Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
oChef » Sushi Hakko – San Francisco
Sushi Hakko - San Francisco
Photo from Sushi Hakko
Sushi Hakko at a glance
San Francisco Cow Hollow
- 🍣 Japanese Restaurant
$$$
Price per Person $101+
mentioned by 55 of the guests
#432 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#51 Japanese Restaurant out of 174 in San Francisco
Excellent
8.2 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
431
Reviews
82.1%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Fresh ingredients
- Memorable dining
Frequently criticized
- Value concerns
- Pacing issues
The restaurant Sushi Hakko invites you to experience authentic Japanese cuisine right in the heart of San Francisco’s vibrant Cow Hollow neighborhood. You’ll discover a cozy and trendy atmosphere perfect for dinner, whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening or a lively late-night meal.
This Japanese restaurant offers a diverse menu, including healthy, vegan, and vegetarian options, alongside organic dishes and small plates. You can enjoy a selection of wine and beer, making it an ideal spot for various dining preferences.
Overview: Introducting Sushi Hakko
Sushi Hakko offers a notable omakase experience, often praised for its high-quality fish and the chef’s distinctive approach to sushi. Guests frequently highlight the attentive service that complements the meal, making for a memorable visit.
While many find the overall experience quite rewarding, some opinions suggest that the perceived value can be a point of contention, with expectations sometimes not fully met given the cost.
Excellent
8.2
out of 10
431
Reviews
82.1%
Satisfaction
68
negative
9
neutral
354
positive
Sushi Hakko achieves a solid overall score of 8.2, reflecting a generally positive dining experience. Customer satisfaction stands at a good 82.1%, indicating that most patrons leave content.
This assessment is drawn from 431 customer remarks, with 354 positive and 68 negative observations. Digging deeper, the Food (8.5) and Service (8.4) truly stand out, often described as exceptional.
The Ambience (8.2) also contributes positively to the experience. However, the Value (5.2) receives a more mixed reception, suggesting it’s an area where opinions diverge.
What people like
- High-quality fish
- Exceptional omakase experience
- Attentive, personalized service
What people don't like
- Inconsistent food execution
- Concerns about value
- Service pacing issues
For those seeking a distinctive sushi experience, Sushi Hakko presents a compelling option, particularly if you appreciate innovative food and dedicated service. The omakase experience is frequently praised for its craftsmanship and unique flavors.
With a recommendation score of 8.4, it’s certainly worth considering. However, be mindful of the value proposition, as some guests find the pricing steep for the overall offering.
It’s a place for a special meal, but manage expectations on cost.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Sushi Hakko
Food (8.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 98% of the guests
When it comes to the food, this spot generally hits it out of the park! With a strong score of 8.5 and customer satisfaction at 85.4%, diners are consistently impressed. Based on 216 positive remarks out of 253 total, many rave about the exceptional omakase experience, the incredibly fresh fish, creative dishes, and the impeccable flavors, often highlighting the chefs talent and unique fermentation touches.
However, its not without its bumps. A smaller number of 33 negative comments mention concerns like lukewarm nigiri, inconsistent seasoning, and even reports of food poisoning. Some found issues with shell fragments or excessive truffle oil, suggesting that while the highs are very high, there can be occasional inconsistencies in execution.
Food
253
Reviews
85%
Satisfaction
33
negative
4
neutral
216
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Exceptional omakase experience
- Fresh, creative dishes
- Impeccable flavors
What people don't like
- Food safety concerns
- Inconsistent nigiri quality
- Excessive truffle oil
Often praised
- foodI used to love the food here. After my first visit, I recommended it to several friends who also enjoyed it.
- fishMy experience at this restaurant was centered around the highest quality sushi I've ever had. It's a no-frills approach, focusing purely on extremely fresh fish wrapped in soft seaweed, without the distraction of overly sweet sauces. I was also incredibly impressed by the best ginger I've ever tasted.
- OmakaseAmazing Omakase, the fish is excellent and each piece carefully crafted
- omakase experienceMy 17-year-old daughter and I had an incredible, world-class omakase experience at Sushi Hakko today, deserving of a Michelin Star. Chef Alex, the owner, personally prepared our 19-course tasting menu, and each dish was a masterclass in flavor, balance, and craftsmanship.
- sushiSitting at the sushi bar, I was warmly welcomed by the owner and sushi chef, Alex. His approach is unique, incorporating Korean influences with fermented sauces and curing techniques that result in remarkable flavors and incredibly melt-in-your-mouth sushi. The service was attentive and knowledgeable, and the wine list and beer selection were thoughtfully curated to complement the sushi.
- omakaseI've visited this restaurant three times in 2022 and consider it the best bang for your buck omakase I've experienced in the Bay Area. The omakase is priced around $170-$180 per person before tip and tax, bringing the total to about $210-$220.
- sakeChef Alex Kim's focus and passion were evident as he happily took time to explain the history and his take on the dishes. The combination of great food, excellent sake, and a really chilled atmosphere made for a memorable visit.
- dishesdishes that showed off the restaurants creativity and style
- ingredientscare and love Chef Alex puts towards the ingredients
- mealhad an amazing meal and experience
Frequently criticized
- fishWhile some of the fish was admittedly exceptional, many dishes were poorly executed. The rice in the nigiri was hearty and tough, I found shell fragments in my crab soup, and several pieces of fish were simply inedible. Service was equally disappointing.
- foodsixteen courses of pretentious, largely inedible food
- sushiUnfortunately, the wine pairing was a huge miss; we didn't like a single pour. At $500 for a tiny meal, we expected far more refined sushi and wine pairing. These are established Michelin restaurant prices, without the food, wine, or service to match.
- Hokkaido uniit was not sweet at all
- Uni experienceThe sake paired with our meal was equally outstanding. The only minor point our party of 3 noted was a questionable Uni experience, but this did not detract from the overall excellence of our dining experience. We are eager to return many times!
- Uni qualitydisappointed in the quality of the Uni
- food poisoningall three of us developed food poisoning
- food qualityit's not even decent either
- hot dishthe only supposedly hot dish was only lukewarm.
- medaimedai (chewy due to the skin) didn't quite impress
If you're seeking a high-quality omakase with creative, fresh dishes and remarkable flavors, this place is definitely worth trying. Just be mindful of the occasional reports of inconsistency in nigiri temperature or seasoning, which might slightly temper an otherwise excellent meal.
Service (8.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 74% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 8.4 and customer satisfaction at 84%, it's clear most diners have a good experience. Out of 106 comments, a whopping 89 praise the attentive staff, knowledgeable chef, and exceptional service, often highlighting the kindness and care from Chef Alex and his team.
However, not every visit is perfect, with 17 comments pointing to areas for improvement. Some guests noted slow service, unprofessional etiquette from servers, and long waiting times, occasionally feeling the team might be short staffed. It seems pacing and consistency could sometimes be a challenge.
Service
106
Reviews
84%
Satisfaction
17
negative
0
neutral
89
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Exceptional chef interaction
- Attentive, kind staff
- Knowledgeable service
What people don't like
- Slow service pacing
- Unprofessional server conduct
- Long waiting times
Often praised
- serviceIt's my favorite sushi spot in SF, offering high quality and thoughtful pieces, especially considering the price point. The excellent service truly stood out; the waitress noticed I was left-handed and served the nigiri in an orientation that was less awkward for me to eat. Overall, I highly recommend this place.
- Chef AlexMy experience at Sushi Hakko was by far the best sushi and food experience I have had in the Bay. Chef Alex is a true master of his craft when it comes to fermentation and aging. The flavors of the 18 day aged marinated chu toro were beyond mind-blowing.
- staffThe chef’s incredible talent and attention to detail were evident in the originality of the flavors and ingredients he selected, as well as his seasonal fish selection. Furthermore, the restaurant boasts the best staff and service. We will definitely be back!
- chefthe chef himself came out to deliver some of the dishes
- ChefChef was hilarious, further enhancing the night out
- sushi chefchat with the sushi chef as well as see him do his magic
- chef Alexchatted with chef Alex. He is fun and very informative
- waitressOur waitress is so gentle and uplifting
- AlexAlex is very charming
- Chef Alex KimChef Alex Kim is focused on his work, but also passionate
Frequently criticized
- serviceOur server seemed unfamiliar with their wine list and offered no guidance on their extensive Japanese drinks menu. The service was awkward and unprofessional - she repeatedly reached across diners instead of walking around the table, placing dishes haphazardly. Pacing was terrible, with unreasonably long waits between courses that left us hungry despite the sixteen-course progression.
- advertised hoursadvertises as open until 11pm
- delivery staffthey treat their Delivery badly
- emailI emailed them... and was completely ignored
- last seatingtheir "last seating" is at 9:30pm
- managerI spoke with the manager and apparently they have “removed” the two most photographed dishes
- pacingPacing was terrible, with unreasonably long waits
- professional etiquettethey have bad professional etiquette
- serverserver seemed unfamiliar with their wine list
- short staffedThey seemed a little short staffed
If you're looking for a place with a truly engaging and knowledgeable chef, and generally attentive staff, this restaurant is definitely worth trying. Just be prepared that on rare occasions, the pacing might be a bit slow, but the overall experience is highly positive.
Ambience (8.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 45% of the guests
The ambience at Sushi Hakko truly shines, with a strong performance reflected in its 8.2 score and 86% customer satisfaction, both indicating a good experience. Many of the 37 positive comments praise the stellar ambiance and calm, inviting environment, especially for a special occasion. Sitting at the sushi bar is often highlighted as a relaxing and intimate dining experience, contributing to the overall positive feel of the place.
However, a few of the 4 negative comments mention some minor drawbacks. Concerns include the restaurant sometimes feeling half empty, a fishy smell inside, and a super cold restroom. One opinion also suggested it felt like style over substance, hinting at a lack of warmth despite the modern interior design.
Ambience
43
Reviews
86%
Satisfaction
4
negative
2
neutral
37
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Stellar ambiance
- Calm, inviting environment
- Sushi bar experience
What people don't like
- Fishy smell inside
- Cold restroom
- Empty tables feel
Often praised
- ambianceMy experience at Sushi Hakko was truly exceptional. The restaurant boasts a stellar ambiance and thoughtful service, perfectly complementing the incredible delicacies on offer. Our fixed menu was a delightful journey, featuring classics with occasional, always compelling and impressive surprises.
- atmosphereChef Alex Kim's focus and passion were evident as he happily took time to explain the history and his take on the dishes. The combination of great food, excellent sake, and a really chilled atmosphere made for a memorable visit.
- sushi barsat at the sushi bar and had an amazing meal
- ambienceThe place has great ambience as well
- barSitting at the bar is a really special experience
- interiorNice clean minimalist interior for zen vibes
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- High end detailsHigh end details.
- anniversary dinnerhad a wonderful anniversary dinner here
- bar experienceHighly recommend the bar experience
Frequently criticized
- restaurantthe restaurant is always half empty
- restroomThe restroom was super cold without a heated fancy toilet
- smellInside the restaurant the smell was a bit fishy somehow
- style over substanceIt was certainly not worth the price, which explains why almost all the tables were empty. While the interior was good, it felt like style over substance.
Overall, Sushi Hakko offers a genuinely good atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion or an intimate sushi bar experience. While a few minor issues like a fishy smell or cold restroom might pop up, the inviting and calm setting largely outweighs these concerns. If youre seeking a relaxing and stylish dining environment, its definitely worth a visit.
Value (5.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 31% of the guests
When it comes to value, things are a bit of a mixed bag, with an average score of 5.2 and customer satisfaction sitting at a mixed 41.4%. Many guests felt they got their money's worth, highlighting aspects like an optional add-on that was worth every dollar and finding the overall price to be a reasonable price for the experience. Some even called it the best bang for your buck and felt it truly punches above its weight.
However, out of 29 customer comments, 14 expressed concerns, noting that the experience was pricy and not worth the price. Several opinions mentioned Michelin star prices without the matching quality, and some found the drinks to be inappropriately priced. There were also mentions of a significant service charge adding to the overall cost, making some feel it was too expensive for what was offered.
Value
29
Reviews
41%
Satisfaction
14
negative
3
neutral
12
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth every dollar
- Best bang for buck
- Punches above weight
What people don't like
- Not worth price
- Too pricy
- Overpriced drinks
Often praised
- priceThe price for five of us was a shade below $1000. It was worth it.
- less moneymuch less
- omakase priceI've visited this restaurant three times in 2022 and consider it the best bang for your buck omakase I've experienced in the Bay Area. The omakase is priced around $170-$180 per person before tip and tax, bringing the total to about $210-$220.
- optional add-onan optional $40 add-on of three exquisite sushi offerings well worth the extra cost
- price pointfor the price point
- reasonable priceMy experience at the restaurant was fantastic! The Omakase offered a lot of great dishes at a reasonable price. The Chef was incredibly nice and friendly.
- valueHaving visited about 4 times, I can confidently say it's one of the best sushi experiences I've ever had. The restaurant truly punches above its weight class in terms of value. I would highly recommend it for serious sushi lovers.
- value for moneyyou get what you pay for
- worth every dollarit’s worth every dollar!
- worth goingDefinitely worth going to this place!
Frequently criticized
- priceThe food seemed to be pre-made and microwaved, and it was the worst sushi I've had in a long time. It was certainly not worth the price, which explains why almost all the tables were empty. While the interior was good, it felt like style over substance.
- Michelin star pricesMichelin star prices for mediocrity
- drinksThe drinks were inappropriately priced extremely high.
- mealUnfortunately, the wine pairing was a huge miss; we didn't like a single pour. At $500 for a tiny meal, we expected far more refined sushi and wine pairing. These are established Michelin restaurant prices, without the food, wine, or service to match.
- price pointPacing was terrible, with unreasonably long waits between courses that left us hungry despite the sixteen-course progression. For this price point, there are far better omakase experiences available. Save your money and special occasions for establishments that respect both the tradition and their guests.
- pricy$185 per person was kinda pricy for this experience
- service chargebe prepared for a 20% service charge, regardless of your party size
- valuecharging idiots $120 for what would cost literally 2000 yen
If youre looking for a high-end experience and are prepared for a potentially steep bill, you might find some aspects to be a good value. However, if youre sensitive to price and expect every penny to translate into exceptional quality, you might want to explore other options.
How are the prices at Sushi Hakko?
On average, you’ll spend around 112 per person – from 55 guests. That puts the restaurant squarely in the $101+ category. For a Japanese Restaurant in San Francisco, that’s definitely on the higher-end side, a real treat!
Looking at the data, its clear that almost all guests are paying in this premium bracket, with prices clustering very tightly around the $101+ mark. Its not a mix of cheap and premium, but consistently high.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 55 reviews.
How this restaurant’s value for money compares to similar spots in San Francisco.
Considering the premium pricing, wed say it feels fair if the quality and experience truly match the higher-end Japanese dining youd expect in San Francisco. It’s definitely a place for a special occasion rather than a casual bite.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Sushi Hakko
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
Exceptional Omakase Experience!
My experience at this restaurant was an excellent omakase experience. The food was delicious, hyper-fresh, unique, and creative. The chef was hilarious, which further enhanced the night out.
It was clear that a lot of thought went into everything, from the menu selection to the marinades, to the ginger, to the chopsticks, with stories for everything. The price was not outrageously high. Highly recommended.
