Kui Shin Bo

For those of us living in the vibrant Bay Area, especially here in San Francisco, the search for authentic and diverse Japanese cuisine often leads us to explore hidden gems beyond the usual sushi spots. Kui Shin Bo, nestled within the cultural heart of Japantown, is precisely one such treasure. With a name that translates to "a person who loves to eat," Kui Shin Bo truly embodies its philosophy, offering an expansive menu that promises a delightful culinary journey for every palate.

This establishment has garnered a reputation among locals for its extensive selection of dishes, ranging from classic sushi and ramen to lesser-found specialties like okonomiyaki. While some reviews note that not every dish might be the "best Japanese food ever," the overall consensus points to a "yummy" and satisfying experience, delivered with fast service and a welcoming "hole in the wall" vibe. Whether you're craving a comforting bowl of noodles, a fresh sushi roll, or an authentic taste of Osaka, Kui Shin Bo provides a reliable and enjoyable option right here in our California community. It's the kind of place where you can walk in and immediately feel the energetic, no-nonsense atmosphere of a true Japanese eatery.

Kui Shin Bo is conveniently located at 22 Peace Plaza #2, 22 Peace Plz, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA. This address places it squarely within the historic and culturally rich Japantown, a unique and cherished neighborhood in San Francisco. For locals, finding Kui Shin Bo is quite easy, as Peace Plaza is a central hub within this vibrant district.

Japantown is well-connected by San Francisco's public transportation system. Numerous Muni bus lines serve the area, making it accessible from various parts of the city. While there isn't a BART station directly in Japantown, major BART lines connect to downtown San Francisco stations, from which a short bus or taxi ride can bring you to Peace Plaza. If you're driving, parking garages are available within Japantown, such as the Japan Center Garages, which offer convenient options, although parking fees apply. The location within Peace Plaza means you can combine your meal with a stroll through the unique shops and cultural attractions of Japantown, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely outing. The "hole in the wall" feel adds to its authentic charm, making it a favorite for those seeking a genuine experience.

Kui Shin Bo boasts an incredibly extensive menu, ensuring there’s something for everyone, from traditional Japanese fare to unique specialties. Here’s a detailed overview of their offerings:

• Sushi and Sashimi: They offer a broad selection of nigiri (such as tuna, salmon, yellowtail, unagi), sashimi plates (including tuna, salmon, yellowtail, mackerel), and a wide variety of sushi rolls. Popular rolls include classic California rolls (made with real crab), Spicy Tuna, Philadelphia, and specialty rolls like the Volcano Roll and Spicy Crunchy Roll.
• Okonomiyaki: A standout feature, particularly the "veggie okonomiyaki," which customers say tastes "as good as Osaka." They offer Kansai-style savory cabbage pancakes mixed with various ingredients and topped with traditional sauces and bonito flakes. Seafood and Chicken Okonomiyaki are also available.
• Ramen and Noodle Soups: Kui Shin Bo serves a range of ramen options, including Chashu Ramen (with roasted pork or grilled chicken), Miso Ramen, and Vegetable Ramen. They also offer Udon (thick wheat noodles) and Soba (thin buckwheat noodles) in various preparations, such as Tempura Noodle Soups.
• Donburi (Rice Bowls): A popular choice for a hearty meal, featuring various toppings served over hot rice. Options include Ten Don Buri (tempura over rice), Katsu Don (pork cutlet with egg), Unagi Don (BBQ eel), Oyako Don (chicken and egg), and various curry rice dishes like Crispy Shrimp Curry Rice and Karaage Curry Rice.
• Teriyaki and Grilled Dishes: A selection of grilled items includes Chicken, Salmon, Beef, and Pork Teriyaki, all served with miso soup, salad, and rice. Other grilled options feature Yakitori (chicken skewers), Beef Kushiyaki, and Squid Maruyaki.
• Fried Dishes (Agemono): A variety of crispy fried items such as Gyoza (vegetable and chicken dumplings), Kara-age (Japanese fried chicken), Chicken Katsu, Ton Katsu (pork cutlet), Takoyaki (octopus balls), and Deep Fried Soft Shell Crab.
• Appetizers and Sides: An extensive list of appetizers including Edamame (plain, spicy, garlic), Agedashi Tofu, Fried Tofu Steak, Kinpira Gobo (braised burdock root), and various salads.
• Sushi Burritos: An innovative offering combining sushi ingredients in a burrito format, providing a modern twist on Japanese cuisine.
• Beverages: A selection of soft drinks, Japanese teas, and alcoholic beverages, including beer (Sapporo, Asahi) and sake (hot, cold, and bottled options).

