BUBU: San Francisco's Go-To for Fantastic & Affordable Japanese Happy Hour

BUBU Introduce

For residents of California, particularly those navigating the vibrant culinary scene of San Francisco, discovering a local eatery that combines exceptional quality with incredible value is always a win. BUBU, a Japanese restaurant conveniently located on California Street, has quickly become a beloved spot for exactly these reasons. It's not just a place to grab a bite; it's an experience, especially for those looking to enjoy fresh, delicious Japanese fare without breaking the bank.

BUBU has earned a stellar reputation for its fantastic offerings, particularly its much-talked-about happy hour. Diners consistently rave about the freshness of the fish and the deliciousness of all the food options available. It’s a testament to their commitment to quality, even amidst busy periods and incredibly competitive pricing. Whether you're a long-time sushi connoisseur or simply looking for a fun and engaging dining experience with friends, BUBU offers a compelling blend of taste, ambiance, and value that makes it a must-visit for locals.

Location and Accessibility

BUBU is strategically located at 2417 California St, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA. This address places it squarely within the charming and well-heeled Pacific Heights neighborhood, easily accessible from various parts of San Francisco.

The restaurant's location on California Street, a major thoroughfare, makes it quite convenient for both public transportation users and those driving. Numerous Muni bus lines operate along California Street and in the surrounding Pacific Heights area, providing easy access for locals from different districts. For those preferring to drive, street parking is available in the vicinity. While parking in San Francisco can sometimes require a bit of patience, the area around BUBU often offers more options compared to more congested downtown locations. The lively yet manageable atmosphere of Pacific Heights further enhances the appeal of visiting BUBU, whether for a quick happy hour bite or a relaxed dinner.

Services Offered

BUBU offers a diverse menu of Japanese cuisine, with a strong focus on fresh sushi and other popular small plates, all designed to be enjoyed in a lively setting. Their offerings cater to various preferences, including:

Sushi and Sashimi: A selection of fresh fish for nigiri and sashimi, often highlighted for its quality even within a value-driven context. Varieties include Salmon, Hamachi (Yellowtail), and various hand roll options.
Hand Rolls: A specialty at BUBU, particularly during happy hour, with a unique pricing structure that makes them exceptionally affordable ($5 for two handrolls, meaning $2.50 each). Options may include Salmon Skin Handroll, Negi Toro Handroll, Salmon Avocado Handroll, Spicy Tuna Handroll, and more.
Sushi Rolls: A range of classic and special rolls such as California Rolls, Spicy Tuna Rolls, Rockin' Roll (Unagi and Avocado), and deluxe options like Uni Toro O-toro Roll and Truffle Scallop Roll.
Appetizers and Small Plates: A variety of delicious starters perfect for sharing or enjoying alongside sushi. These include popular items like Takoyaki (octopus balls), Chicken Karaage (Japanese fried chicken), Shrimp Tempura, Chicken Gyoza, Sea Salt Edamame, Seaweed Salad, Roasted Brussels sprouts, and Shishito Peppers.
Fresh Raw Tastings: Specialty items such as Truffle Hamachi (yellowtail sashimi with truffle ponzu), Albacore Tataki, and Rainbow Carpaccio, showcasing fresh fish with unique flavor profiles.
Udon Noodle Soups: A selection of comforting udon bowls including Garden Tempura Udon, Shrimp Tempura Udon, Tofu Teriyaki Udon, and Niku Udon.
Donburi Bowls: Rice bowls topped with fresh sashimi or other ingredients, such as Tekka Don (bluefin tuna over rice) and Chirashi Don (variety sashimi over rice).
Beverage Options: A selection of Japanese and domestic alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including Asahi and Sapporo beer, hot sake, and refreshing options like the Yuzu Sparkler.
Vegan Options: The restaurant offers a few dedicated vegan options and can often make some dishes vegan, catering to plant-based diets.
Dine-In Service: Providing a fun and inviting ambiance for an enjoyable meal, perfect for pairs or small groups.
Takeout/Delivery Service: Available through platforms like Uber Eats, allowing customers to enjoy BUBU’s offerings at home.

