KUSAKABE

584 Washington St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States

KUSAKABE
About This Sushi Bar

Welcome

KUSAKABE is the first pioneer restaurant that only serves “Omakase”, or Chef’s choice tasting menu in San Francisco. There is a proverb that has spread in East Asia called “温故知新”. It means to study what was in the past, learn it, and use knowledge to gain new interpretations. This has become our basic policy; we understand and respect the history and techniques of traditional Kyoto Kaiseki, developed in Kyoto, and continue to “challenge and revolutionize” in a new world of cuisines. We are grateful for all the things, people, and environment that surround us.
We offer the prix fixe Omakase for $198 and Petite Omakase for $148.

Sushi Reviews
Sushi Experience №1

Phenomenal meal, a must in SF

Visited a month ago

Sushi Experience №2

Very good value for omakase. Busier atmosphere than typical omakase but well worth the money.

Visited a month ago

Sushi Experience №3

Service was great, but food is only high quality raw fish, nothing amazing about it.

Definitely not worth the high expense.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №4

Food was great. The chef asked us if we have any favorites and he gave us a good mix of fatty and lean fish/cuts for the sushi. Loved the umami of the chawan mushi, which was the first dish. The variety of textures and flavors on the appetizer tray had us eagerly anticipating the sushi course. We had the petite omakase with a wagyu add-on, and that was filling

Minus one star because of the service. Dishes came out at just the right pace, but our server talked too fast that we can’t understand what she was saying. It was a full bar the night we were there and the space was a little too tight. I’ve sat at the bar for omakase in the past, at least 2-3 times including in Japan, and I don’t remember them being this tight. Not a dealbreaker though, and would still come back

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №5

I've been to kusakabe 3 times, and it's been exceptional every time. The wagyu is the best I've ever had.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №6

I took my boyfriend here for his birthday and was very impressed with the food and service. The best omakase experience I’ve had in SF! Highly recommend for a special night out.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №7

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №8

Sunday night Omakase dinner is amazing. Great deal, extraordinary food.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №9

Wonderful omakase experience, great wine and sake pairings that are not to miss!

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №10

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №11

Awesome place. The door was locked until the exact minute of the reservation, so don't worry about showing up too early.

Visited 3 months ago

Sushi Experience №12

No es barato, pero merece la pena cada dólar. El japonés más auténtico que he encontrado fuera de Japón. La experiencia fue perfecta

Visited 3 months ago

Sushi Experience №13

Visited 3 months ago

Sushi Experience №14

Visited 3 months ago

Sushi Experience №15

Absolutely a must visit in San Francisco. The menu and flow is well paced and relaxing yet, doesn’t leave you hanging for the next dish. Presentation is elegant and every bite was so fresh. The servers are very well trained and versed in the origins of each offering. Our favourite was the Hokkaido scallop with uni and the chawan mushi with smoked trout caviar. The wine menu is small but superbly curated. Sake menu is extensive. Well worth the price for a wonderful experience

Visited 4 months ago

Sushi Experience №16

First time here and was disappointed to find very few traditional Japanese dishes. The servers explained each course but the combination of very high noise level, new Japanese words, and masks covering their faces made it impossible to understand what was said. Some dishes were delicious (tuna sushi, waygu beef) but others were repellent (I don’t like fish skin). Was looking forward to the miso soup but it was based on fish oil rather than tofu — yuck! Will stick to restaurants where I choose the menu rather than the chef.

Visited 4 months ago

Sushi Experience №17

KUSAKABE is authentically amazing! I spent 3 years traveling to and from Japan in my mid-20s on a mission to find the best sushi in the world...from high class dining on the streets of Fukuoka, to "chefs choice" roulette in private gardens outside Kyoto, and down onto the very shipyard docks in Tokyo where they unload the fish. In all my time before those trips, and since, I was never able to find a sushi restaurant that could measure up ... until KUSAKABE.

The atmosphere, the quality of the fish, the service, the diversity of flavors, the careful preparation of every bite...perfection! I would have sworn I was back in Japan if it weren't for all the English on the menu and the English speaking staff explaining the each course.

I definitely suffered a bunch of sticker shock at the fixed price menu, but after my experience, I had to accept that it was not only fair, but necessary. While the cost of a dinner for four here can cost as much as a new smartphone (or even more!), that dinner is a whole heck of a lot cheaper than buying an airplane ticket to Japan in order to find anything close to this authentic. And with the intimate, high diversity, fixed course experience that they serve, the price is a necessary to cover their costs of staff and low table turnover.

If you are a sushi snob (like me), you will not be disappointed. If you want to eat sushi like you would in the best sushi restaurants in Japan, you will save yourself a ton of time and money to go here. If you want to impress business partners with a fancy dinner, there is almost no better way. And if you simply want to have a quiet intimate date night, the atmosphere and service here will hit the spot just right.

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №18

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №19

With great memories from dinning at Kusakabe almost 10 years ago when it first opened, we decided to go back and see how the restaurant had evolved. As soon as we walked in, the nostalgic feeling kicked in - things felt very much like we remembered. Service still felt very friendly and casual.

We ordered the 18 course with wine pairing. Not going to repeat the positives in detail as so many other reviewers had already covered - food and fish is fresh, and is an authentic sushi experience like in Japan. There isn’t many place like this in the states.

I do have some constructive criticism and info to share to help potential customers to determine if this is a place for you.

- if you are chasing an authentic Japanese flavor, this is not for you. The flavor is on the heavy side to please western palate (very necessary and may not be a bad thing). We had to ask for less salt half way through our meal.

- wine pairing is a bit uninspired considering the price. The only highlight for me was the Kenzo sauvignon blanc. Recommend to try sake pairing

- pace is too fast, we were literally still chewing when the next pieces are already on the plate. The full course is literally done in a little over an hour and chefs are already making dishes for the next round. We felt a bit rushed to say the least. Your experience may be better if ordering a shorter course or booking the 2nd round time slot.

- the restaurant is showing its age: tableware is chipped and loosing colors. Our spoon had a wood splitter and we had to ask to be replaced. Table is greasy and need refinishing. This bother me so much since I cannot swirl my wine, the base sticks to the table.

The Shota is slightly better IMO but also higher priced.

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №20

Wonderful experience. We opted for a bottle of sake and the gentleman allowed us to try four different ones to determine what we would like--how lovely is that?!

Leonardo our sushi chef, was absolutely gifted as well as sweet and genuine. He made beautiful bites and we enjoyed 90% of them. He even substituted a dish for me since I'm not a fan of sea urchin, though I tried it again. I didn't need to do it twice in one evening.

The place was great! The fish fresh! Would definitely come back! Also lovely ambiance.

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №21

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №22

If I could give 10 stars I would. The head chef was knowledgeable and all the staff made us feel very welcome. We got the petite omakase and it was a great amount of food, featured in the picture is the second course.... If you are still reading and need one last nudge, know that this restaurant will be a once in a lifetime experience best enjoyed with people you love.

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №23

Fabulous, authentic Japanese experience! The food and service were unparalleled!

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №24

It’s my first time visiting this place with my son. Everything is done perfectly. The food, service and atmosphere were all well played. Will come back again next time!

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №25

My wife and I are here because we were craving authentic omakase. Some of sushi was really good while most was decent. After the meal, it was hard to justify the $400 bill but the real problem came afterwards.

Food poisoning hit hard that night and I ended up throwing up the entirety of my meal. The entire next day was spent recovering. Please be warned that there is a risk to eating here and it might just ruin your weekend like it did mine.

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №26

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №27

Went for a special occasion meal on a late Sunday night taking advantage of a 20% discount. I found the room somewhat claustrophobic. The food is very good, not great. Some of the sushi was just was not hyper fresh as it should be at this price point. It is unclear who sits at the bar. The tipping add ons were a bit unclear ( though I did have several beers). All in all definitely not worth the $600 or $700 I spent for dinner for 2.

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №28

Absolutely amazing food! The signature ahi tuna dish was unreal. The dessert was good but could be better. The sake we had was so clean and went perfectly with our meal. All around it was just incredible highly recommended

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №29

Absolutely amazing food, atmosphere, and service! Never had omakase before, so this was an amazing and new experience. Sushi was on a different level.

For a brief moment, my wife loved the bluefin tuna more than me :( (good for the restaurant tho :)

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №30

Truly an unforgettable experience. I went 2 weekends in a row and had the absolute best food and service. Can’t wait to return

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №31

Excellent food. Best Omakase candidate in my life.

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №32

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №33

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №34

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №35

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №36

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №37

This is the second time I have been there and enjoyed the wonderful food, to celebrate my graduation as well as my dad’s birthday. Chef Sand is professional and gentle. Everything is perfect. While one thing I want to mention is that before we enter the restaurant at 8:00, every customer is in line, one young boy and young girl just cut into the line without telling anything, and after we noticed them, they just go the second spot, but not the last one, which they should go to. I recommend kusa could arrange one person helping organizing the queue.

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №38

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №39

EJ was fantastic. The food was incredible and the staff were lovely. Easily the best sushi meal I’ve ever had and the sake pairings were thoughtfully suggested.

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №40

The fish was fresh, and the flavour pairing was nice, but I found it could have been more dynamic with some dishes. I enjoyed the Chawan-mushi it was delicious.

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №41

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №42

Probably one of the more creative in presentation ! This place is worth the visit. It had classic things like uni and chutoro/otoro/ salmon eggs. The wagyu was yummy.

The reservation was easy not sure what the purpose of the 8pm vs 815 reservation is. I noticed that everyone at the omakase bar was eating at a different pace. Some that were served first end up being served last as the dinner progressed on.

The dress code is semi causal, my bf wore jeans .

The omakase here is interesting as there are 3 chefs and each of them will serve 2-3 couples. Unlike other omakase I have been to, this one is less informative. They do mentioned some of the cuts here and there. The interaction with the chef is minimal Towards the end, he will ask if you want more or less rice and if you want to order anything else.

I would say out of the omakase places I have been to, this one has the most amount of food. Also loved that ther dessert isn't a sweet tamago nigri!

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №43

Great omakase, easily among my favorites.

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №44

Excellent omakase sushi next to a nice bar to wait for your table at. Reservations important.

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №45

We got the 18 course omakase and everything was so good! I was so full too! Next time I crave sushi, I’ll think of here!

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №46

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №47

I had an incredible meal at Kusakabe. The omakase experience was the best I have ever had. Every food item was delicious and perfectly executed. The attention to detail in the presentation, the kindness of the service and the atmosphere made it a perfect evening. If you love Japanese cuisine, treat yourself to Kusakabe.

Visited 10 months ago

Sushi Experience №48

What an experience. I found this place after arriving in San Francisco with no dinner reservations. I was not aware of the cost of meal until after I was seated and had already ordered something to drink. I was like what the hell, but after taking a few deep breath and realized I may never experience this as I don't think I will be making it to Japan anytime soon. The service was awesome as they explained each dish, it was sometimes hard to understand what they were saying. All the dishes were delicious and fresh. I was almost full half way through, but made space as the food was so good. Would I do this again, maybe not because of the price, but was so glad for the experience

Visited 10 months ago

Sushi Experience №49

Visited 10 months ago

Sushi Experience №50

This was one of the best dining experiences of my life. And I’m old! Everything about Kusakabe was excellent, everything. The restaurant was warm, friendly and inviting, like you were eating at a friend’s home. We had a great conversation with our chef, our server recommended some great sake and all 18 courses were spectacular.

Highly recommended, put Kusakabe on your bucket list, you will not be disappointed.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №51

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №52

Wow. An incredible omakase experience! Had the 18-course dinner, sitting at the chefs counter and I could not be more impressed by the quality and creativity of the food presented!

Each course was distinct, delicious, flavorful, and there was nothing “basic” or “common” that was served. My favorites were the chawan-mushi, otoro, uni on uni, Hokkaido scallop and uni, Kyoto-style pressed saba, kelp-cured flounder fin… and more!

A few minor critiques: the wagu sukiyaki was tender and delicious, but tasted too sweet. The miso soup was overly salty. And the yuzu sorbet had nice flavor but was served hard like an ice cube.

Would definitely return to dine again. Recommended.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №53

High end Japanese restaurant! This sushi is the very very best that I have ever tried!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №54

Great food great service! Highly recommend

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №55

Realmente es mi primer Omesake! Fuimos con mi esposa a celebrar San Valentin ❤️; y pues ya había indagado el lugar: 🍣 🍣 🍣 con estrella Michelin suena atractivo!!! Así que fuimonosss.
Tuvimos que hacer primero una reservacion con anticipación..1 mes aproximadamente.
Hemos llegado fácilmente caminando y pues acudimos puntualmente, nos han recibido cordialmente en japonés. La barra tradicional de suchi en buen acabado en madera y tras de ella; los distintos chefs muy atariados preparando los distintos platillos.
Nos decantamos por uno de 19 que incluía el postre! El coste nos pareció razonable para una experiencia culinaria que realmente es una sinfonía de sabores únicos y sublimes para los que deliran por el suchi.
El Maestro del Omesake estuvo presente...supervisando todo el accionar..el cual nunca se detuvo...pues fue un desfile de exquisitos platillos...todos estuvieron espectaculares, pero siempre hubo unos más sobresalientes. Preferimos una cerveza clara al Sake..y al finalizar lo pactado, decidimos probar wagyu A5 !! No se lo pierdan...y pues sin duda repetirlas la experiencia. Saluti a tutti 😎.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №56

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №57

Authentic Japanese omakase style and great taste.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №58

Miso Cod is to die for! I recommend it to everyone. Staff is courteous and professional.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №59

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №60

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №61

Patrick elevated the experience. He’s a rare gem! Hats off to you and your team!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №62

Each piece of nigiri, plate of delicacy, and cup of liquid gold captures your fascination. The table conversation is naturally paused as you're drawn into its beauty, interested in the art piece laid in front of you. The hosts intricately begin to unravel the story as they expertly describe each component that went into the masterpiece: details about the source of ingredients, preparation process, and, most importantly, how to enjoy it in order to maximize the flavor, texture, and aroma.

