Highlights
- Great wine list
oChef » Niku Steakhouse – San Francisco
Niku Steakhouse - San Francisco
Photo from Niku Steakhouse
Niku Steakhouse at a glance
San Francisco South of Market
- 🥩 Steak House
€€€
Price per Person 101 € –
mentioned by 93 of the guests
#1191 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#5 Steak House out of 7 in San Francisco
Good
7.5 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
885
Reviews
71.9%
Satisfaction
Often praised
Frequently criticized
The restaurant Niku Steakhouse is a premier Steak House in the heart of San Francisco’s bustling South of Market neighborhood. You’ll discover an upscale and romantic ambiance, perfect for a memorable evening.
This trendy spot is particularly celebrated for its great wine list, offering an exquisite selection to complement your meal. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or simply seeking a sophisticated dining experience, Niku Steakhouse promises an exceptional culinary journey.
Overview: Introducting Niku Steakhouse
Good
7.5
out of 10
885
Reviews
71.9%
Satisfaction
194
negative
55
neutral
636
positive
What people like
What people don't like
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Verdict: Our expert take on Niku Steakhouse
Food (8 out of 10)
mentioned by 96% of the guests
When it comes to the food, youre generally in for a treat! With a strong score of 8 and customer satisfaction at 78.8%, diners are quite pleased. Out of 519 comments, 409 highlight the exceptional quality, praising the incredible A5 wagyu, delicious steak, crispy pig ears, and the decadent wagyu fat brownie, often calling it culinary magic.
However, not every dish hits the mark perfectly. Around 68 comments mention occasional issues like steak toughness, a perceived lack of flavor in some cuts, or problems with doneness. Some found the seasoning too light or the meat overcooked, suggesting theres still a little room for more consistent execution.
Food
519
Reviews
78%
Satisfaction
68
negative
42
neutral
409
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Exceptional Wagyu cuts
- Decadent Wagyu brownie
- Delicious starters/sides
What people don't like
- Inconsistent steak texture
- Steak lacked flavor
- Steak doneness issues
Often praised
- foodThe service was exceptional, with attentive and knowledgeable staff who offered great recommendations. The cocktails were a highlight, expertly crafted and perfectly complementing the delicious food. From the sizzling steaks to the vibrant flavors, every bite was a delight.
- bone marrowThe food was also amazing, with several standout dishes. I particularly enjoyed the beef tartare, crispy pig ears (absolutely amazing), bone marrow, crispy potato, their parker house rolls, and the ribeye. The wagyu flight of A3, A4, & A5 is a must-try.
- FoodFood tasty though sometimes so odd as to be a tad off-putting
- steaksMy experience at this restaurant was largely defined by the phenomenal food. It was truly one of the best steaks I've ever had. We explored a variety of dishes, including the corn tortellini, bone marrow, and a wagyu tasting (A3, A4, and A5).
- cocktailsFrom the cocktails to the steak to the sides, everything we got was amazing.
- meatMy experience at this restaurant was largely positive. I enjoyed savoring delicious meat, which was cooked to excellent perfection. The service was attentive and professional.
- steakThe Waygu sampler was phenomenal, and the Tomahawk was perfect. If you're seeking an elegant yet fun experience with masterfully cooked steak and curated sides and cocktails, this is a spot to try! Thank you for a great night!
- broccoliniWe highly recommend sitting at the chefs counter. We ordered the wagyu meatballs, corn tortelloni, broccolini, potatoes, and the tomahawk. The staff made us feel welcomed, didn't rush us, and were both inquisitive and educational about the menu.
- crispy pig earsthe oyster, steak tartar, bone marrow and crispy pig ears would have been and amazing meal
- sidesMy experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. The food was generally fine, with high quality steaks and sides. The wine selection was standard, and service was fast.
Frequently criticized
- foodI've had better food elsewhere for dramatically less.
- steakThe steak was tough and not properly cleaned
- mushroomsMost of the dishes arrived very late — I understand that steak takes time, but even the appetizers took almost an hour to arrive. For the mushrooms, the menu listed maitake, but they were mixed with other types of mushrooms. The steak was tough and not properly cleaned — there were a lot of white, chewy parts that made it hard to eat.
- 16-oz Rib-eye16-oz Rib-eye is really chewy
- Australian wagyu flat ironarrived underheated, the muscle’s collagen band left intact, turning what should be supple umami into chew
- Beef Tartare我覺得有點油膩
- Bryan Flannery 14 day dry-age stripslightly over cooked and very tough
- Chicago style steaknot know what Chicago style steak is
- Dungeness crab ricedidn't taste much like crab which was quite disappointing
- Japanese cuisineThe promise of fresh, meticulously prepared Japanese cuisine was quickly shattered by the reality of a greasy mess. Every dish we ordered felt heavy and laden with oil, completely lacking the delicate flavors and clean presentation you expect from good Japanese food. If you're looking for a truly great Japanese meal with excellent service, I highly recommend Pabu instead.