Features / Highlights

BUBU has several standout features that contribute to its popularity and make it a favorite among San Francisco locals:

Unbeatable Happy Hour Deal: This is arguably BUBU's biggest draw. With many food and drink options priced at just $5 each (or $2.50 per handroll when ordering two), it offers exceptional value for money, especially in San Francisco. The happy hour is available both early evening and late night, making it very flexible.
Fresh Fish Quality (Especially for the Price): Despite the affordable pricing, customers consistently highlight the freshness and good taste of the fish, noting it's "excellent for the price point."
Fun and Inviting Ambiance: The restaurant offers a lively and pleasant atmosphere that contributes to an enjoyable dining experience. It's often described as a fun place to be, especially with friends.
Efficient and Friendly Service: Even when busy, the staff (sometimes just two individuals managing the whole place) are praised for providing good service and handling waiting lists effectively, ensuring a relatively smooth experience.
Unique Hand Roll Pricing: The "two for $5" hand roll deal is a particular highlight, making these popular items incredibly accessible and encouraging diners to try multiple varieties.
Variety of Drink Options: Beyond standard Japanese beverages, the happy hour includes various alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for $5, such as Asahi, Sapporo, hot sake, and refreshing options like the Yuzu Sparkler.
Good for Groups (with a caveat): While excellent for pairs or smaller groups (especially during happy hour), larger groups may need to split up to be seated, as noted by a reviewer. However, the overall experience remains positive.
Vegan-Friendly Offerings: The presence of specific vegan options and the ability to adapt dishes demonstrates their consideration for diverse dietary preferences.

Promotions or Special Offers

BUBU's most significant and consistent promotion is its renowned Happy Hour. This offer is available at specific times, making it accessible for both early dinner and late-night cravings:

Monday - Thursday: Happy Hour starts at 4:30 PM.
Friday - Sunday: Happy Hour starts at 3:30 PM.

During happy hour, a wide selection of food and drink options are priced at just $5 each. This includes:

Various sushi items: select sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri.
Hand Rolls: advertised as $5 for two, meaning each handroll is effectively $2.50. You do not have to order an even number of handrolls.
Hot food items: such as Chicken Karaage, Takoyaki, and possibly other appetizers.
Drink options: including Asahi, Sapporo, and hot sake.

This happy hour deal is consistently praised by customers as an incredible "steal" due to the excellent quality of the food at such a low price point. It's highly recommended to "come early (or late)" to take full advantage of these fantastic savings.

Contact Information

For those eager to experience the fantastic offerings at BUBU, here’s how you can connect with them:

Address: 2417 California St, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA

Phone: (415) 796-3376

Given the popularity of their happy hour, especially on weekends, it's a good idea to consider arriving early or late during the happy hour windows to ensure a smoother seating experience, particularly if you are in a pair or small group. While they manage waiting lists well, arriving strategically can enhance your visit. For takeout or delivery, checking third-party delivery apps like Uber Eats (where their menu and pricing are often available) is a convenient option.

Conclusion: Why BUBU is Suitable for Locals

For San Francisco locals, BUBU stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended Japanese dining spot. Its primary appeal lies in the rare combination of high-quality, fresh Japanese cuisine and an incredibly affordable price point, especially during its generous happy hour. In a city where dining out can often be an expensive affair, BUBU provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy delicious sushi, hand rolls, and other Japanese favorites without breaking the bank.

The "fun ambiance" and "good service," even when busy, create a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. It's the kind of place where you can comfortably bring a friend or two for a casual yet satisfying meal. While there might be marginally "better fish" at higher price points in the city, the overall quality-to-price ratio at BUBU is consistently highlighted as "unbeatable." For anyone in San Francisco craving fresh sushi, delightful Japanese appetizers, and refreshing drinks in a lively setting that offers fantastic value, BUBU on California Street is undeniably a local gem that promises a truly rewarding dining experience.

