NARA

For those of us living in the diverse and dynamic culinary landscape of California, particularly here in San Francisco, the search for a truly outstanding Japanese dining experience is a journey we often embark on. We appreciate places that not only serve delicious food but also offer a welcoming atmosphere and memorable service. NARA, nestled in the vibrant Lower Haight neighborhood, has emerged as a truly great find, consistently delivering on all fronts.

NARA has quickly become a beloved spot for its incredibly fresh fish and extensive menu that goes beyond typical sushi offerings. It's a place where you can explore diverse options, from classic nigiri and sashimi to inventive specialty rolls and unique "Japanese Fusion cuisine dishes." What truly sets NARA apart, according to local patrons, is the exceptional kindness and graciousness of the staff, who make every visit feel special, even when the restaurant is bustling. Whether you're a seasoned sushi connoisseur looking for a fantastic omakase or simply seeking a great place to enjoy a meal with friends, NARA provides a beautiful and wonderful dining experience that makes it a true San Francisco staple.

NARA is conveniently located at 518 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA. This address places it squarely in the Lower Haight, a lively and eclectic neighborhood known for its unique boutiques, vibrant nightlife, and a diverse array of eateries. For locals, accessing NARA is quite straightforward, making it an easy choice for a delicious Japanese meal.

The Lower Haight is well-connected by San Francisco's MUNI public transportation system. Several bus lines, including the 6, 7, and 71, have stops within a short walking distance of the restaurant, providing easy access from various parts of the city. While there isn't a BART station directly in the Lower Haight, major BART hubs in downtown San Francisco are a quick bus or taxi ride away, connecting NARA to the broader Bay Area. For those who prefer to drive, street parking can be found in the neighborhood, though it may require some patience during peak dining hours. However, the energetic and walkable nature of the Lower Haight itself makes it a pleasant area to explore before or after your meal at NARA. Its central location makes it a great spot for both planned dinners and spontaneous outings for us San Franciscans.

NARA offers a comprehensive and diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes within Japanese cuisine, extending beyond traditional sushi to include innovative fusion dishes and a robust sake bar. Here's a detailed look at their services and culinary offerings:

• Extensive Sushi & Sashimi Selection: NARA boasts an impressive array of nigiri and sashimi, featuring incredibly fresh fish. Options include premium selections like O-Toro (fatty tuna), Chu-Toro (medium fatty tuna), Hamachi (yellowtail), Sake (salmon), Uni (sea urchin), and many more, with a clear emphasis on quality.
• Omakase (Chef's Tasting Menu): For those seeking a curated culinary journey, NARA offers an Omakase experience. This allows the chef to showcase the freshest and most special fish available, prepared in various ways. The "8pc Nigiri Omakase" (around $69.00) and "14 pc Sashimi Omakase" (around $88.00) are popular choices, providing a diverse selection of high-quality fish.
• Specialty and Basic Sushi Rolls: The menu includes a wide variety of both classic and creative rolls. Specialty rolls like "The Special K" (yellowtail, avocado, seared butterfish, pickled jalapeños, truffle ponzu) and "Blazing Glory" (spicy tuna, spicy salmon, shrimp tempura, asparagus, seared tuna, salmon, yellowtail, special tare sauce, served flaming) are frequently highlighted. Basic rolls such as Spicy Tuna, California Roll, and Salmon Avocado are also available.
• Cold Appetizers: A range of exquisitely prepared cold dishes, including "Maguro Tartare" (bluefin tuna, Korean sweet crunch pear, avocado), "Hamachi Truffle" (seared yellowtail with jalapeño, cilantro, sriracha, potato crunch in truffle ponzu), and "Shrek" (spicy tuna, shrimp tempura, snow crab stuffed in avocado with cilantro aioli & garlic ponzu).
• Hot Appetizers & Izakaya-Style Eats: Beyond raw fish, NARA offers a selection of hot appetizers and small plates perfect for sharing. These include classic items like Edamame, Agedashi Tofu, Assorted Mushroom Tempura, and Chicken Karaage, as well as more unique options like Mr. Tako Balls (panko deep-fried octopus balls), Hamachi Kama (grilled yellowtail collar), and various grilled skewers (Yakitori).
• Sake and Drink Selection: As a "Sake Bar," NARA prides itself on an "impressive selection of sake," with knowledgeable staff to help with pairings. They also offer a variety of Japanese beers, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Takeout & Delivery: NARA provides convenient online ordering for pickup and is also available on popular delivery platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Seamless.
• Group Dining & Special Events: With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu, NARA is a "great place to be with friends" and can accommodate groups, suggesting suitability for casual gatherings or even special celebrations.

