San Francisco Restaurants
A Dining Destination
The culinary scene in the immediate vicinity of Kimpton Hotel Enso is to dine for. Whether you want to grab a quick drink, pick up a pick-me-up pastry, or settle in for a multi-course meal, we've got recs for you. Find the best restaurants in Japantown and beyond with this handy guide.
Restaurants
- Octavia: This cozy neighborhood restaurant, set in a light-soaked space in Pacific Heights, is known for spotlighting the Bay Area's agricultural bounty.
- Sasa: At this sushi spot, live on the edge and order the Mystery Box, which puts your dining fate in the very capable hands of the chef.
- State Bird Provisions: Make a reservation to eat at this Michelin-starred restaurant, where the menu is constantly changing but invariably inventive. (The state bird, by the way, is quail.)
- The Progress: Another Michelin-starred masterpiece from the husband-and-wife team behind State Bird Provisions, The Progress offers up creative New American dishes served family-style.
Cafes and Bakeries
- Jina Bakes: is a local Japantown bakery just two blocks from the hotel.
- B. Patisserie: Pastries are the star of the show at this French-style bakery, showcasing exquisite cakes, entremets, tarts, macarons, and more. Don't miss the buttery, sugar-crusted kouign amann.
- Crown & Crumpet: Go for afternoon tea at this stylish spot and indulge in finger sandwiches, scones, crumpets, and bite-sized sweets and treats. Plus tea, of course!
- Jane the Bakery: Carb lovers, you've come to the right place. This Lower Fillmore bakery has all the bread you could want, from sourdough and spelt miche to ciabatta and chocolate hazelnut babka.
- Matcha Café Maiko: Grab an Instagrammable treat at this café, known for its soft-serve swirls that are as eye-catching as they are tasty.
Bars
- Brass Tacks: Not only are the cocktails delish at this laidback bar in Hayes Valley, but it's dog-friendly, too. Win-win!
- Festa: Order a lychee martini and get ready to sing your heart out at this Japantown karaoke bar, which offers an international selection of tracks.
- Mogura: This chill sake bar also specializes in shochu and whiskey, along with offering seasonal cocktails, izakaya bites, and karaoke.
- The Snug: The Snug's website suggests you “come for a drink, stay for a bite,” but don't sleep on the small plates of comfort food that pair nicely with unique cocktails, local beer, and wines on tap.