were interesting, but then it started to get boring. Almost everything was cooked and drizzled with citrus.
Their uni was bitter and was combined with a scallop. While I'm all for exploring new flavor profiles, certain combinations do not work, and I expect chefs serving $200 meals to know this. Halfway through the menu, we didn't even finish the courses and were just waiting for it to be over.
At the end of the night, I was craving for some really good raw sashimi or nigiri. Never again.
- menu5
- raw sashimi8
- nigiri8
- omakasa experience2
- courses3
- uni2
What KUSAKABE offers
Planning
- Reservations required
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Hard liquor
- Wine
- Beer
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Catering
- Table service
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Delivery
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Romantic
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
Do you need reservations to dine at KUSAKABE?
Yes, reservations are required to dine at KUSAKABE. It is highly recommended to make dinner reservations in advance to secure your table at this popular Japanese restaurant in San Francisco’s Financial District.
What are the parking and accessibility options at KUSAKABE?
KUSAKABE offers wheelchair accessible entrance, seating, and restrooms for your convenience. While finding a parking space can sometimes be difficult, you may find free or paid street parking options available nearby for your visit.
How does KUSAKABE generally perform?
KUSAKABE earns a strong overall score of 8.1, driven by its excellent Food (8.5) and good Service (8.1) and Ambience (7.7). Value (5.6) is considered more average by diners.
What makes KUSAKABE's omakase experience stand out?
Guests frequently praise the exceptional quality and presentation of the omakase cuisine, noting the fresh fish and carefully crafted dishes. The traditional Japanese ambiance also contributes to a memorable dining experience.
Are there any common concerns about dining at KUSAKABE?
Some diners have noted concerns regarding the high price and occasional lack of clarity in billing. Additionally, a few experiences mentioned a rushed dining pace and issues like ambient noise or tight seating.