BUBU Menu

Entrée
Angus BT Entrée US$20.00
Grilled angus ribeye beef, housemade teriyaki sauce, seasonal vegetables, green onion, sesame seeds, steamed rice plate.
Tonkatsu Entrée US$16.00
Panko fried pork cutlet, side katsu sauce, seasonal vegetables, green onion, sesame seeds, steamed rice plate.
Salmon Teriyaki Entrée US$18.00
Grilled salmon filet, housemade teriyaki sauce, seasonal vegetables, green onion, sesame seeds, lemon, steamed rice plate.
Saba Shioyaki Entrée US$16.00
Grilled mackerel fillet, seasonal vegetables, green onion, sesame seeds, lemon, steamed rice plate.
A-5 BT Entree US$200.00
Grilled A-5 Miyazaki Wagyu fatty beef 8oz, house-made teriyaki sauce, seasonal vegetables, green onion, sesame seeds, steamed rice plate.
Chicken Teriyaki Entrée US$16.00
Grilled chicken, housemade teriyaki sauce, seasonal vegetables, green onion, sesame seeds, steamed rice plate.

Deluxe Sushi Rolls
Surfin Turfin Roll US$20.00
Flame seared a-5 wagyu and uni topped, crab avocado roll.
Buttercup Roll US$16.00
Flame seared butterfish, house aioli topped, spicy tuna roll, black tobiko.
Crunchy Lobster Roll US$25.00
Lobster tempura over baby lobster salad sushi roll. Kewpie mayo, tobiko.
Rainbow's Fancy End Roll US$25.00
Fancy style rainbow roll with uni, ikura, topped.
Truffle Scallop Roll US$20.00
Hokkaido scallop topped, mild spicy scallop roll, black truffle sauce.
Uni Toro O-Toro Roll US$25.00
Flame seared fatty bluefin tuna belly and uni topped, fatty bluefin tuna roll.
Tsukiji Giant Tekka Roll 4 Pieces US$18.00
Freshly chopped hon maguro tuna of lean and fatty cuts, fresh wasabi and seasoning, giant futomaki style.

Nigiri Sushi
Albacore Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces white tuna, sushi rice.
Hamachi Toro Nigiri US$10.00
2 pieces yellowtail belly, sushi rice.
Amaebi Nigiri US$9.00
2 pieces sweet Canadian spot prawn, fried heads, sushi rice.
Inari Nigiri US$5.00
2 pieces deep fried tofu skin braised in sweet dashi, sushi rice.
Kampachi Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces amberjack, sushi rice.
Uni Nigiri US$15.00
2 pieces sea urchin, sushi rice.
Hon Maguro Otoro Nigiri US$15.00
2 pieces fatty bluefin tuna belly, sushi rice.
Ma-Saba Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces Japanese mackerel, sushi rice.
Wagyu A-5 Nigiri US$15.00
2 pieces Japanese fatty beef, sushi rice.
Albacore Toro Nigiri US$10.00
2 pieces white tuna belly, sushi rice.
Smoked Salmon Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces smoked salmon, sushi rice.
Kani Nigiri US$12.00
2 pieces snow crab leg meat, sushi rice.
Ika Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces squid, sushi rice.
Unagi Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces BBQ eel, unagi sauce, sushi rice.
Tsubugai Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces Japanese crunchy welke, sushi rice.
Tobiko Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces flying fish eggs, sushi rice.
Ao-Ebi Nigiri US$9.00
2 pieces colanodian blue prawn, fried heads, sushi rice.
Hon Maguro Akami Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces lean bluefin tuna, sushi rice.
Sake Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces salmon, sushi rice.
Tamago Nigiri US$5.00
2 pieces sweet egg omelette, sushi rice.
Ikura Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces salmon eggs, sushi rice.
Walu Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces Hawaiian butterfish, sushi rice.
Hon Maguro Chutoro Nigiri US$9.00
2 pieces medium fatty bluefin tuna belly, sushi rice.
King Salmon Nigiri US$9.00
2 pieces king salmon, sushi rice.
Hotate Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces hokkaido scallop, sushi rice.
Sake Toro Nigiri US$9.00
2 pieces salmon belly, sushi rice.
Hamachi Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces yellowtail, sushi rice.
Aka-Ebi Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces giant deep red hokkaido prawn, sushi rice.
Hon Maguro Tsuke Nigiri US$7.00
2 pieces soy marinated bluefin tuna, sushi rice.
Ankimo Nigiri US$9.00
2 pieces steamed monkfish liver, sushi rice.

Sushi Rolls
Snow California Roll US$15.00
Whole snow crab leg meat, avocado, sushi rice, seaweed.
Soy Paper Tofu Roll US$10.00
Tofu fries, sushi rice, sesame dressing, sesame seed soy paper.
Kabocha Roll US$7.00
Vegetarian. Tempura Japanese golden pumpkin, avocado, sushi rice, seaweed.
Spicy Walu Roll US$9.00
Butterfish, avocado, spicy aioli, sushi rice, seaweed.
Spicy Scallop Roll US$10.00
Scallop, avocado, spicy aioli, sushi rice, seaweed.
Spicy Hamachi Roll US$9.00
Avocado, spicy aioli, sushi rice, seaweed.
California Roll US$6.00
Imitation crab meat, avocado, sushi rice, seaweed.
Rainbow Roll US$14.00
Assorted sashimi top, imitation crab and avocado roll.
Tekka Roll US$9.00
Bluefin tuna, sushi rice, seaweed.
Dragon Roll US$14.00
Unagi top, shrimp tempura and avocado roll, unagi sauce, sesames seeds.
49ner Roll US$14.00
Salmon, lemon slivers top, salmon and avocado roll.
Avocado Roll US$6.00
Avocado, sushi rice, seaweed.
Super California Roll US$12.00
Deep fried whole California roll, crab, avocado.
Shrimp Tempura Roll US$10.00
Shrimp tempura, avocado, sushi rice, seaweed.
Rocking Carb Roll US$15.00
BBQ eel, crab, avocado, sushi rice, tobiko seaweed.
Cucumber Roll US$6.00
Persian sweet cucumber, sushi rice, seaweed.
Lion King Roll US$14.00
Baked roll with salmon, creamy spicy aioli top, imitation crab and avocado roll, unagi sauce, tobiko.
Tuna Salmon Hamachi Roll US$16.00
Maguro red tuna, salmon, hamachi, avocado, tobiko, sushi rice, seaweed.
Salmon Avocado Roll US$7.00
Salmon, avocado, sushi rice, seaweed.
Double Hamachi Roll US$14.00
Flame seared yellowfin tuna top. Yellowfin tuna and avocado roll, tobiko, scallion, crispy fried shallots, ponzu.
Firecracker Roll US$10.00
Deep fried spicy tuna maki roll, fresh mango dices, sweet chili sauce, tobiko.
Spicy Salmon Roll US$7.00
Salmon, avocado, spicy aioli, sushi rice, seaweed.
Spicy Tuna Roll US$7.00
Maguro red tuna, avocado, spicy sauce, avocado, sushi rice, seaweed.
Tempura Avocado Roll US$9.00
Deep fried avocado, sushi rice, seaweed.
Tamago Roll US$10.00
Sweet egg omelette, Kewpie mayo, sushi rice, seaweed.
Caterpillar Roll US$14.00
Avocado top, unagi roll, unagi sauce, sesame seeds.
Ume Shiso Roll US$6.00
Pickled Japanese red plum, fresh shisho mint, sushi rice, seaweed.
Philly Roll US$9.00
Smoked salmon, cream cheese, avocado, sushi rice, seaweed.
Rockin Roll US$7.00
Unagi, avocado, sushi rice, seaweed.
Salmon Roll US$7.00
Salmon, sushi rice, seaweed.
Lion Queen Roll US$16.00
Baked roll with scallop, mozzarella cheese, aioli top, imitation crab, avocado roll, unagi sauce, tobiko.
Super Dynamite Roll US$12.00
Deep fried whole roll with cream cheese, crab meat, spicy tuna.