All of your senses are awakened. Immediately your tastebuds welcome new sensations of savory, umami, sweet, gentle smoke, tangy, all backed with the warm heat of fresh wasabi. Some selections coat the mouth in velvet while others melt on the tongue to envelope it in a buttery yet light feeling. You discover that it's the small crunch that rounds the tasting for the most tender of fish. The fragrances slowly change as you continue to savor each and every second. You are left mesmerized, captivated by the mystery of how such a creation could be achieved.

The chefs are incredibly passionate about their craft. Their endless talent paired with a desire for adventure allows them to pursue new heights for omakase. Kusakabe's magical service and unimaginable food lead the way for a legendary experience. Their art must never be lost.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №63

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №64

This is truly the top of the mountain for your near-home trip to the best of Japan. Chef Nori San is a true master of the craft, with top vision, creativity, and execution. Kusakabe is a MUST.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №65

Wow!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №66

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №67

Another wonderful omakase restaurant in SF! Love the food and the hospitality of the chef. Only tiny problem is ambient noise made me not able to hear the chef clearly!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №68

Excellent omakase and phenomenal service.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №69

An excellent experience from the multiple appetizer rounds to the dessert. Choose the full 18 course vs the petit - you won't regret it.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №70

Service was very good, all the servers that brought out the dishes and sushi described everything that was being served. After you finish with your current course they clear your table expeditiously and serve the next course soon after so you’re not sitting very long without any food. Before our meal the server recommend a few sakes based on your personal flavor preference and let us sample some before we finalized what we wanted to drink for our meal.

Atmosphere was your typical high end modern omakase interior that primarily comprises of wood. We were seated at a table and it didn’t feel as intimate as other omakase restaurants where you get to converse with the chef. The server told us that counter seating was booked two months out so plan ahead if that’s the option you want to go for.

Food was good overall, they serve more non-sushi dishes than other omakase restaurants which reminded me of kaiseki style cuisine in Japan where they prepare dishes based on seasonality. The course where they bring you a plate of 9 different sides was plated really well and most of them were good and the ocean trout was my favorite. The zuke chutoro piece that came out first for the sushi portion was my favorite, all the others were good but I had better quality and flavor at other restaurants like Omakase or Hinata.

Overall I would give this restaurant a 4.2/5 and I did appreciate that they incorporated more Japanese dishes throughout the course if the meal.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №71

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №72

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №73

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №74

Had an great night with the full course omakase. Not much to say about the food besides that every dish was amazing. I really appreciated Chef Leo and the service that was provided.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №75

Honestly one of the best omakase I’ve had in the States. And it’s inexpensive! $198 for 18 courses without sacrificing any food quality and in SF downtown is simply amazing. This is a place I’ll definitely come back.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №76

left so full!!! everything tasted so good

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №77

Solid

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №78

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №79

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №80

We loved our experience at Kusakabe. You are treated like royalty and do not have to think of anything while there. If you want to live in the moment and enjoy 2 hours of bliss the this is the place for you.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №81

unforgettably delicious and special experience, with outstanding sushi, flavors, and service from start to finish!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №82

I just had the pleasure of dining at this gem of a restaurant, and I must say it was the best Omakase experience I’ve ever had. The dishes were not just fresh; they were a burst of flavors, each one meticulously crafted. I’d give it 10 stars if I could!
One thing to note, they exclusively offer Omakase, an 18-course culinary journey (you can do a paring of wine or sake) 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! ;) (I got too excited and forgot the good pictures)

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №83

Food was pretty disappointing for 200 a person, could get better at other places for 50

Service was really good though

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №84

Incredible omakase - we thoroughly enjoyed every bit of our 18 course meal. Can't wait to come back.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №85

The best dining experiences I've had this year.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №86

Always glad to be back at Kusakabe, bar seats this time, makes it better to chat with our chef and watch him in action.
We enjoyed every tuna nigiri, chutoro or otoro, smoked or not. Uni has always been one of our favorites, and the two uni nigiri from Kusakabe are excellent. The first one was presented with Hokkaido scallop, the texture of scallop and umami from uni makes a perfect pair. And the second one with double stacked uni from different regions is just pure joy. The flavor of a single uni is already luxurious, to have two uni that enhance one another while slightly different in both flavor and texture, is simply unforgettable. Worth noting its fish to rice proportion, it is one of the omakase places with less rice in all nigiris. Last but not least, Kusakabe can always nail a nice wagyu dish, both the Sukiyaki from last time and the charcoal grilled wagyu this time feel so satisfying from those amazing marbles.
As a non-traditional Kaiseki style omakase restaurant, Kusakabe makes San Francisco a better place for us Japanese cuisine lovers.

Follow my food account in Instagram: @bamboobone_food

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №87

2 hour omasake "experience" is lovely, creative and beautifully presented, but i feel like the salt overpowers a lot of the dishes. Appreciate the dinner but wouldn't come back.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №88

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №89

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №90

Amazing meal! Had the 15 course omasake and it was so good. I like sushi but there are many that I prefer not to eat, however, I tried everything and it was the best. So many items I can begin to describe it all. Just go!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №91

This was an amazing experience. We had the 12 course meal which consisted of a carefully curated mix of perfectly prepared delicacies. I highly recommend if you are looking for an amazing meal experience for a special occasion.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №92

Overall it’s a great omakase experience. Presentation and ingredients combination is creative! But, Otoro was icy??

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №93

It was my third time in Kusakabe. I was still impressed by the food quality, service, and friendly sushi chefs. Kusakabe is one of the best sushi restaurants in the city. Highly recommended.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №94

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №95

One of the best Omakase in the Bay Area. Traditional Kaseiki style. Great food and great vibe. Highly recommended.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №96

Incredible restaurant that I highly recommend. The balance of flavors was perfect, the flavors very varied, the staff very friendly and the service impeccable. We came for a special occasion and even received a gift at the end. You can go there with your eyes closed.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №97

The food is great, the service was great...

BUT, I can only give 3 star due to their tricky charging method. I prepaid in tock with weekday promotion price, but when I check out in the restaurant they recalculate the overall price(original price w/o promotion), and saying will deduct what I prepaid... with that methodology, I will be overcharged $50+($20x2 + tax + tips). I was able to figure out and ask them to redo the price with only the additional thing we ordered(2 cups of tea!!!), they admitted and apologized for messing up the price.

I can't say they did this to me intentionally, still l feel very uncomfortable because the pricing method they took is simply super weird. I will just be careful and cautious.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №98

Omakase is amazing. Highly recommend!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №99

I was able to visit Kusakabe a couple weeks ago for their 8PM seating.

There were a total of 18 courses (see pictures for courses, ordered from first to last). Each course is prepared by one of the sushi chefs at the counter, and placed in front of you. Each course was unique in presentation and taste, and the wait staff and chefs were enthusiastic in describing the fish used in each course, where they came from, and other such info.

There are two options for seating - either at the sushi counter, or at one of the tables. The counter seating is my preference, but was on a first-come, first-served seating (which we were lucky enough to get). Unlike some other omakase restaurants, parties were served their courses when they arrived and were ready, so there was no need to wait on other diners to finish a course. This gave the whole experience a much more relaxed feeling, as you were able to progress through the menu at your own pace, without feeling rushed or pressured.

Overall, this was an incredible experience, and well worth the price, in my opinion. Their menu changes once per season, so I'll look forward to seeing the differences whenever I next have a chance to visit.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №100

Too noisy but ok in US
Too salty
シヤリ very disappointed cuz シヤリ is core of sushi
Fish quality ok in US
Nice miso soup
Wine pairing recommend
Overated.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №101

Among the best omakase I've ever had

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №102

Excellent spot! Leo our chef was engaging and able to answer all our questions, food was excellent and thoughtfully prepared. Overall, service was excellent with servers doing little things in the background that made the pace and experience excellent.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №103

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №104

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №105

Very good omakase.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №106

It's been a while since I visited Kusakabe, and it still tastes great, with a noticeable effort put into each dish.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №107

Amazing food and experience celebrating my wife's Birthday. Each dish was beautiful and delicious. The staff was very friendly too. The petite omakaze was a great deal and all 3 of us were full and content after the dinner.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №108

My favorite Omakase in San Francisco - nicely presented amazing sushi, great service and small setting & intimate setting that feels like private dining. Having been to Kyoto, I can confidently say that Kusakabe makes me feel like I’m back there in the middle of San Francisco. I’m surprised Michelin overlooks this place because I definitely think it’s worthy of a star.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №109

Always the very best. Incredible sushi, incredible experience. Every piece is like eating art created by the artist right in front of you! And the chefs and staff are so warm and kind. Some of the most special dinners in my life.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №110

味道不错!停车需要停到附近的停车场。两个人点一瓶酒人均$350+,价格稍微有一些些贵。

寿司味道不错,shabushabu味道一般,前菜也没有那么经验。

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №111

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №112

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №113

Top sushi experience in SFO

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №114

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №115

Had the omakase and it was delicious. Food and service was excellent. Very reasonably priced considering the quality. Would definitely come back again.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №116

Excellent Kyoto style Sushi. Omakase was beautifully presented, well-organized, and delicous. The chefs and staff were knowledgeable, fun, and very accommodating. Will definitely return for another round next time in SF.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №117

Appetizers is amazing enough. Main dishes are even better

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №118

One of the best Omasake I’ve ever had in Bay Area

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №119

First time here and it was an absolute treat. Thoroughly enjoyed every course and everything they had to offer in their Omakase. The fish was SO UNBELIEVABLY FRESH, it would make a fisherman cry. The last part of the Omakase was fish that was flown in overnight from Japan. The flavors of everything that was brought together that evening was absolutely unforgettable. Truly worthy of celebration of any kind, or just if you want some damn GREAT FISH. Not good, GREAT.

