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San Francisco

Diners frequently praise Nisei for its innovative Japanese-American cuisine, attentive service, and intimate ambiance. Standout dishes include the pine nut miso soup and the uni egg custard. Some reviewers note the high price point and small portion sizes.

Nisei located at 2316 Polk Street in San Francisco's vibrant Polk Gulch neighborhood, is a culinary destination where Japanese tradition meets American innovation in a refined and intimate dining setting.

Discover Nisei: San Francisco's Japanese-American Culinary Gem at Polk Gulch District.

 with Chef David's innovative thirteen-course tasting menu at Nisei.

Celebrate modern Japanese-American gastronomy

Exceptional dining experience and thoughtful culinary craftsmanship

Nisei's menu is a masterclass in creativity and precision, offering guests a remarkable journey through expertly crafted dishes like expertly prepared venison, elevated miso soup, and chowder. The kitchen honors traditional flavors while reinventing classics, evident in the extraordinary attention given to even simple dishes such as the egg fried rice. The experience culminates with indulgent desserts like pumpkin cheesecake and silky pudding, rounding out a complete culinary adventure.

Whether you prefer traditional Japanese-American dishes or are a vegetarian seeking thoughtfully designed alternatives, Nisei excels in accommodating diverse tastes without compromising on innovation or quality. The vegetarian tasting menu stands equal to the main menu in creativity and execution, showcasing Chef David's commitment to an inclusive dining experience.

An unforgettable atmosphere with attentive service

Step into an intimate setting where every detail is designed to enhance your dining journey. The friendly and knowledgeable staff provide attentive service that makes you feel like royalty. From personalized interactions with Chef David to the warm ambiance perfect for special occasions, Nisei ensures that each visit is memorable beyond the plate.

 As of January 3, 2023, the tasting menu is priced at $223 per person, excluding tax and service charge.

 Yes, a 20% service charge is applied to the base price of each experience.

Do they accommodate dietary restrictions?

 Nisei can accommodate most severe allergies with advance notice; however, due to the tasting menu format, not all dietary restrictions or aversions can be met.

Community sentiment and dining highlights

Diners consistently praise Nisei for its inventive Japanese-American cuisine, especially spotlighting the pine nut miso soup and the uniquely crafted uni egg custard. The restaurant's intimate ambiance and attentive service are frequently celebrated, creating a perfect setting for date nights or special celebrations. While some note the premium price and smaller portion sizes typical of Michelin-starred tasting menus, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, making Nisei a must-visit culinary experience in San Francisco.

: pine nut miso soup, uni egg custard, venison tataki, black sesame cheesecake.

: intimate and perfect for date nights or special occasions.

: attentive, knowledgeable, and personal interactions with Chef David.

North America

United States

Nestled in the vibrant Polk Gulch neighborhood of San Francisco, Nisei is a Michelin-starred restaurant that artfully combines Japanese culinary traditions with American innovation. Located at 2316 Polk St, this dining establishment is renowned for its exquisite thirteen-course tasting menu, crafted by Chef David, which showcases a remarkable array of flavors and presentations. Whether you are a fan of traditional Japanese dishes or looking for a unique vegetarian experience, Nisei promises a memorable culinary journey.

At Nisei, guests can indulge in a meticulously curated menu that highlights the chef's creativity and attention to detail. Key features include:

Thirteen-course tasting menu featuring innovative dishes like venison and elevated miso soup.

Vegetarian tasting menu that offers thoughtful alternatives without compromising on creativity.

Signature dishes include egg fried rice, pumpkin cheesecake, and a variety of beautifully presented desserts.

Conveniently situated in the heart of San Francisco, Nisei is surrounded by a plethora of attractions that enhance your visit. Nearby landmarks include:

The historic San Francisco City Hall, known for its stunning architecture.

The lively Union Square, perfect for shopping and entertainment.

The iconic Golden Gate Park, offering beautiful landscapes and recreational activities.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmeFoyaTRBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYSfspPSBhYARcVCbbkjGXg0/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmeFoyaTRBRRAB

At Nisei, Chef David masterfully bridges Japanese tradition with American innovation through an impressive thirteen-course tasting menu. Each dish showcases remarkable creativity, from the expertly prepared venison to the elevated takes on miso soup and chowder. The kitchen excels at classics too – the egg fried rice proves that even simple dishes receive extraordinary attention, while desserts like the pumpkin cheesecake and pudding provide perfect endings.

What truly sets Nisei apart is its commitment to all diners. The vegetarian tasting menu matches the main menu's innovation and excellence, with thoughtful alternatives that never feel like afterthoughts. Both menus demonstrate Chef David's culinary vision, expertly executed by an attentive, knowledgeable staff.

