Elephant Sushi Introduce
For sushi aficionados and casual diners alike across California, particularly within the vibrant culinary landscape of San Francisco, finding a sushi restaurant that truly stands out can be a delightful endeavor. In the heart of Hayes Valley, Elephant Sushi has carved out a reputation for delivering an exceptional and flavorful dining experience that consistently earns rave reviews. Far from being just another sushi spot, Elephant Sushi offers a blend of creative rolls, delicious drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere that transforms a meal into a memorable occasion. Even those initially "skeptical" about its authenticity quickly become converts, praising the "flavorful and delicious" food that makes the dining experience "worth it."
Elephant Sushi has become a beloved fixture in San Francisco's competitive restaurant scene, known for its consistent quality and innovative approach to sushi. Patrons frequently highlight not only the amazing taste of the sushi and drinks but also the overall fantastic atmosphere. If you're in the Bay Area and looking for a sushi experience that combines culinary excellence with a great vibe, Elephant Sushi comes "highly recommend" – just remember to "save room for dessert, they’re all amazing!"
Elephant Sushi is conveniently located at 400 Grove St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA. This address places it in the charming and artistic Hayes Valley neighborhood, a vibrant district known for its boutique shops, trendy restaurants, and proximity to cultural landmarks like Davies Symphony Hall and the War Memorial Opera House. Its location makes it an ideal pre-show dinner spot or a destination for a relaxed meal after exploring the area.
The accessibility of Elephant Sushi is a significant benefit for diners throughout San Francisco. Grove Street is well-served by MUNI public transportation, with several bus lines operating nearby, offering convenient connections from various parts of the city. While there isn't a direct BART station in Hayes Valley, the Civic Center/UN Plaza BART station is within a comfortable walking distance, linking the restaurant to the wider Bay Area transit network. For those who choose to drive, street parking can be found, though it's typical for a popular San Francisco neighborhood to require some patience in finding a spot. Several parking garages are also available within the vicinity. The appealing ambiance of Hayes Valley itself, with its tree-lined streets and bustling activity, adds to the overall pleasant experience of visiting Elephant Sushi.
Elephant Sushi is dedicated to providing a high-quality and convenient dining experience for all its patrons. Their services are designed to accommodate various preferences, whether you prefer to dine in or enjoy their delicious offerings at home.
- Dine-In Experience: Enjoy the "great atmosphere" that guests consistently praise. The restaurant strives to create a charming ambiance with "dark wood and elegant decor," making it "the perfect setting for special occasions or casual nights out."
- Online Reservations: For your convenience and to ensure a table, Elephant Sushi offers the ability to "Book a table online easily in just a couple of minutes." Reservations are encouraged, especially given its popularity.
- Takeout Options: Elephant Sushi provides efficient takeout services, allowing you to enjoy their flavorful sushi and other dishes in the comfort of your own home.
- Delivery Services: Partnering with major food delivery platforms such as DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub, Elephant Sushi makes it incredibly easy to have your favorite items delivered directly to your doorstep.
- Diverse Menu Categories: Their menu is thoughtfully organized into various sections, including Starters, House Specialties, Rolls, Sashimi, Nigiri, Bowls, and Sides, making it easy to navigate and find your preferred dishes.
- Full Bar / Drink Menu: Customers mention that "drinks are delicious," indicating a well-curated beverage selection that likely includes sake, beer, wine, and potentially craft cocktails to complement the sushi.
- Dessert Offerings: Unlike some sushi spots, Elephant Sushi emphasizes its dessert menu, with customers advising to "save room for dessert, they’re all amazing." This indicates a commitment to a complete and satisfying dining experience from start to finish.
Elephant Sushi has earned its reputation as "by far one of the best sushi restaurants in SF" through a combination of exceptional food quality, innovative culinary creations, and an inviting atmosphere. Here are some of its most notable features and highlights:
- Incredibly Flavorful and Delicious Food: The consistent theme across reviews is the outstanding taste of the food. Despite initial skepticism about "authenticity," diners universally find the sushi "so flavorful and delicious," praising the "amazing taste." This focus on flavor over strict traditionalism seems to be a winning formula.
- The Must-Try "Flaming Seabass Roll": This specific roll is repeatedly singled out as a signature dish and a "must." Its popularity suggests a unique preparation, theatrical presentation, or an incredibly memorable flavor profile that makes it a standout item. Other highly-liked rolls include "YA MAN ROLL" (Alaskan salmon, avocado, scallion, fried red onion chips, olive oil, and ponzu sauce), "RED DRAGON" (shrimp tempura roll topped with spicy tuna), and "WHITEOUT ROLL" (Hamachi and cucumber topped with seared butter fish, truffle oil, and ponzu).
- Creative and Innovative Rolls: Elephant Sushi is noted for its "inventive dishes" and "creative sushi and sashimi." This suggests a menu that goes beyond standard offerings, incorporating unique flavor combinations and presentations that surprise and delight patrons.
- High-Quality Fish: Despite the focus on innovation, the foundation remains strong, with a commitment to "fresh and flavorful fish from the U.S., Japan, Norway and New Zealand." Their sourcing ensures a premium sushi experience.
- Delicious Drinks and Thoughtful Beverage Program: Customers highlight that "drinks are delicious," indicating a quality beverage selection that perfectly complements the food, including a "decent selection of sake."
- Great Atmosphere for Various Occasions: The restaurant offers a "great atmosphere" that is described as "charming" and perfect for "special occasions or casual nights out." The "beautiful ambiance featuring dark wood and elegant decor" contributes to a sophisticated yet comfortable dining environment.
- Amazing Desserts: A unique highlight is the strong emphasis on their desserts. Unlike many sushi restaurants where desserts are an afterthought, Elephant Sushi's are "all amazing," making it worthwhile to "save room" for them. One specific mention is the "Hojicha Cheesecake."
- Consistent Amazing Experience: Multiple reviewers noted a "consistently amazing experience here," which speaks volumes about the restaurant's ability to maintain high standards of food, service, and ambiance over time.
- Exceptional Service: While not detailed in the provided reviews, their official "About" page emphasizes "exceptional service," "attentive service that enhances your dining experience," and "friendly staff ensures you're well taken care of throughout your visit."
As a highly-rated and popular sushi destination in San Francisco, Elephant Sushi likely focuses on providing consistent quality and value through its regular menu and unique dining experience rather than frequent, large-scale promotions. However, similar to many establishments of its caliber, they may have subtle or unadvertised offerings:
- Omakase Options: Elephant Sushi offers "OMAKASE SASHIMI (14 pieces) $60.00" and "OMAKASE MIX NIGIRI (Chef's choice 10pc) $78.00." While not a "promotion" in the traditional sense, these curated chef's selections offer a distinct dining experience and an opportunity to taste a variety of their freshest and finest offerings.
- Chef's Specials: Given their emphasis on "inventive dishes" and "fresh fish," Elephant Sushi likely features daily or weekly chef's specials that highlight seasonal ingredients or unique preparations not found on the regular menu.
- Beverage Pairings: While specific packages aren't detailed, the availability of a "decent selection of sake" and other "delicious drinks" suggests that the staff might offer recommendations for beverage pairings that enhance the meal, adding value through an elevated experience.
- Lunch vs. Dinner Pricing: Some sushi restaurants in San Francisco offer slightly different pricing or menu options for lunch versus dinner. It's advisable to check their specific operating hours and menus for any such distinctions, although current information primarily lists evening hours for the Grove St location.
To stay informed about any current special features, seasonal menu items, or unique offerings, the best approach is to visit Elephant Sushi's official website, check their online ordering platforms (DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub), or contact them directly by phone. This ensures you receive the most up-to-date information to enhance your dining experience.
To experience the highly-rated and flavorful sushi at Elephant Sushi, here’s how you can connect with them:
Address: 400 Grove St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA
Phone: (415) 400-4018
While a mobile phone number (+1 415-400-4018) is also provided, the primary landline is typically the most direct method for contacting the restaurant for reservations, inquiries about their menu, or takeout orders. You can also find additional information and online ordering options through their official website or popular food delivery applications.
For California residents, and particularly those in the culinary-savvy city of San Francisco, Elephant Sushi stands out as an exceptional and highly suitable dining destination. It perfectly aligns with what locals often seek in their favorite eateries: consistent quality, innovative culinary offerings, and a genuinely inviting atmosphere. The overwhelming positive sentiment from patrons underscores its strong connection with the community.
Elephant Sushi thrives on delivering "flavorful and delicious" food, proving that a creative approach to sushi can be just as, if not more, appealing than strict adherence to tradition for many diners. The "Flaming Seabass Roll" serves as a testament to their culinary ingenuity, becoming a local must-try. Beyond the stellar food, the "great atmosphere" and the emphasis on "delicious drinks" and "amazing" desserts ensure a complete and satisfying experience. Whether it's for a "date night," a casual dinner, or a special occasion, Elephant Sushi provides an experience that consistently leaves customers "highly recommend" it. Its prime location in Hayes Valley, coupled with the overall exceptional dining experience, makes Elephant Sushi a cherished local gem and a top choice for anyone in San Francisco craving a high-quality, memorable sushi meal.
Elephant Sushi Photos










Elephant Sushi Location
Elephant Sushi
400 Grove St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA
Elephant Sushi Reviews
I was skeptical at first as I wasn't sure if the sushi was authentic, but regardless of authenticity or not, the food was all so flavorful and delicious.It's not cheap but the dining experience was worth it.
Feb 16, 2025 · Macy YWe’ve consistently had an amazing experience here. The sushi tastes amazing, drinks are delicious, and the atmosphere is great. The Flaming Seabass Roll is a must. By far one of the best sushi restaurants in SF. Highly recommend! Also don’t forget to save room for dessert, they’re all amazing
Nov 30, 2024 · Cayla MurdochAbsolutely fresh and delicious food. As sashimi lovers we were not disappointed in the wide array of raw and delicate chpices. The desserts we tried - Japanese pudding and Yuzu Cream - were also light and fun. As was my cocktail - the Blackberry gin fizz.10/10 would go back.(Just don't try to eat the decorations on the dessert plates 🤣🤣)
Jun 17, 2024 · Jayanti AddlemanIt is the best sushi restaurant in SF. Fresh and original food will win your heart. Service is on the high level. Great list of cocktails.
Jul 29, 2024 · Alexander ChemerisReally good sushi and Asian food - we had to eat early and fast because we were headed to the symphony and they were excellent at giving us enough time so we didn't feel rushed but still with plenty of time to make the performance. Food was outstanding - so many different kinds of sushi, also had the black cod which was really good. Lots of good energy from the wait staff. So many more things we wanted to try - will definitely be heading back to check it out.
Mar 14, 2025 · Andrew Klein
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