The hostess was also so nice and so informative about everything. Bless her heart, she was so kind.

Only complaint is because of the old-laundry smell that our tablecloths had that evening. Other than that, the meal was astonishingly perfect. Will definitely return because the food was just SO GOOD.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №120

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №121

Some great dishes but some they tried too hard and they didn’t work well. Cracked a tooth from a shell in the uni. Wagyu was chewy.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №122

We had the Omakase at Kusakabe restaurant today. It was amazing and most delightful. The waiters were very attentive. We were placed at the bar next to master Okada San who prepared the sushi in front of us in the most skilful way. For me it was the second time at Kusakabe and again one of my best sushi experiences in my life. The Sake pairing was a very tasty and suitable pairing. Thank you ありがとう Arigato Okada SanとKusakabe San and the staff at Kusakabe restaurant.
Jan& Julia

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №123

In the middle I think but wow. So good and seems like we are in Japan.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №124

Been going here for years and never disappoints. Def fish forward, FRESH, and many dishes melt in your mouth.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №125

I had a horrible experience, in general I would not recommend. While we were waiting to be seated, we witnessed our reserved bar seats were given away to another party previously seated at the table because the floor manager might have thought we might not show up 1 min after reserved time...I don't know why four of us standing right there is so hard to miss. I could tell from his face that he knew he messed up as soon as I told him my reservation name. Putting that aside, the food is also mediocre, the best dish, surprisingly is the 9 dish appetizer. The otoro piece is so bad, the chef didn't cut it correctly making the piece very hard to chew. The pace is so fast, we were seated after all the parties at the bar but finished 2-3 dishes earlier than all of them, feeling rushed the whole way through. In general, I would not come back to this restaurant, I have better options not only from food quality perspective but also customer service.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №126

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №127

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №128

Unbelievable experience, I loved every minute

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №129

Excellent Kyoto style Sushi, Omakase was beautifully presented, every item tasted outstanding. Crew was competent and friendly. Not at all a stuffy venue.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №130

For the price, not as good as the ones in New York.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №131

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №132

One of the best dining experiences I’ve had in SF. We came here for my birthday, and had a wonderful dinner service from beginning to end. The Jidori Egg Shell Chawan Mushi was a highlight and a great way to kick off the omakase. Each course was balanced in flavor and texture, and the presentation was elegant. At the end, they even prepared us a farewell present. Simply amazing, would definitely come back.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №133

I have been here many times during covid. I usually have the omakase to go. Their sashimi is very interesting. Expensive but the quality is very good and you definitely feel full afterwards. The creativity is a bit lacking though because their nigiri combination never changed through my visits….

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №134

Un buen omakase en San Francisco. He probado mejores omakase por el mismo precio. Pero sin duda tiene mucha calidad y un menú completo.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №135

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №136

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №137

Always an awesome expirience!
Lovely people serving lovely food!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №138

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №139

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №140

Definitely deserves a Michelin star.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №141

We discovered this place by accident, and then experienced the best meal we’ve ever had in the Bay Area. From the service to the food quality, everything is perfect.
My favorite sushi: shima aji, sakura masu.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №142

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №143

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №144

Best omakese in SF! The quality, service, and the portion met our satisfaction.
Look forward to go back for next special occasion.
Expect to pay $200 per person without tip.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №145

Went there for birthday celebration. Good service and food. Would recommend.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №146

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №147

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №148

Great experience, amazing staff, had some stand out dishes! With a price of $200 for omakaze, it's hard to give this place a 5 star without every dish being mind blowing.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №149

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №150

2nd time at Kusukabe and it still holds up.

The chefs and staff are meticulous, and their service is on par with the best.

The Omakase is just as delicious as last time, being at the sushi bar is a must!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №151

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №152

Extraordinary staff/service and food!! Overall an amazing experience and will be coming back. Best Omakase I’ve ever experienced here in SF! ❤️

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №153

Disappointing experience, poor customer service, would not recommend. A friend made us reservations as a gift, but confused the day of the week when telling us, and we didn’t find out until the restaurant called when we didn’t show. They refused to move the reservation, saying the food had already been prepared. They offered to give it to us to go, which we agreed to, because we were offered no other option (a reservation change fee would have been fine).