If youre seeking a high-quality steak experience with unique Japanese-inspired twists and dont mind the occasional minor inconsistency, this place is definitely worth trying. Be prepared for rich flavors and don't skip the wagyu fat brownie!
Service (7 out of 10)
mentioned by 82% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot generally hits the mark with a good score of 7. Many guests rave about the attentive and knowledgeable staff, often highlighting the flawless service and genuine hospitality and warmth. With 135 positive remarks out of 205 total, its clear many appreciate the teams dedication and friendly faces.
However, the customer satisfaction, sitting at a mixed 65.9%, suggests there's room for improvement. Some diners experienced slow service, long wait times, and issues with communication, with a few even noting a less-than-ideal manager attitude. These 66 negative comments indicate that while often good, service can sometimes miss the mark.
Service
205
Reviews
65%
Satisfaction
66
negative
4
neutral
135
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Staff are attentive
- Service is flawless
- Team is knowledgeable
What people don't like
- Service can be slow
- Long wait times
- Poor communication
Often praised
- serviceOn the service front, there was a MAJOR oversight with a birthday celebration; the group next to us received a dessert with a candle for their birthday girl, but nothing was brought for our birthday girl, even though multiple people wished her happy birthday, indicating awareness. However, aside from this significant lapse, the service was otherwise impeccable. The beef tartare was delicious and my favorite dish of the night.
- staffMy experience at this restaurant was largely positive, with brilliant dishes that impressed from start to finish. The professional and friendly staff at the bar counter were a highlight. I also appreciated the recommendation to check out the butcher shop next door, which was brilliant as well.
- ServiceService is great - everyones nice and friendly
- attention to detailHis knowledge and attention to detail really elevated the experience
- chefsBoth chefs were very friendly, would answer customers questions, and greet customers.
- bartenderOur bartender went above and beyond
- experienceMy experience at this restaurant was an over-the-top steak experience with a classy vibe. Although I'm not a regular beef eater, this place rocks and you won't get a better experience. I ordered the tasting menu and added an off-menu option.
- reservationable to secure a reservation on a high top a few days in advance
- serverour server who I don’t remember his name
- serversNiku Steakhouse truly made our wedding dinner unforgettable, and we highly recommend it for anyone looking for exceptional food and service. We want to give a special shoutout to our Event/catering coordinator Chloe, & primary 2 servers Reuben and Carolina for exceptional service.
Frequently criticized
- serviceI am deeply disappointed with my recent experience at your restaurant. After paying $875 for my meal, I was unjustly accused of stealing a knife. This incident ruined an otherwise enjoyable evening and was entirely unacceptable.
- reservationWe did have a reservation and were seemingly forgotten about for about 30 minutes
- managerI pointed out that a large group of about 10 people had just left, and we were the last party, indicating available seating. Despite this, the manager refused to help and even held the door open for us to leave. It felt as though they were unwilling to serve us because it was close to closing time (9 PM).
- waiterThe front desk liaison felt condescending when we requested an eta regarding the wait time for our reservation (but it is possible that every response is met with dissatisfaction with that long of a wait). Even still, I only docked one point for that because it was quite literally perfection thereafter (except I had to repeat my order twice as the waiter for some reason kept getting it wrong/not sure he was actually listening to us to be honest). Did the amazing food make me forget the wait time and service snafus, apparently no.
- serververy difficult time hearing my server
- waiting timeIt was another 30 minutes until we had a table
- Michelin starDoes not deserve a Michelin star at all
- Michelin star restaurantMichelin star restaurant. Would not recommend
- SommelierSommelier was seemingly annoyed
- accommodationcould not accommodate the two extra seats
Overall, service here can be quite impressive, especially when the team is on their game. If youre looking for attentive and knowledgeable staff, youll likely be pleased, but be prepared for potential inconsistencies like longer waits or communication hiccups.
Ambience (7.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 58% of the guests
The ambience here generally hits the mark, with a solid score of 7.7 and customer satisfaction at a good 76.4%. Many guests rave about the chef's counter experience, praising the intimate atmosphere and classy but not stuffy vibe. With 84 positive remarks out of 110 total, it's clear most find the setting, lighting, and music contribute to a great vibe and memorable evening.
However, not everyone is completely charmed, as 21 negative comments point out some areas for improvement. Issues like uncomfortable bar chairs, a tight space, and feeling crowded or loud in certain areas were noted. While the overall mood is positive, some seating arrangements might detract from the experience for a few.