Whether you're a traditionalist or vegetarian, Nisei offers a unique and memorable perspective on modern Japanese-American dining.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYdm96UlBBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYSfspPSBhYARcVCbbkjGXg0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURYdm96UlBBEAE

I came here for a date night and didn't realize it was a Michelin Star.

Good:
- So much variety with the courses - we started with small bites and ended with giant portions of meat and 3 dessert courses
- The dishes all were so pretty and aesthetic
- Super nice service - each waiter was incredibly nice and helped us - the chef David even came up to us and started a conversation! We felt like we were royalty there
- The uni cocktail was amazing - it was nice that we shared it with 2 people
- The ambiance is so nice, we were there for almost 3 hours and felt like we had a private conversation

Bad:
- Expensive! $37 for one drink

Overall this was an amazing experience, I felt from start to finish that it was a unique food journey.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfeHFqUHh3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYSfspPSBhYARcVCbbkjGXg0/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNfeHFqUHh3RRAB

Could not recommend this place enough. The food was amazing, the chef was fantastic, and the service was probably the best I have ever experienced. If you are in San Francisco and looking for a culinary experience, go to Nisei!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIcjQtdEV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYSfspPSBhYARcVCbbkjGXg0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIcjQtdEV3EAE

I have to say that this is very hard to rate 1 star as the food is nice and delicious. The atmosphere is perfect for dating. But the all the dishes is very very small for a person. I understand that this is Michelin star restaurant and people more concern about the quality and the presentation of the food. But above all of that, chef has to make sure that all customers need to be full after their dinner. This is the most important point and the most disappointing dinner I have compared to the money that I pay. I felt so hungry after the dinner. The 13 course of the dinner is just like 1 dish of appetizer and I had to go to another restaurant to eat right after getting with my fiancé. If the chef increase the portion of the food in every dishes, it will be much better, compared to $250 a person for a dinner, the small portion is unacceptable.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIbE5DaUh3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJYSfspPSBhYARcVCbbkjGXg0/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIbE5DaUh3EAE

TL;DR: A Memorable Dining Experience with a Few Tweaks Needed**

I recently had dinner at Nisei, and it was definitely an experience to remember. The Summer 2024 menu had a lot to offer, and most of it was fantastic. The Sakura tea was a standout—delicate, a bit savory and refreshing.

The Ikebana seasonal greens were a surprise hit for me. The freshness of the baby greens, combined with the salted cherry, made it a dish I didn’t know I needed. I loved it! The Pine nut miso soup was hands down the best soup I've ever had—so rich and full of flavor.

However, there were a couple of dishes that didn’t quite work for me. The wagyu was served in a pho-like style, which made it lose some of that special wagyu quality. I would have much preferred it charred or even raw, where the richness of the meat could really shine.

I also tried the caviar, which was amazing, but it was tough to eat with the charred mochi. I think it would have been better with something more stable, like mochi crackers, to really enjoy it without the struggle.

The rest of the meal was pretty great too. The Venison tataki with ponzu and berries was a great mix of flavors, the corn dish with the baby popcorn was so cute, and the Black sesame cheesecake with strawberry and goat cheese was the perfect way to end the night.

Overall, Nisei offers a special dining experience with some incredible dishes. There were just a couple of things I’d tweak, but it’s definitely worth a visit.

Michelin-Star Nisei: Premium Japanese-American Dining in Polk Gulch, SF

Opened in August 2021, Nisei earned its first Michelin star within six months.

Discover the exceptional rise of Nisei on Polk Street, San Francisco.

Nestled in the vibrant Polk Gulch neighborhood of San Francisco, 

 burst onto the culinary scene in August 2021, quickly capturing the attention of food lovers and critics alike. Within just six months of opening its doors, this innovative restaurant proudly earned its first Michelin star, marking it as a rising star in San Francisco's competitive dining landscape.

 Nisei officially opened in August, bringing a fresh perspective to Japanese-American fusion cuisine in the city.

 The restaurant was honored with its first Michelin star, a testament to its extraordinary culinary innovation and quality.

Today, Nisei stands as a beacon of culinary artistry, expertly blending traditional Japanese flavors with American creativity to craft a unique dining journey. The attention to detail and innovative tasting menus continue to delight discerning guests, making it a must-visit destination for foodies, trend-conscious travelers, and anyone seeking an unforgettable experience in San Francisco.

Restroom

Live Music

Outdoor Seating

Curbside Pickup

Nisei is a vibrant restaurant located in Polk Gulch, San Francisco, offering a unique blend of traditional Japanese cuisine and global flavors. The inviting atmosphere and meticulously crafted dishes create an unforgettable dining experience.

Nisei

A 13-course tasting menu featuring over 18 bites, highlighting the pinnacle of Japanese-American cuisine.

Croquette

Dorayaki

Matsutake Suimono

Scallop

Unagi

Ichiju Sansai

Kakigōri

Nisei Tasting Menu

Experience a culinary journey at Nisei, where the 13-course tasting menu masterfully fuses traditional Japanese flavors with innovative American techniques. This exquisite menu offers over 18 thoughtfully crafted bites that showcase the very best of contemporary Japanese-American cuisine, set in the vibrant Polk Gulch neighborhood of San Francisco.

Begin your meal with the delicate Croquette, featuring creamy potato paired with luxurious uni and a smoky pepper relish that teases the palate and sets the tone for a sophisticated dining experience.

Savor the masterful mains including Matsutake Suimono, a pristine clear broth enriched with aromatic matsutake mushrooms, and the tender Scallop dish, accented by crunchy pine nut granola and a rich pine nut miso sauce. The Unagi entree offers grilled eel complemented by shishito peppers and seasonal summer squash for a harmonious balance of flavors. Meanwhile, Ichiju Sansai presents a comforting miso broth with striped bass, accompanied by pickles and rice, exemplifying refined umami.

Conclude your meal with artful desserts such as the Dorayaki, a delicate pairing of banana and caviar that balances sweetness with a savory surprise. For a refreshing finale, indulge in Kakigōri—shaved ice topped with pear sorbet, puffed rice balls, and a drizzle of ginger syrup, delivering a perfect blend of texture and subtle spice.

Complement your tasting experience with carefully curated cocktails and drinks, including unique options like the signature uni cocktail that perfectly matches the innovative spirit of Nisei’s cuisine. The attentive service and elegant ambiance make every visit a memorable occasion, ideal for food enthusiasts and special celebrations alike.

 flavors, meticulous presentation, and a menu that celebrates both tradition and innovation make Nisei a must-visit destination for discerning diners. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or curious traveler, this San Francisco gem offers a unique, immersive taste adventure that honors Japanese culinary heritage with a contemporary twist.

Savor authentic Japanese cuisine at Nisei in Polk Gulch, San Francisco. Indulge in exquisite flavors and vibrant atmosphere. Reserve your table today!

Nisei: Authentic Japanese Dining in Polk Gulch, SF

San Francisco County

Refined pairings to complement the tasting menu.

Wine and Sake Pairings

Available for parties of 6 or more in the private Kimono Room.

Private Dining

Discover Nisei on Polk Street in San Francisco's Polk Gulch District.

Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Polk Gulch neighborhood, Nisei is a culinary gem that redefines modern Japanese-American dining. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers an exquisite thirteen-course tasting menu crafted by the visionary Chef David, who seamlessly blends traditional Japanese techniques with innovative American flavors.

 ranges from delicately prepared venison and elevated spins on miso soup to expertly crafted chowders and the surprisingly exceptional egg fried rice. Desserts such as pumpkin cheesecake and creamy puddings offer the perfect finale to this culinary journey.

What truly distinguishes Nisei is the inclusiveness of its offerings. The vegetarian tasting menu rivals the main menu in creativity and flavor, ensuring that non-meat eaters experience the same level of craft and innovation without compromise.

Enhance your meal with refined wine and sake pairings thoughtfully selected to complement each course. For $50, these pairings elevate the flavors and add an extra layer of sophistication to your dining experience. Nisei also offers an exclusive private dining space—the Kimono Room—for groups of six or more, perfect for intimate celebrations or business gatherings.

 - Refined pairings to complement the tasting menu priced at $50.

 - Available for parties of six or more in the elegant Kimono Room at no additional charge.

Nisei provides a sophisticated ambiance perfect for date nights or special occasions. The attentive and knowledgeable service team ensures every guest feels like royalty, with Chef David himself often engaging diners. While some find the portions modest, the emphasis is on quality, artistry, and a multi-sensory food journey rather than quantity.

Located at 2316 Polk Street, Nisei is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking an extraordinary fusion of Japanese culinary heritage and American creativity in San Francisco. Reservations are recommended due to its popularity and intimate setting.

California

Experience innovative Japanese-American dishes at Nisei in Polk Gulch, SF. Enjoy a 13-course tasting menu, cocktails, and intimate atmosphere.

Nisei San Francisco: Michelin-Star Japanese-American Cuisine

Discover Nisei in San Francisco offering a unique tasting menu, vegetarian options, and private dining for an unforgettable culinary journey in Polk Gulch.

Nisei in SF: Top Rated Culinary Experience & Fine Dining

Learn about Nisei, opened in 2021 in Polk Gulch, SF, earning its first Michelin star in 2022. Innovative cuisine, attentive service, and a cozy setting await.

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