Kui Shin Bo offers several compelling features that make it a favorite among those seeking authentic and diverse Japanese flavors in San Francisco:

• Extensive and Diverse Menu: The sheer breadth of the menu is a major highlight. Diners can find almost any classic Japanese dish they desire, from various sushi and sashimi to ramen, donburi, okonomiyaki, and grilled items, catering to all tastes and cravings.
• Authentic Okonomiyaki: The okonomiyaki, particularly the veggie version, receives high praise for its authenticity, with one reviewer stating it tasted "as good as Osaka," suggesting a true taste of Japan.
• "Hole in the Wall" Vibe: The restaurant offers a casual and unpretentious "hole in the wall" atmosphere. This contributes to a relaxed dining experience that many locals appreciate, feeling more like a neighborhood gem than a formal establishment.
• Fast Service: Customers frequently mention the "fast service," making it a convenient option for those looking for a quick and efficient meal without compromising on flavor.
• Good for Walk-Ins: Its reputation as being "good for walk-ins" adds to its accessibility and spontaneity, making it easy for locals to drop in without needing a reservation.
• Vegan and Vegetarian Options: Kui Shin Bo offers several plant-based options, including vegetable okonomiyaki, vegetable gyoza, various tofu dishes, and two vegetarian ramen options (Vegetable Ramen and Mushroom Creamy Ramen). While some modifications might be needed for strict vegans, the variety is appreciated.
• Multiple Locations: Kui Shin Bo operates both in Japantown (22 Peace Plaza) and on Lombard Street, providing more options for San Francisco residents to enjoy their cuisine.

While specific, regularly advertised "promotions" like fixed-percentage discounts might not be widely publicized for Kui Shin Bo, their menu structure itself offers inherent value and several ways for locals to enjoy their extensive offerings at reasonable prices:

• Extensive Lunch Options: Given their vast menu of ramen, donburi, and various set meals, it's highly likely they offer attractive lunch specials, which typically provide a more affordable way to sample their dishes during midday hours. (While specific "lunch specials" aren't detailed in the provided reviews, the existence of so many individual meal categories strongly suggests this.)
• Reasonable Pricing: Many of their dishes are individually priced, and based on the menu listings, appear to be competitively priced for the quality and portion sizes offered in San Francisco's dining scene, making it a good value. For example, many ramen bowls are in the $15-$18 range, and Donburi are around $16-$25.
• Combo Platters: For sushi lovers, they offer assorted sushi and sashimi combos and platters that can provide good value for groups or individuals looking to sample a variety of items. Examples include Assorted Sushi (6 nigiri, 8 maki for $29.99) and Sushi & Sashimi Combo ($35.99).
• Catering Menu: For larger gatherings or events, Kui Shin Bo offers a full catering menu with platters such as Sushi Burrito Platters, Gyoza Platters, and Sashimi and Nigiri Platters, which can be a cost-effective way to feed a group.

To confirm any current specials or the best way to enjoy their value, it's always recommended for local patrons to check their official website or inquire directly with the restaurant when visiting or placing an order.

To experience the extensive Japanese menu at Kui Shin Bo, here's their contact information:

Address: 22 Peace Plaza #2, 22 Peace Plz, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA

Phone: (415) 922-9575

They are open most days from 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM (or 9 PM on some days for the Lombard location, but for Peace Plaza, it's generally until 8:30 PM). It's always a good idea to call ahead for current hours or if you have specific questions, especially concerning their various menu items or any dietary needs. You can also find them on popular food delivery platforms for convenient takeout or delivery.

For residents of California, particularly those in and around San Francisco, Kui Shin Bo offers a highly suitable and enjoyable Japanese dining experience. Its location in the heart of Japantown provides a cultural backdrop that enriches the meal, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic immersion in Japanese culture and cuisine. The ease of access via public transportation makes it a convenient choice for spontaneous visits or planned outings.

One of Kui Shin Bo's most compelling attributes for locals is its incredibly extensive menu. Whether you're in the mood for classic sushi, a comforting bowl of ramen, or a unique specialty like okonomiyaki (praised for tasting "as good as Osaka"), the sheer variety ensures there’s always something new to try, catering to every craving. This breadth of offerings, coupled with its "hole in the wall vibe" and fast service, makes it a reliable and approachable spot for any day of the week.

While a review noted that some dishes might not be the absolute "best Japanese food I’ve ever had," the overall sentiment of "yummy, no complaints" and a desire to "be back" speaks volumes. This indicates that Kui Shin Bo consistently delivers a satisfying and pleasant dining experience that resonates with local expectations for quality, value, and authenticity in a casual setting. For a diverse, flavorful, and genuinely Japanese meal right here in San Francisco, Kui Shin Bo is a fantastic choice for any local food lover.

Kui Shin Bo

22 Peace Plaza #2, 22 Peace Plz, San Francisco, CA 94115, USA