Nestled discreetly on the second floor of a modest building in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Japantown, Yuji is a hidden gem that promises a unique omakase dining adventure. This intimate Japanese restaurant captivates food lovers with its thoughtfully curated 10-course tasting menu, blending traditional flavors with innovative twists. Chef Yuji’s expertise shines through dishes that are prepared in various styles — from raw to grilled to fried — offering a delightful palette of tastes and textures.
Yuji’s menu evolves seasonally to showcase the freshest ingredients and the chef’s mastery developed over 25 years of culinary experience. Signature dishes, like the seiko kani — a rare female Japanese snow crab bursting with roe — and the exquisitely grilled Chilean sea bass, have won over many patrons. The uni soba with a creamy, foamy texture offers a sublime harmony of flavors that guests describe as an “indescribable orchestra.” Whether you prefer hearty warm dishes or delicate sashimi, each course is crafted to impress and satisfy.
Intimacy is at the heart of the Yuji experience. With just nine seats at the omakase bar, diners enjoy personalized attention from Chef Yuji and friendly servers in a serene, speakeasy-like setting. The discreet entrance and no-sign policy add to the exclusive feel, making every visit feel like a secret discovery.
Beyond the exceptional food, guests appreciate the thoughtful service and the cozy ambiance that fosters a deep connection to the artistry on their plates. Though the restaurant is located upstairs and may not be wheelchair accessible, patrons often find the journey rewarding, with parking available nearby in Japantown plaza lots and street parking options.
- What is the price per person? $158 per person for the omakase tasting menu.
- How long is the meal? Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Is there parking available? Street parking is available; however, parking can be challenging.
- Is the restaurant wheelchair accessible? The restaurant is located on the second floor and may not be wheelchair accessible.
- Do they accept reservations? Yes, reservations are required and can be made up to two weeks in advance.
Yuji has earned an overwhelmingly positive reputation among diners who cherish its authentic Japanese culinary craftsmanship and the intimate dining atmosphere. Guests frequently praise the quality of ingredients, meticulous execution, and the engaging experience of Chef Yuji’s omakase. While the unassuming entrance may keep it under the radar, those in the know consider Yuji a must-visit destination for a distinctive, high-quality Japanese dining experience in San Francisco.
Nestled in the heart of San Francisco's vibrant Japantown, YUJI is an intimate nine-seat kappo-style restaurant that has swiftly become a hidden gem for aficionados of authentic Japanese cuisine. Opening its doors in April 2022, YUJI took over the revered OzaOza space, marking a new chapter for fine dining enthusiasts seeking a unique omakase experience beyond traditional nigiri.
Seasonal and thoughtfully curated omakase menus at YUJI showcase an array of cooking techniques — from raw and grilled to fried delicacies — all crafted using premium, fresh ingredients. The intimate setting, coupled with a speakeasy vibe and a humble no-sign entryway, creates an exclusive atmosphere that invites guests to savor every nuanced flavor and texture.
Since its inception in 2022, YUJI has quickly earned acclaim for its delicate bites and exceptional culinary craftsmanship. In 2024, the restaurant gained notable mention in the prestigious Michelin Guide, highlighting its dedication to refined flavors and quality. This recognition cements YUJI's status as a must-visit destination for gourmands exploring San Francisco's Japanese culinary scene.
YUJI's seating is limited to just nine guests, offering an intimate and personal omakase journey. The restaurant's speakeasy charm is enhanced by its discreet entrance situated on the second floor of a modest building in Japantown. Guests must arrive at their appointment time to gain access through a locked metal gate, reinforcing the exclusive and curated nature of the dining experience.
The menu changes seasonally to highlight fresh produce and seafood, featuring standout dishes such as the female Japanese snow crab with roe, grilled Chilean sea bass, and an exquisitely crafted uni soba. YUJI's offerings extend beyond sushi, favoring a variety of cooked preparations that satisfy both traditional palates and adventurous foodies alike.
- Intimate setting with only nine seats ensures personalized attention and an immersive dining experience.
- Innovative kappo-style cuisine that includes a diverse range of cooking methods and seasonal ingredients.
- Recognition by Michelin Guide in 2024 affirms its status as a destination for refined Japanese dining.
Located in the vibrant Japantown neighborhood of San Francisco, YUJI is an intimate Kappo-style restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. With only nine seats, this hidden gem focuses on seasonal omakase menus, showcasing high-quality ingredients prepared in various styles. Guests can expect a delightful array of flavors, from grilled dishes to delicate sashimi, all crafted with precision and care.
The restaurant has garnered attention for its personalized service and has been positively reviewed across multiple platforms, making it a noteworthy destination for food enthusiasts.
• Authentic Kappo-style Japanese cuisine
• Intimate nine-seat dining experience
• Seasonal omakase menu
• High-quality, fresh ingredients
• Personalized attention from the chef
• Mentioned in the Michelin Guide
• Positive reviews across multiple platforms
• Limited seating with no reservations accepted
• No takeout or delivery options
• Not wheelchair accessible due to second-floor location
• Parking can be challenging
• Food enthusiasts seeking a unique dining experience
• Special occasions and celebrations
• Intimate dinners with friends or loved ones
• Reservations are recommended due to limited seating
• The restaurant is located on the second floor with no signage
• Parking is available at the Japantown plaza lot
• There are no restrooms inside the restaurant
YUJI offers a remarkable dining experience that combines intimate settings with exceptional Kappo-style cuisine. While it may not be the most accessible option due to its location and limited seating, the quality of the food and the personalized service make it a worthwhile visit. For those looking to explore unique flavors and enjoy a curated meal, YUJI stands out as a top choice in San Francisco's culinary scene.