- omakase experience10
- food10
- Chef10
Visit Type
- Special Occasion
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
Exceptional Omakase with a Unique Touch
We had a wonderful anniversary dinner here, a rare night out with our 6-month-old baby. Chef Alex and the staff truly made it special. We are so thankful for the excellent omakase, which featured a unique fermentation touch.
The staff was incredibly accommodating, and we will remember this experience well.
- anniversary dinner10
- Chef Alex10
- staff10
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Fantastic Omakase Experience!
I visited on a Tuesday evening, and the restaurant was not crowded. The host and chef were incredibly hospitable, contributing to a fantastic experience. I opted for the omakase experience at the bar, and thoroughly enjoyed watching the chef prepare fresh fish.
The menu offered a perfect balance of authentic nigiri/sashimi and creative dishes. Everything served was delicious. I would definitely return!
- host9
- chef9
- omakase experience10
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Family
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
World-Class Omakase: A Michelin Star Experience
My 17-year-old daughter and I had an incredible, world-class omakase experience at Sushi Hakko today, deserving of a Michelin Star. Chef Alex, the owner, personally prepared our 19-course tasting menu, and each dish was a masterclass in flavor, balance, and craftsmanship. Chef Alex tells a story with every piece, served over perfectly seasoned, warm rice.
The miso black cod, prepared using a 16th-century recipe, offered a deeper, more nuanced umami profile than sweeter versions, thanks to his two-year fermented miso. Standout dishes included the Toro Tartare with caviar and uni on a rice cracker, elevated by a hand-drawn visual design by Chef Alex. The Uni, O-Toro, and Kinmedai were exceptional.
Even the final panna cotta was unexpectedly one of the best I’ve ever had—smooth, delicate, and beautifully balanced. Chef Alex is a perfectionist and an artist, evident in both the food and the orchestrated experience. Sushi Hakko offers a memorable, elevated sushi experience in San Francisco.
- omakase experience10
- miso black cod10
- Toro Tartare with caviar and uni10
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
7
Skilled Sushi Chef, Slightly Off Nikiri
My experience at this restaurant was shaped by the presence of Alex, a chef who has been a fixture in the bay for a long time. When Alex himself is preparing the rice, he does a good job, demonstrating skill in handling the neta. However, I felt there was just a little too much nikiri on some of the pieces.
- neta7
- rice8
- nikiri4
What Sushi Hakko offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Has changing table(s)
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Late-night food
- Healthy options
- Vegan options
- Wine
- Beer
- Small plates
- Organic dishes
- Vegetarian options
- Private dining room
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Seating
- Table service
- Dessert
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Parking
- Free street parking
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Sushi Hakko?
At Sushi Hakko, you can look forward to a cozy and trendy atmosphere, perfect for dinner. They offer comfortable seating and table service, ensuring a pleasant dine-in experience. If you prefer to enjoy their delicious Japanese cuisine at home, delivery service is also available. Reservations are recommended, especially for dinner, to secure your spot.
Does Sushi Hakko cater to specific dietary needs and families?
Absolutely! Sushi Hakko provides a wide range of options to suit various dietary preferences, including healthy options, vegan options, organic dishes, and vegetarian options. For families, you’ll find a dedicated kids’ menu, high chairs, and changing tables, making it a great choice for dining with children.
What is the overall rating for Sushi Hakko?
Sushi Hakko holds an overall score of 8.2 out of 10. Its Food (8.5), Service (8.4), and Ambience (8.2) are rated highly, while Value (5.2) receives a more average assessment.
What do customers appreciate most about Sushi Hakko?
Customers frequently praise the high-quality fish and the exceptional omakase experience at Sushi Hakko. The attentive and personalized service, often highlighting Chef Alex’s unique approach, is also a significant draw.
Are there any common concerns about Sushi Hakko?
Some patrons have noted inconsistencies in food execution, particularly with certain dishes or ingredients like uni. Concerns about the overall value for money and occasional issues with service pacing have also been mentioned.