Okaeri Japanese Bistro

Name: Okaeri Japanese Bistro
Address: 3515 20th St, San Francisco, California, 94110, US
Telephone: (415) 655-9588
Price range: $$
Rating: 4.5

$$$ • Sushi Bars, Japanese

Hours:
3515 20th St, San Francisco
(415) 655-9588

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About Okaeri Japanese Bistro

Okaeri Japanese Bistro is a popular spot in SF, known for its excellent sushi and cozy atmosphere. The restaurant offers a range of delicious dishes, including yuzu foam oysters, sake steamed clams, tuna tasting, o-toro nigiri, and various sushi rolls. The chef's selection of nigiri is a must-try, and the omakase experience is a great way to enjoy a special meal. The sushi at Okaeri is known for fresh fish and well-prepared rolls, reflecting high-quality ingredients. The staff is friendly and helpful, ensuring a pleasant dining experience even when arriving late. The intimate setting feels like a hidden gem, with a small bar area perfect for watching chefs craft each dish. The expanded space on 26th Street holds about 20-30 people, blending a minimalist yet lively vibe with dim lighting and an open kitchen that adds a smoky aroma from the charcoal grill. The menu features a dynamic omakase journey of seasonal ingredients alongside a la carte options like nigiri, sashimi, handrolls, and tempura. Highlights include yuzu foam oysters, a variety plate, several rounds of nigiri, handrolls, and tamago, all showcasing fresh, high-quality fish and creative presentations. Desserts like matcha panna cotta are phenomenal. Guests seated at the bar can enjoy a front-row view of the chefs at work, which is a must for omakase lovers. While prices are on the higher side, the quality and creative dishes justify the cost. Parking in the Mission is street-only and challenging, so public transit or rideshare is recommended. Overall, Okaeri Japanese Bistro offers an exceptional sushi experience with friendly service, a great atmosphere, and memorable meals that exceed expectations. The restaurant has received praise for its unique offerings, such as the mackerel gilded with uni and caviar, and the Toast, featuring Uni Cream-Toro Tartare + Uni Caviar on thick buttered toast. Diners have found the sushi rolls to be fresh and perfectly balanced, making Okaeri a standout choice for authentic Japanese food in San Francisco.