30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Japanese in San Francisco
Master Critic Review
Ganji
7.9
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Quick Bites Champions
Comfort-forward katsu and udon specialist drawing steady crowds for crisp cutlets and hearty noodle bowls. It’s a reliable Japantown option for casual lunches and easy group meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork katsu curry, Tempura udon, Chicken nanban
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Golden, crackly katsu with generous portions and fast pacing.
Who should go: Casual lunchers and groups
When to visit: Late lunch to dodge peak lines
What to order: Pork katsu curry, tempura udon, chicken nanban
Insider tip: Add a soft-boiled egg to boost any udon bowl.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Garage parking available in Japan Center with direct access to the mall; street parking fills quickly on weekends.
Dress code: Casual—comfortable attire fine for lunch or dinner; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—busy during meal rushes but still fine for conversation.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes during peak hours; put your name in and browse nearby shops.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait except right at noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable tempura, curry rice, and udon with veggies available.
Vegan options: Limited—few dishes can be adapted by omitting broth or sauce components.
Gluten-free options: Limited—most fried items use wheat flour; plain rice and salads are safer picks.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual or early-stage dates than romantic evenings—comfort food focus and bright, busy atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Write your name on the list and expect short waits at meal peaks.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—plenty of family tables, high chairs available, and mild menu options that work well for children.
Best For
Better for: Crispier katsu and faster service than nearby udon or curry spots—ideal for quick, filling meals.
Skip if: You’re looking for high-end sushi or an omakase experience; this is more comfort-casual dining.
Hours
Monday12pm - 8pm
Tuesday12pm - 8pm
Wednesday12pm - 8pm
Thursday12pm - 8pm
Friday12pm - 10pm
Saturday12pm - 10pm
Sunday12pm - 8pm