NIHON
San Francisco, CA 94103
Phone: (415) 552-4400
- Price:
- $$
- Cross Street:
- 14th Street
- Hours:
- Mon-Sat 6pm-12am, Bar open until 2am
Editorial Review for NIHON – by Jen Robbins
The Scene
Faux cobblestone floors, beige brick walls, illuminated panels and rich woods make for a highly texturized atmosphere, while high ceilings and exposed beams lend an industrial vibe. In the lounge, well-dressed 20-somethings sprawl out on cushy, pillow-filled banquettes and mod chairs that surround low tables. A loft-like upstairs dining room overlooks the bar below, which is lined with hundreds of back-lit bottles.
The Food
The focus here is on izakaya cuisine--small plates commonly served in Japanese bars--but the creative fare could just as easily be found in pricier abodes. Style and presentation are emphasized: Goma ae arrives with spinach formed into small discs and arranged in a pyramid; paper-thin slices of raw halibut come topped with a dollop of caviar, accompanying soy sauce in a hollowed-out lime; and sushi rolls, stuffed with ingredients like spicy roe and fresh fish, come artistically arranged on oblong and mod-style plates.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoReservations are recommended, but if it's too busy to get a seat, ask to eat in the lounge. You can also snag a table in the private room by ordering a bottle of whiskey (which can be conveniently stored for your next visit).
Save MoneyStop by for happy hour, daily from 6pm to 7pm, for half off all appetizers and salads.
What to DrinkMixed drinks, wine, beer and sake are available, but the impressive list of more than 120 bottles of whiskey, with more than 80 single malts, steals the show.
User Reviews for NIHON
12/06/2007 Posted by speakeasy32
I realize we all have different tastes and not everyone is going to like the same things, but I've gone here five plus times and the food is always excellent. I like it better than Sushi Groove, Ozumo, Mas Saki, etc. I love the spicy tuna. Most rolls that I have tried are excellent and are always fresh. Everyone I have taken here (friends from out of town) have liked it. The reason it is not 5 stars is because the service can be slow at times and the waitresses don't always check on you that often. The bartender downstairs can be slow too. That has been pretty consistent with all the times that I've been there. Overall, I think most people would like the food here. Those people complaining about small portions don't have a clue. Just as the review says it is izakaya cuisine so they serve in small portions. It can be pricy on certain items so if you are looking for a cheaper dinner, this may not be the place for you. Good mix of folks from Mission hipsters to white collar workers. I hang out with both types so it suits me just fine. Hope this helps.
Pros: Food, Food, Food....it's excellent. Good drinks and a great Whiskey selection
Cons: Service, Bartenders
07/13/2007 Posted by zanetheory
I went to this restaurant because people gave it such great review, but it wasn't even that great nor was the food spectacular. I really wouldn't recommend this restaurant to anyone that is trying to dine somewhere nice with friends or spouses. But they do have a huge whiskey menu if that's what your into.
Pros: whiskey menu
Cons: food