They told us to come at a certain time to pick it up, but it wasn’t ready when we arrived, and we had to wait 20 minutes outside in the cold for our food. When it finally arrived, it was fairly underwhelming in presentation, and to be honest a bunch of it tasted outright bad (must need to be eaten super fresh).

I know the restaurant business is struggling post-pandemic, but this was a disappointing response to an honest mistake. We would have paid a reasonable change fee, but I guess they need the $$$$. Nothing we had was worth a star.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №154

Great experience. I just don’t like bluefin fat tuna shabu shabu. Enjoy all Nigiris. The highlight was the second plate, love yuzu onion sauce sashimi.

Update from 4 to 5 stars because I ate at Taneda tonight in Seattle. There is nothing Taneda can compare. Will revisit next time in San Francisco.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №155

Quite possibly the best meal I've ever had! We had the omakase and it did not disappoint. The quality of the fish was incredible and the taste almost moved me to tears. We also had the sake flight which has made me put a whole lot more 'respeck' on sake's name. It's not cheap but with quality and service like that, it is 100% worth it! The reviews simply don't do this place justice.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №156

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №157

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №158

Incredible experience, watching the dishes being made in front of you. Everything is super tasty. I wasn't a big fan of the starter, but after that, it was all perfection.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №159

Best omakase in SF

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №160

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №161

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №162

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №163

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №164

价有所值,第一次吃米其林吃饱。😂虽然被摘牌了。

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №165

Didn't know it was a flat fee of 185 and just sushi. Saw the Google menu when I made reservations! Turns out that's just a take out menu. Asked to get out of paying 400 plus for a dinner for 2 but they wouldn't let me. Turned out to be the best meal we ever had. But...

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №166

Outstanding in all aspects. Probably the best Wagyu sushi I’ve ever had. Excellent Sake recommendations and very thoughtful service. Wonderful Omakase experience.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №167

Omakase was amazing. Great deal for the amount of food they serve. Fresh and good variety of sushi. Can’t wait to go back again.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №168

Outstanding. Words cannot properly convey how impressed I was with the meal. This was our first omakase experience and it could not have been better. The chefs and the wait staff were top notch and friendly. Best meal of my life. Thank you!!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №169

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №170

Never disappoints! Love the innovative flavors and attentive staff.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №171

Great Japanese food. Had the omakase and was surprised at how much food was served, I left super full! The quality of the fish served was fantastic. Compared to other omakase I've tried, some of the flavoring/seasoning with shiso/soy sauce/wasabi was slightly overpowering the fish -- not my preference, but it wasn't horrible. The approach seemed to be more about marrying the two flavors of fish and seasonings together, rather than spotlighting the fish, if that makes sense.

All in all, would highly recommend this spot!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №172

Been to numerous high end omakase restaurants and I have to say, this was one of the best, if not, the best experience I’ve ever had. Starting from the ambiance, to the open bar seating with front row seat experience just absorbed by the sights of each sushi chef expertly crafting every single piece, working together in concert in a limited space, then explaining each piece to you before laying it out on your plate one by one…I thoroughly enjoyed every single bite. The flavors and textures were spectacular. Recommend to anyone looking into experiencing top quality sushi.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №173

Every bite was amazing!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №174

One of the best omakase experiences outside of Japan.

The service is friendly and warm, the food is superb from start to finish. It's a large meal too, so come with stomach space. Highly recommend the sake flight pairing.

I'm short, yes, lives up to the rumors and then some.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №175

Best Japanese restaurant in SF. I’ve tasted lots of Japanese dishes, but this one really surprised me. I will say every single piece here is comfortable. It is the first time I feel warm and comfortable when eating sushi. The different materials are combined so naturally. They balanced with each other well.
It was so great to be here. Thank you for the great experience.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №176

The worst management ever! Booked a reservation and on the day of arrival they text and say we need your vaccination card!! Why wasn't I told this when I made the reservations?? All the way from San Diego for this disappointment 😡 they canceled reservation.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №177

This was hands-down the best meal of my life. The attention to detail and artistry applied to every bite is unmatched, and the chefs and waitstaff are very warm and welcoming.

Every bite was accompanied with an explanation of each ingredient, and you could always tell that they were proud of what they were serving, as they should be.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №178

Amazing omakase experience!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №179

Always looking for the best sushi spot and keep coming back to this place. Chef Nori Kusakabe is a master at his craft. His omakase starts you off with a chu toro that blows your taste buds away. Get the sake pairing to add a crisp cleanse of the palate. Every piece takes you on a different journey with nigiri pieces so expertly crafted that one piece can hit a few different taste buds and leave you with another once you finish it. He mixes taste and texture so profoundly I’m always in awe. In the middle of the omakase there is an intermission for a few cooked plates before going back to the nigiri. Usually it’s a broth with fish and/or piece of wagyu. The environment is cozy/intimate and modern but it also pays homage to the history of the building through its exposed brick. Staff is very well trained and so kind. You really get the best service and sushi in the Bay Area.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №180

Stunning Omakase in a modern, well-apportioned space. We sat at the bar and received excellent attention from chefs and servers alike. The pacing of the meal was excellent and it was priced incredibly well.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №181

Out of the few omakase places in sf this one has the friendliest staff

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №182

One of my favorite sushi restaurants in SF. Excellent quality.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №183

They still offer pick-up/delivery options.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №184

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №185

Amazing! It was a lot of fun.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №186

Fantastic but the fish are dead.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №187

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №188

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №189

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №190

The food is amazing!! Will definitely visit again soon!!!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №191

The omakase dinner is expensive but worth the money. You get top quality Japanese food and the dining experience is great 👍

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №192

I dined at Kusakabe several times, and the most recent dining experience was so disappointing that I decided to go elsewhere for omakase experience from now on.

I understand Kusakabe isn't going for a Michelin star, but for the price you pay, my expectation for the the customer service was a bit higher than what I received on my recent visit. The worst part is, I had such an amazing experience on both food and customer service on my first visit, and none of my other visits were the same.

If you are going to make it hard to get the reservation, at least you should have a system to track how many times each guest has visited. Every time I go, i'm asked, first time here. But, let's say i give benefit of doubt knowing that there's a staff shortage these days, and Kusakabe isn't spending too much manpower in looking into those type of CRM.

I put down celebration for the occasion question, and someone reached out to me asking what we are celebrating as they were asking if we had any allergies. I just got engaged, so I shared with them that it's for an engagement celebration. Received a response saying can't wait to celebrate the engagement with us.

well, no acknowledgement at all on our engagement throughout the dinner. At least congrats would've been nice since you asked hahaha

Food was good as always, but there are great omakase places in the Bay Area who also provide a great customer service. Why pay the same amount of money to feel like we are on a "50 First Dates" lol..

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №193

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №194

Very good

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №195

Traditional omakase with premium ingredients and great technical preparation/presentation. Staff was polite/friendly. Some occasional fumbling here and there with the presentation of dishes. Sitting a the chef's table, however, was a delight. I was able to enjoy my meal in peace with occasional pleasant interactions with the chef reserved for information about the omakase. Placing the "reserved" tag/placard at my seat right before sitting was an unnecessary and awkward touch. Would definitely come here again.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №196

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №197

Phenomenal omakase experience. My wife and I went here for my birthday and absolutely loved the food. My favorite was the smoked bluefin tuna. Highly recommend!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №198

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №199

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №200

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Details
  • 19 sushi photos
  • 200 sushi reviews
  • 4.8 Sushi Rating
  • Reservations: +1 415-757-0155
  • Menu Website: http://www.kusakabe-sf.com/
  • Sushi Address: 584 Washington St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States
  • Sushi Map: 37.7957326, -122.40294379999999
Specialties
  • Japanese restaurant
  • Caterer
  • Kaiseki restaurant
  • Restaurant
  • Sushi restaurant
  • Sushi takeaway
Sushi Hours
  • Sunday: 5–9 PM
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 5–9 PM
  • Wednesday: 5–9 PM
  • Thursday: 5–9 PM
  • Friday: 5–9 PM
  • Saturday: 5–9 PM
Service options
  • Delivery: Available
  • Takeaway: Available
  • Dine-in: Available
Highlights
  • Great tea selection: Available
Popular for
  • Dinner: Available
  • Solo dining: Available
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance: Available
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating: Available
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet: Available
Offerings
  • Alcohol: Available
  • Beer: Available
  • Healthy options: Available
  • Spirits: Available
  • Wine: Available
Dining options
  • Dinner: Available
  • Catering: Available
  • Dessert: Available
  • Seating: Available
Amenities
  • Toilets: Available
Atmosphere
  • Cosy: Available
  • Romantic: Available
  • Trendy: Available
  • Upmarket: Available
Crowd
  • LGBTQ+ friendly: Available
  • Transgender safe space: Available
Planning
  • Reservations required: Available
  • Dinner reservations recommended: Available
  • Accepts reservations: Available
Payments
  • Credit cards: Available
  • Debit cards: Available
  • NFC mobile payments: Available
  • Credit cards: Available
Parking
  • Free of charge street parking: Available
  • Paid multi-storey car park: Available
  • Paid parking lot: Available
  • Paid street parking: Available
  • Parking: Available