Ambience
110
Reviews
76%
Satisfaction
21
negative
5
neutral
84
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Chef's counter experience
- Intimate, classy vibe
- Great lighting and music
What people don't like
- Uncomfortable bar chairs
- Crowded, tight spaces
- Loud dining room
Often praised
- atmospheresubdued, yes, but in the most welcoming, intimate way. A quiet hum, restrained lighting, and the intoxicating aroma of seared meat.
- AtmosphereAtmosphere is lovely
- experienceis an experience that is always excellent and consistent
- ambianceIt truly is the best seat in the house, offering an up-close view of the culinary magic happening right before your eyes. The ambiance at Niku is elegant yet welcoming, creating an atmosphere that elevates the dining experience. The service was impeccable - attentive without being intrusive, making every moment feel special.
- chef's counterWe sat at the chef's counter which were the best seats in the house.
- ambienceGreat ambience
- chefs counterWe sat at the chefs counter (highly recommend!)
- chef’s counterI highly recommend the chef’s counter
- musicThe music was played just loud enough so you don't have to endure awkward silence
- restaurantMy experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional. The food was the best I have ever eaten, with my son agreeing it was the best restaurant ever. He specifically raved about the fillet mignon, describing it as amazing and buttery.
Frequently criticized
- atmospherein terms of atmosphere, it was a bit off-putting this time
- Michelin ratedhad completely ignored the fact that the restaurant is Michelin rated
- ParkingParking difficult
- bar chairssat at the bar which was uncomfortable for eating or drinking because the chairs were WAY TOO HIGH.
- chair at the barchair at the bar was too high
- crowdedIt's a little crowded
- entertainmentvery little skill in entertainment
- loudWhile the steak was great, the overall atmosphere was a bit much for me. It was quite crowded and loud, with tables placed too close together, which detracted from the dining experience. The service was a bit slow, and considering the restaurant is very expensive, I expected a higher standard for high-end dining.
- musicwish the music was just 2 clicks quieter
- neckmy neck felt really painful
If you snag a spot at the chefs counter, youre likely in for a fantastic and engaging experience. However, be mindful that other seating, especially at the bar or in crowded areas, might not be as comfortable or intimate. Choose wisely for your ideal night out!
Value (3.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 27% of the guests
While the overall sentiment leans heavily towards caution, a few diners found bright spots regarding value and price. Out of 51 total remarks, 8 positive comments highlighted instances where the price felt justified, or even offered a better price for high-quality dishes. Some felt the value was undeniable, making every cent worth it for specific experiences.
However, the majority of feedback, with 39 negative remarks, paints a different picture. Many found the restaurant overpriced and expensive, leading to feelings of it being a waste of money. With a poor score of 3.5 and a poor customer satisfaction of 15.7%, its clear that for most, the high "pricey" tag simply didnt align with the overall experience.
Value
51
Reviews
15%
Satisfaction
39
negative
4
neutral
8
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth the price
- Specific deals available
- Undeniable value
What people don't like
- Overpriced for quality
- Not worth the cost
- Waste of money
Often praised
- priceThis is the place for Wagyu, both Japanese and American. I tried the $100 A5 8oz steak. They also offer two kinds of burgers: one with Wagyu steak and a smash burger with Wagyu ground meat, both priced at $25.
- FlemmingsI have had better experiences at chains such as Flemmings for half the price.
- better priceSpecifically, the steaks were mediocre, although the A5 tasted great. Overall, I've had better steaks at a better price.
- spending $500ended up spending $500 but feeling really full
- valuethe value is undeniable. Every bite, every moment, worth every cent
Frequently criticized
- priceIs this the attitude and energy of a restaurant that is said to be one of the best in town? Knowing you will spend around $400 for two people, being respectful and on time should be the lowest expectation your patrons should have from this place.
- billOn a positive note, my girlfriend received a lovely chocolate cupcake for her birthday, a perfect small bite to end the meal. It was a fine experience to try a variety of exquisite dishes, but overall, it did not live up to the almost $700 bill for the two of us.
- steaksAt $120 a steak, I don’t know that the cost is justified
- $$$$Points deducted for $$$$ price
- $265 wagyu tomahawk steakwe ordered a $265 wagyu tomahawk steak
- San Francisco pricingthe only disappointment is just how expensive things are
- Ultra high pricesUltra high prices
- costThere are two reasons I wouldn't give five stars. The first is cost; this was the most I have ever spent on a meal on a per head basis. Even though the quality, care, and service are all truly exceptional, it gives one pause for thought.
- cost of the whole mealfor the cost of the whole meal (and the cocktails that we drank while waiting for an hour) you would get a better service
- expensivetooooooooooo expensive for what you get
If you're seeking specific high-end items and are prepared for a significant splurge, you might find some value. However, for most, the high costs often lead to disappointment, suggesting it might not be worth the investment.
How are the prices at Niku Steakhouse?
You’re looking at roughly 115 per person – reported by 93 diners. That puts it squarely in the 101 € – category. For a Steak House in San Francisco, this is definitely a higher-end experience.