Donburi
Katsu Don US$14.00
Panko fried pork cutlet, caramelized onion, freshly cracked over runny egg, seaweed, green onion, sesame seeds, steamed rice bowl.
Teriyaki Chicken Leg Don US$10.00
Grilled two whole chicken leg and thigh, house made teriyaki sauce, seasonal vegetables, green onion, sesame seeds, steamed rice bowl.
Seafood Curry Don US$25.00
Whole lobster tail, shrimp, scallop, mussels, Japanese mild curry, seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onion, steamed rice bowl.
Teriyaki Tofu Don US$10.00
Sautéed firm tofu, housemade teriyaki sauce, seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onion, sesame seeds, steamed rice bowl.
Katsu Curry Don US$15.00
Panko fried pork cutlet, side Japanese mild curry, green onion, steamed rice bowl.
Wagyu Beef Teriyaki Don US$150.00
Grilled 8oz A-5 wagyu beef, house-made teriyaki sauce, seasonal vegetables, green onion, sesame seeds, steamed rice bowl.
Gyudon US$15.00
Thinly sliced rib-eye beef, sweet soy braised with caramelized sweet onion, seasonal vegetables, green onion, sesame seeds, steamed rice bowl.
Oyako Don US$14.00
Braised tender chicken thigh cuts, mushroom, caramelized onions, freshly cracked over runny egg, green onion, sesame seeds, steamed rice bowl.
Grilled Veggie Don US$10.00
Vegetarian. Grilled seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onion, sesame seeds, steamed rice bowl.

Sashimi
Albacore Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces white tuna.
Aka-Ebi Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces hokkaido jumbo sweet red prawn, tobiko, lemon.
Unagi Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces BBQ eel, unagi sauce.
Hotate Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces hokkaido scallop.
Ikura Sashimi US$15.00
House cured salmon roe.
Hamachi Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces yellowtail.
Kani Snow Crab Sashimi US$20.00
5 pieces hokkaido snow crab leg meat.
Ika Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces fresh squid.
Amaebi Sashimi US$25.00
5 pieces Canadian sweet spot prawn, tobiko, fried heads, lemon.
Walu Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces Hawaiian butterfish.
Uni Sashimi US$30.00
5 pieces sea urchin.
Ao-Ebi Sashimi US$25.00
5 pieces french blue prawn, tobiko, fried heads, lemon.
Hon Maguro Akami Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces bluefin tuna lean cut.
Sakae Sashimi US$12.00
5 pieces salmon.
Ma-Saba Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces Japanese mackerel.
Ankimo Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces steamed monkfish liver.
Sakae Toro Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces salmon belly.
King Salmon Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces king salmon.
Kampachi Sashimi US$15.00
5 pieces amberjack baby hamachi.
Hon Maguro Otoro Sashimi US$30.00
5 pieces bluefin tuna under belly cuts.
Hon Maguro Chutoro Sashimi US$20.00
5 pieces bluefin tuna medium fatty cuts.

Omakase Nigiri
7 Pieces Classic Nigiri US$20.00
Salmon, tuna, hamachi, albacore, scallop, walu, amaebi.
7 Pieces Omakase Nigiri US$35.00
Uni, toro, wagyu, and 4 chef choice nigiri.

Salad, Tofu and Greens
Green Gyozas US$9.00
Vegetarian. Pan fried spinach wrapped potstickers with a filling of edamame, tofu and basil, lemon ponzu dip.
Roasted Brussels US$8.00
Vegetarian. Seasoned brussel sprouts slow roasted with olive oil, house honey balsamic vinaigrette drizzle.
Sea Salt Edamame US$6.00
Vegetarian. Steamed soybean in pods tossed with sea salt.
Avocado Salad US$9.00
Vegetarian. Half large avocado chunks, Persian cucumber, tomatoes over spring mix. Honey miso dressing.
Garden Tempura US$10.00
Vegetarian. Seasonal colorful vegetables in light batter, deep fried, tempura sauce dip.
Seaweed Salad US$6.00
Vegetarian. Marinated seaweed over a light spring mix, cherry tomatoes, lemon ponzu dressing, sesame seeds.
Garden Salad US$5.00
Vegetarian. Spring mix salad with cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, topped with house sesame dressing.
Shishito Peppers US$10.00
Vegetarian. Grilled mild Japanese peppers, katsu sauce, fried shallots, green onions and sesame seeds.
Mozuku Seaweed US$6.00
Vegetarian. A silky black variety of thin angel hair like okinawa anti-aging seaweed with a light vinaigrette dressing.
Gomae Aspara US$6.00
Vegetarian. Blanched tender blanched asparagus, sesame ponzu dressing.
Truffle Mushroom Tempura US$12.00
Vegetarian. Seasonal mix of wild mushrooms battered and deep fried, black truffle seasoning, Kewpie mayo.
Garlic Edamame US$7.00
Vegetarian. Sautéed soybeans in pod with freshly chopped garlic and soy butter sauce.