NARA stands out in San Francisco's competitive Japanese dining scene due to several key features that contribute to its glowing reputation:

• Incredibly Fresh Fish: This is a consistent highlight from customer reviews, emphasizing that the "fish was fresh" and the "sashimi was incredible," indicating a strong commitment to high-quality ingredients.
• Exceptional Omakase Experience: The omakase is highly recommended, praised for its quality and the diverse preparation of fresh fish. The "special (fly fish) prepared in 4 ways" highlights the chef's creativity and skill.
• Outstanding Staff and Service: Repeatedly mentioned is the "incredibly kind" and "gracious" staff who "treated us so special despite it being busy." This level of hospitality significantly enhances the dining experience, making patrons feel truly valued.
• Diverse and Inventive Menu: NARA offers "tons of great options," including a wide variety of sushi, sashimi, and unique rolls, along with a strong selection of hot and cold appetizers. This "Japanese Fusion cuisine" caters to various tastes and culinary explorations.
• Impressive Sake Selection: As a "Sake Bar," NARA is noted for its "impressive selection of sake," suggesting it's a great spot for those looking to pair their meal with quality Japanese rice wine.
• Vibrant Lower Haight Location: Situated in a trendy and lively neighborhood, NARA benefits from its surroundings, making it a desirable destination for both locals and visitors exploring the unique San Francisco vibe.
• Comfortable and Welcoming Ambiance: While not explicitly described, the kind staff and the designation as a "great place to be with friends" suggest a comfortable and inviting atmosphere suitable for various social occasions.

NARA, being a popular Japanese restaurant and sake bar in a bustling San Francisco neighborhood, often provides various ways for diners to enjoy their offerings, including specific promotions. Based on available information, here are some of the promotions and special offers you might find:

• Happy Hour Specials: NARA has been known to offer "happy hour specials on handrolls and sake," particularly on Fridays and extending into late-night weekend hours. This can be a fantastic way for locals to enjoy some of their popular items at a more accessible price point. Specific examples mentioned include $4.50 tuna tacos and $12 fried calamari during happy hour. They also promote a "new late night happy hour" on their social media.
• Omakase Offerings: While not a discount, their omakase sets (e.g., 8-piece Nigiri Omakase for around $69.00, 14-piece Sashimi Omakase for around $88.00) are designed as curated experiences that often provide a comprehensive tasting at a set value, which can be more cost-effective than ordering individual premium pieces. They also have "Belly flights" and "Bluefin tuna flights" as special tasting options.
• Daily Specials / Chef's Creations: As highlighted by a customer enjoying a "special (fly fish) prepared in 4 ways," NARA regularly features unique daily or seasonal specials that showcase the freshest catches and the chef's creativity. These "current specials" are often promoted on their social media.
• Online Ordering & Delivery Promotions: While not always active, restaurants on platforms like DoorDash and Uber Eats occasionally offer first-time user discounts or promotional codes. NARA actively uses these platforms for pickup and delivery.
• Sake Flight Specials: NARA actively promotes "Sake Journey with our New Drink Special: Sake Flight!" suggesting special pricing or curated tastings for their impressive sake selection.

It's always a good idea for locals to check NARA's official website, social media channels (@naraonhaight on Instagram), or contact them directly for the most current information on promotions, happy hour times, and any seasonal specials before visiting.

Ready to experience the exceptional sushi, sake, and hospitality at NARA? Here's how to connect with them:

Address: 518 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA

Phone: (415) 417-0518

NARA is typically open daily from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, with late-night weekend hours extending until 12:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. Given its popularity and the positive reviews, especially during peak dining times, making a reservation is highly recommended to ensure you secure a table. You can also place online orders for pickup directly through their website or find them on various delivery platforms like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Seamless for the convenience of enjoying NARA's delicious offerings at home.

For us Californians, and particularly those of us in San Francisco, NARA stands out as an exceptional Japanese dining destination that perfectly suits our diverse tastes and desire for quality and experience. Its location in the lively Lower Haight makes it easily accessible via public transportation and a natural fit for integrating into a night out in one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods.

What truly cements NARA's suitability for locals is its unwavering commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients – the "fish was fresh" and "sashimi was incredible" comments speak volumes. Whether you're craving classic sushi, exploring adventurous specialty rolls, or indulging in a chef-curated omakase, NARA delivers. The availability of "new fish prepared in 4 ways" highlights their innovative spirit, keeping the menu exciting and offering something beyond the ordinary.

Beyond the food, the "incredibly kind" and "gracious" staff are a major draw. In a busy city, receiving such special and attentive treatment, even when the restaurant is packed, creates a truly welcoming atmosphere that fosters loyalty. This, combined with their impressive sake selection and "great place to be with friends" vibe, makes NARA a go-to spot for everything from casual weeknight dinners to celebratory gatherings. For us San Franciscans, NARA isn't just a restaurant; it's a reliable and delightful culinary experience that feels like a true local gem.

NARA

518 Haight St, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA