Sebo
San Francisco, CA 94102
Phone: (415) 864-2181
- Price:
- $$
- Cross Street:
- Octavia Street
- Best of Citysearch:
- Japanese Food 2006, Sushi 2006
- Hours:
- Tue-Sat 6pm-10:30pm
Editorial Review for Sebo – by Joanna Currier
The Scene
Lovers of "Americanized" sushi dining (sake bombs and California rolls) might choose another venue; this elegant Hayes Valley raw fish bar and restaurant adheres to strict authenticity, despite all-American chef/owners Michael Black and Daniel Dunham. The low-lit space features rich mahogany tables, subtle avocado walls, backlit Japanese screens and clean, geometric lines throughout. A seven-seat sushi bar is superbly helmed by the owners at the back.
The Food
The limited, seasonal menu of specialty sashimi and nigiri (big eye maguro, honmaguro ootoro, shirauo) sets the bar for freshness, quality and presentation, and comes only sparingly--and exquisitely--garnished. The chefs ask that diners resist "drowning" their premium offerings in soy sauce, which, along with fresh ginger, is available only by request or recommendation. And for good reason: this fish is the real, eye-popping deal. Choosing from the small list of maki (rolls) seems almost a shame.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkThe outstanding--albeit pricey--sake list compiled by True Sake's Beau Timken is a bouquet of diverse, complex standouts.
Know Before You GoReservations are not accepted.
The ExtrasFive-or-seven-course "omakase" (literally, "to entrust") sushi bar experiences are available for $60 or $80.
User Reviews for Sebo
06/04/2008 Posted by awong425
What a wonderful sushi mecca! The fish is incredibly fresh, and the sushi chefs extraordinary. Although the sushi bar only seats 6, it is worth waiting for a seat at the bar. Without a doubt, the prices are very expensive. I highly recommend the Omakase, but be prepared to spend close to $100 without alcohol. Is it worth it? You bet! This is not the place to get a quick bite and run. This meal should be an adventure. Plan to spend some time and put your trust in the hands of the sushi chef! The choice of fish depends on what was available in Japan that morning. There were many types of fish that I have not seen before. They make their own blend of soy sauce, and use a premium sushi rice. If you have a chance, read a book called "The Zen of Fish." A fabulous book on the history and art of sushi. Then, go to Sebo and enjoy!
Pros: Outrageously amazing sushi prepared by sushi masters.
Cons: Outrageously expensive.
02/24/2008 Posted by pookapooka
This is the tastiest sushi in san francisco! Perfect portion size and so fresh and flavorful. A little expensive, but well worth it.