Dessert
Ice Cream Scoop US$5.00
Green tea or vanilla.
Lava Cake N Icecream US$10.00
House chocolate cake, hot fudge center, side vanilla ice cream.
MochiMochi US$6.00
2 pieces ice cream mochi, fresh berries, fruit, whipped cream, mint.
Taiyaki N Matcha Ice Cream US$8.00
Sweet red bean filled fish-shaped hot waffle, fresh berries and fruit, side matcha green tea ice cream.
Mixed Macaroons US$6.00
3 pieces macaroons, fresh berries, whipped cream, mint.
Green Tea Cheesecake US$5.00
Green tea cheese slice, fresh berries, fruit, whipped cream, mint.

Bento Sets
Three Items US$22.95
Two Items US$17.95

Fresh Raw Tastings
Rainbow Carpaccio US$15.00
Chef's colorful fish sashimi slices, yuzu ponzu, tobiko.
Ankimo US$15.00
House fresh steamed monkfish liver with sake rice wine served cold sliced, scallion ponzu.
Truffle Hamachi US$18.00
Yellowtail sashimi, tomatoes, avocado, truffle ponzu dressing, extra virgin olive oil, fried shallots.
Spoonful Of Happiness US$12.00
A spoon of uni, ikura, oyster in ponzu truffle oil.
Albacore Tataki US$10.00
Flamed seared albacore cubes, yakiniku sauce, scallion, tobiko, yuzu ponzu.
Maguro Mango Poke US$15.00
Bluefin sashimi, fresh mango, seaweed, house poke dressing, tobiko, ponzu, fried shallots, sesame seeds.

Drinks
Red Bull US$4.50
Mango Lemonade US$4.50
Fresh lemons, mangoes, mango juice, mango jelly, mint.
Diet Coke US$2.50
A crisp, refreshing taste you know and love with zero calories.
San Pellegrino Sparkling Water US$3.50
Coke US$2.50
The cold, refreshing, sparkling classic that America loves.
Brown Sugar Boba Milk Tea US$7.50
Tapioca boba, okinawa brown sugar, whole milk, black tea.
ITO EN Oolong Tea US$3.50
Bottles unsweetened oolong tea.
Sprite US$2.50
The cold, refreshing flavors of lemon and lime, perfectly blended.
Fuji Bottle Water US$3.00
ITO EN Jasmine Tea US$3.50
ITO EN Oh-Cha Green Tea US$3.50
Lychee Black Tea US$4.50
Freshly brewed black tea, lychee, mint.
Thai Ice Tea US$5.00
Freshly brewed strong thai tea, sugar, half and half.

Sides and More
Spicy Kimchi Miso Soup US$4.00
Kimchi, miso, green onion.
Shiitake Miso Soup US$4.00
Miso, shiitake mushrooms, seaweed, green onion.
Steamed Rice US$3.00
Sushi Rice US$4.00
Mixed Whole Grains Rice US$4.00
Clam Miso Soup US$10.00
Fresh clams in shell, miso, seaweed, green onion.
Brown Rice US$3.00
Side Pickles US$5.00
Kew tou, umeboshi, pickled cucumber, red radish, etc.
Side Kimchi US$3.00
Fermented napa cabbage.

Omakase Sashimi
15 Pieces Omakase Sashimi US$25.00
Five variety of sashimi, combination may vary upon market availability.
30 Pieces Omakase Sashimi US$55.00
Ten variety of sashimi, combination may vary upon market availability.

