Bay Area’s Best Sushi
By Carmen Guan
Ah, sushi. Who knew something so simple could be so damn delicious? Whether it be nigiri, sashimi, or maki, you really can't go wrong. This Japanese meal is a favorite amongst many and we've got a list of the best sushi in the Bay.
San Francisco
3856 24th Street
This quaint Noe Valley establishment is a favorite amongst locals. Though seating is pretty limited, the menu more than makes up for that. We recommend the Hamachi Truffle and a few tasting spoons!
1910 Lombard Street
Though Chef Roger's methods might be a little unorthodox and veers a little bit away from the traditional approach to sushi, there's nothing puzzling about Zushi Puzzle. It's just good sushi without all the frills.
138 Minna Street
Tucked away inside the understated John Colins bar is this 20 seat sushi bar with a lively atmosphere. We recommend the midori roll or the spicy himachi roll. But for a little SF pride? Giants roll.
Ryoko's Japanese Restaurant & Bar
619 Taylor Street
Leave it to Ryoko's to give us something we never knew we needed — a sushi bar with a little edge. With a DJ packed into this basement sushi restaurant, the vibes are always high. (Not to mention the fact that the food is on point.)
1283 9th Avenue
There's a good reason why Ebisu has been standing for 30+ years. Owners, Steve and Koko Fujii, pride themselves in consistency — from the food to the service. No gimmicks here. Just sushi, straight up.
1234 Noreiga Street
Treat yourself to a sushi restaurant that can do it all. Not craving their hamachi or dragon roll? Then help yourself to their bento boxes, beef amiyaki, or sukiyaki. Choice is yours.
2317 Chestnut Street
Sushi isn't the only thing that shines in the posh Mamanako restaurant. Try their fancy cocktails, crispy rice appetizers and sliders, then ease right into your food coma.
665 Townsend Street
Omakase is the Japanese word for a meal comprised of dishes selected by the chef, which is exactly what you're going to get here. Choose the Hideaki or Yamato Omakase and these expert chefs will prep a meal that is to die for!
3064 24th Street
Fresh seafood without the pretension, Basa is a seafood market and restaurant offering a wide range of dishes like clam chowder, poke, smoked salmon, fish and chips, and a hell of a lot more.
2001 17th Street
Using fresh fish flown in from Tsukiji Fish Market, Live Sushi Bar gives "fresh" a whole new meaning. Combine that with a unique and novel menu, and voila! Your new, go-to sushi spot! Be sure to check out the Live Sushi Bistro too, located in Potrero Hill
Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar and Izakaya
370 14th Street
Marrying plant-based cuisine with sushi, Shizen approaches ocean conservation through environmental friendly dining. Ingredients include tapioca, mountain yam, konjac, bean curd, and other vegan ingredients. Make sure to look out for the "suprise ending"!
East Bay
2100 Ward Street // Berkeley
High-quality fish is what Kirala is all about. You can do no wrong ordering from the robota grill, sushi bar or fully cooked menu. We recommend getting the scallop nigiri (or any of the nigiri to be honest) or the chirashi bowl!
2566B Telegraph Avenue // Berkeley
Kiraku is an izakaya dining experience, meaning you order your drinks first, then order your dishes a few at a time! This concept encourages diners to truly taste all the flavors of Kiraku's fresh small bites. We recommend the uni, albacore tataki, and the salmon carpaccio!
532 Grand Avenue // Oakland
There's a simple formula Coach Sushi follows that all restaurants should take note of. Good sushi + bottomless sake served in a wooden box. Qui playing, and visit this Oakland staple!
3260 Grand Avenue // Oakland
If you're looking for a good roll, Mijori's is the way to go! Check out their special rolls menu and dig in. They even provide complimentary miso soup! We recommend the Island Roll or the Bay Scallop Roll.
161 41st Street // Oakland
One of Oakland's best, Geta's sushi is affordable and extremely tasty. With so many options to choose from, you'll definitely have a unique meal every time you come here. This spot is pretty small and they don't accept reservations, so we suggest coming early!
North Bay
107 Caledonia Street // Sausalito
One of the best sushi spots in the Northern Bay Area, Sushi Ran serves up some of the highest quality fish around. Great textures and tastes in the sashimi and nigiri options. Everything is beautifully presented and the service is lovely.
1631 Lincoln Avenue // Calistoga
Sushi Mambo offers a laidback approach to their atmosphere, but don't get it twisted. Owner Jose Cazares means serious business, offering traditional and innovative sushi as well as country style Japanese cuisine.
425 Miller Avenue // Mill Valley
This low-key Japanese joint offers excellent sushi at great prices. Customers love the great staff, fresh fish, and extensive menu of amazing sushi options! We recommend the Nigiri Moriawase or the Crunchy Hamachi appetizer!
1367 N. McDowell Boulevard // Petaluma
Come for the superb sushi, stay for the excellent ambiance. This simple and modern Japanese restaurant is complete with a fireplace, various art pieces, and a rock wall behind the sushi bar. Order one of their amazing rolls or two and you'll be stuffed.
SOUTH BAY + PENINSULA
224 N Abel Street // Milpitas
With fresh fish, quick service, and other delicious offerings, it only makes sense that this spot always has a long waiting list, even just 30 minutes after opening.
56 W Santa Clara Street // San Jose
The sushi is great but it's the ambiance that really takes the cake. The cutest spot to hit up for date night or before a night around Downtown San Jose.
547 W Capitol Expressway // San Jose
Be sure to come hungry when you head o this San Jose staple because the rolls are HUGE. Great place to share rolls with family and friends and leave no fish behind.
218 E 3rd Avenue // San Mateo
We give major props and appreciation to Sam and his sushi. Whether you order Omakase or pieces a la carte, Sushi Sam's offers some of the best in the South Bay Area. Great selection, great prices. We recommend the toro, hands down.
115 De Anza Boulevard // San Mateo
If you're looking to treat yourself, definitely come to this one Michelin star restaurant. Wakuriya's extremely elegant decor and exceptionally tasty sushi makes this a meal you'll never forget. Call ahead because this place is always booked.
741 Laurel Street // San Carlos
Seiya is a contemporary Japanese establishment that features great ambiance and of course, delicious sushi. The fish here is extremely smooth and fresh, and you'll be wanting to come back every time.
** This article was originally published by Do The Bay. CLICK HERE to view the full article.