Its interesting to see that almost all guests are spending well over 101 €, meaning youre consistently getting a premium meal here, not a mix of budget and high-end options.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 93 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value for money compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
For a Steak House in San Francisco, this pricing feels quite fair for a premium experience. Wed say its a solid choice if you’re ready to indulge a bit!
Customer Reviews: what people think about Niku Steakhouse
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Visit Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Moderate (16–30 min.)
Noise Level
- Moderate
9
Great Food and Service Despite Wait
My experience at this restaurant was very positive overall. The food and atmosphere were great, and the service was excellent. Although our 8pm reservation led to a 30-minute wait for our table, the staff was apologetic and compensated us with complimentary drinks and dishes, which were very nice.
This gesture, combined with their exceptional service, led me to give them large amounts of tips.
- food10
- atmosphere10
- service10
- wait4
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Visit Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
9
Exceptional Steakhouse Experience
My experience at Niku Steakhouse was truly impressive. The quality of the beef was exceptional, described as next level — tender, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. The service was attentive without being over the top, and the atmosphere felt modern yet cozy.
Every dish was beautifully presented, and you can really taste the care that goes into everything. It was definitely one of the best steak experiences I’ve had in the Bay Area.
- quality of the beef10
- beef10
- service9
Price per Person
- 101 € -
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Solo Dinner
Group Size
- Solo
Visit Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Moderate
1
Extremely Expensive, Poor Value
I feel like a fool for dining here. Unless you have a lot of money to throw away, I strongly advise against this place. I'm seeking a refund for my $280 check for one person, with no alcohol.
The staff demonstrated very little skill in hospitality, customer service, and entertainment. Essentially, they are selling an 'expense. ' This restaurant would be better suited for a private country club, catering to those who want to separate themselves through high costs.
As someone who has dined globally, I found it to be a terrible experience, far too expensive for what was offered. It was a BIG waste of money at $280 per person, without drinks. You'll spend significantly more here – about $150 more per person than at places like Harris, Mastro's, or Morton's, and around $200 more per person than at top San Francisco restaurants such as Joe's or Tadich Grill.
This establishment seems designed purely to offload extra money. I wish I had something more positive to say, but WOW! I feel like a fool for spending a solid $215 extra for essentially nothing.
The only thing more foolish would have been gambling $200 at a casino. Ironically, the only entertainment value came from the bartender who, on top of the hugely expensive meal, tried to charge me $30 for iced tea refills. He seemed angry that I didn't order one of his house cocktails.
He did remove the charge, but it's head-shakingly absurd that a restaurant charging $280 would feel entitled to charge an additional $30 for iced tea. This added insult to injury, though at least that charge was removed. To be completely honest, the $120 steak, ordered medium-rare, was undercooked to rare+ and was seriously tough.
A manager asked how the steak was, and it was clear it was a rhetorical question expecting a 'yes, everything is excellent' response, similar to how Whole Foods might ask Bill Gates if he found everything okay after waiting in line. Everyone is just expected to say everything is fine.
- expensive1
- waste of money1
- overspend1
Service Intent
- Food Exploration
Visit Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
Exceptional Evening with Perfect Food and Service
What an enjoyable and memorable evening. The service was personable, knowledgeable and attentive. My filet was perfectly cooked with a great crust from the char cooking.
The broccolini on the char grill was wonderful. My cod was also very enjoyable. Highly recommended.
We will return.
- service10
- filet10
- crust9
Service Intent
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Visit Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
10
Absolutely Delicious Birthday Dinner!
I had an absolutely amazing experience celebrating my husband's birthday here. We sat at the chef's bar, which was really cool as we got to watch them prepare and plate everything. A unique touch was getting to pick our own knives for our steaks, which was super fun.
Everything we ate was absolutely delicious. I'd give it a 10 out of 10 and definitely recommend it.
- chef's bar9
- pick our knifes9
- Everything10
What Niku Steakhouse offers
Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Tourists
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Bar onsite
Offerings
- Hard liquor
- Wine
- Coffee
- Beer
- Small plates
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Seating
- Table service
- Dessert
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Onsite services
- Delivery
- Dine-in
Parking
- Free street parking
- Usually plenty of parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Romantic
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
What are the parking and accessibility options available at Niku Steakhouse?
You’ll find convenient parking solutions when visiting Niku Steakhouse in San Francisco. There’s usually plenty of free street parking and paid street parking available nearby. Additionally, the venue is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for all guests, with accessible entrances, seating, and restrooms.
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Niku Steakhouse, and are reservations needed?
Prepare for an upscale, romantic, and trendy dinner experience at Niku Steakhouse. You can indulge in delicious small plates, cocktails, and a great wine list, all served with table service. Given its popularity, dinner reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot for an unforgettable evening.