Ramen Noodle
Katsu Curry Ramen US$15.00
Panko fried pork cutlet, mild curry, seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onion, ramen noodles, spicy garlic chili pork bone broth.
Karaage Ramen US$14.00
Crispy fried tender juicy chicken bites, half egg, seasonal vegetables, green onion, ramen noodles, spicy garlic chili shoyu chicken broth.
Grilled Veggie Ramen US$15.00
Vegetarian. Grilled seasonal vegetables seaweed, green onion, ramen noodles, rich.
Tonkotsu Ramen US$15.00
Two thick cut tender braised pork belly, lightly crisped outside, half egg, seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onion, ramen noodles, rich slow cooked pork bone broth, black garlic oil.
Shoyu Beef Ramen US$15.00
Grilled beef, seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onions, ramen noodles, shoyu soy broth.
Spicy Miso Chicken Ramen US$12.00
Grilled chicken, half egg, seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onion, ramen noodles, spicy garlic chili miso chicken broth.

Sashimi Don
Sakae Oyako Don US$25.00
Salmon sashimi, salmon eggs, sushi rice bowl.
Uni Ikura Don US$50.00
Uni, uni, uni, ikura, ikura, ikura, shiso, sushi rice bowl.
Fancy Chirashi Don US$35.00
Variety sashimi, uni, toro, ikura, seaweed, sushi garnish, sushi rice bowl. Combination may vary upon market availability.
Chirashi Don US$25.00
Variety sashimi, seaweed, sushi garnish, sushi rice bowl.
Tekka Don US$25.00
Bluefin tuna, lean, medium, fatty cuts, seasoning, sushi rice bowl.

Kitchen Appetizers
Garlic Salmon Kama US$10.00
Grilled garlic salmon collar, asparagus, lemon, ponzu.
Glazed Wings (6 Pieces) US$9.00
Dry fried wings coated with honey garlic soy.
Giant Calamari US$16.00
Whole Japanese calamari seasoned and grilled tender, served with spicy mayo dip.
BBQ Maui Short Ribs US$16.00
Hawaiian style marinated short ribs grilled with fresh pineapple.
Miso Sea Bass US$18.00
Buttery chilean sea bass baked with honey and light miso, seasonal vegetables.
Uni Shiso Tempura US$18.00
Sandwich style tempura with layers of fresh shiso leaves stuffed with uni inside, 2 pieces.
Lobster Tempura US$20.00
Whole lobster tail, shishito peppers, onion, battered and deep fried, spicy mayo, tobiko, green onions.
Giant Bluefin Tuna Kama US$35.00
Bluefin tuna collar, lemon, ponzu.
Takoyaki US$8.00
Savory and crispy fried round shells filled with a batter of octopus chunks and spices, katsu sauce, Kewpie mayo, seasoned seaweed, bonito flakes.
Large Hamachi Kama US$20.00
Grilled yellowtail collar, asparagus, lemon, ponzu.
Chicken Gyozas US$8.00
Pan fried Japanese style chicken potstickers with side of garlic ponzu dip.
Fried Oysters (5 Pieces) US$10.00
Panko fried hokkaido umami oysters, lemon wedge.
Chicken Kara-Age US$8.00
House recipe crispy fried marinated chicken bites tossed in a light teriyaki glaze.
Small Hamachi Kama US$15.00
Grilled yellowtail collar, asparagus, lemon, ponzu.
Shrimp Tempura (5 Pieces) US$12.00
Lightly battered shrimp, deep fried crispy.
Soft Shell Double Crab US$12.00
Crispy fried two whole jumbo soft shell crab.
Sake Butter Clams US$15.00
Steamed fresh clams in shell with butter and sake rice wine, wakame seaweed, scallions, clam essence and sake broth.

Udon Noodle Soup
Asari Clams Udon US$15.00
Fresh whole clams steamed with butter and garlic, seaweed, udon noodles, soy dashi broth.
5 Shrimp Tempura Udon US$15.00
Deep fried shrimp in tempura batter, seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onion, udon noodles, soy dashi broth.
Tofu Teriyaki Udon US$12.00
Vegetarian. Sautéed firm tofu, teriyaki sauce, seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onion, udon noodles, soy dashi broth.
Grilled Veggie Udon US$12.00
Vegetarian. Grilled seasonal vegetables, light seasoning, seaweed, green onion, udon noodles, soy dashi broth.
Garden Tempura Udon US$12.00
Vegetarian. Deep fried tempura vegetables, seaweed, green onion, soy dashi broth.
Curry Beef Udon US$12.00
Japanese style mild curry beef stew, seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onion, udon noodles, soy dashi broth.
Katsu Udon US$14.00
Panko fried pork cutlet, caramelized onion, freshly cracked over runny egg, seaweed, green onion, udon noodles, soy dashi broth.
Niku Udon US$12.00
Sweet soy braised thinly sliced rib-eye, caramelized sweet onion, seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onion, udon noodles, soy dashi broth.
Inari Sweet Tofu Udon US$10.00
Vegetarian. Fried tofu skin braised in sweet soy, seasonal vegetables, seaweed, green onion, udon noodles, soy dashi broth.
Oyako Udon US$16.00
Braised tender chicken thigh, mushroom, caramelized onions, freshly cracked over runny egg, green onion, udon noodles, soy dashi broth.

BUBU Details

Service options
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Happy-hour drinks
Healthy options
Small plates
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Table service

Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet

Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments

Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid street parking

BUBU Photos

BUBU Location

BUBU

California San Francisco County San Francisco Lower Pacific Heights California Street

2417 California St, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA

BUBU Reviews

Fantastic in every sense! Come early (or late) for the happy hour, starting at 4:30pm on M-Th or 3:30pm F-Su. All of the $5 food options were delicious, and the fish all tasted fresh. The service was good despite just two folks handling the whole place, including the waiting list. Fun ambience, and drink options (Asahi, Sapporo, hot sake, NA) for $5 as well. Can’t wait to come back with a friend! (Would recommend coming in pairs)
December 31 · Andy Lutz
Came here twice. The first time as a group of 4, we had to split up into two groups of 2 in order to get seated before last call. The second time, we were lucky to be the last pair to be seated at the last call at 9:15pm! For both times, we only ordered from the happy hour menu. Overall the food quality gets a 4-4.5 but the happy hour deal is such a steal. I've had better fish but this is excellent for the price point. The takoyaki is okay--my standard is Yama Chan's in Japantown. The yuzu sparkler really quenched my thirst (had a workout prior), would def recommend a try. We actually wanted more of this when we got home after lol.One thing to note is that they advertise $5 hand rolls, but it's $5 for two, i.e. each handroll is 2.50! You do not have to order an even number of handrolls. I got 7. Everything else on the HH menu is $5.
March 31 · Johnny Auyoung
Came for happy hour and loved it! Got four handrolls, 6 pieces of crispy rice topped with fish (crispy bubu), miso soup, rice, salmon kama, and two cups of tea for $50! Would definitely come back!
April 12 · Madison Jean
It was good to go happy hour the service was quick and like how fast they make the food so overall great experience
May 27 · Cece hom
I dined at BUBU with a group of friends and it was an incredible experience. The energy of the restaurant is unpretentious, with a hole-in-the-wall look right next to Mollies Market. We were able to comfortably fit a group of 7 for an awesome dining experience.To start, we orderd tempura and it was amazing. I haven’t had brussel sprouts/mushrooms for tempura and was pleasantly surprised. I would’ve loved if we had some of the standard tempuras though, sweet potato, carrot, broccoli, etc. But was still so yummy! I must also say the cripsy rice was DIVINE! I hve no idea how they did this. The rice was pillow-y and the fish was so fresh.For mains we ordered the house sushi boat for the table and devoured everything. Tempura Udon came with a whole bowl of noodles PLUS another tempura bowl. OMG. For $15 it is such a steal! The happy hour times are also awesome. We would definitely come back here to order everything off the menu.Thank you BUBU! We will be back.
September 17 · Jacqueline N