The Public Izakaya: Your Authentic Slice of Japan in San Francisco

The Public Izakaya Introduce

For those in California craving an authentic taste of Japan without the trans-Pacific flight, The Public Izakaya in San Francisco offers an experience that transports you directly to the bustling backstreets of Tokyo. More than just a restaurant, it's a vibrant social hub where delicious food, lively ambiance, and a fantastic selection of drinks come together. Locals rave about its genuine izakaya atmosphere and a menu that delights with both classic and unique Japanese flavors. If you're looking for a spot that feels like a true Japanese escape, especially for late-night bites and shared plates, The Public Izakaya is a must-visit in the Golden City.

Location and Accessibility

The Public Izakaya is conveniently located at 700 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA. This address places it squarely in the vibrant Nob Hill neighborhood, making it easily accessible from various parts of San Francisco. Its proximity to Union Square and major hotels means it's a convenient dining destination for both residents and visitors exploring the city's downtown core. Public transportation is readily available, with numerous MUNI bus lines and cable car routes operating in the vicinity, allowing for a comfortable journey. While street parking in San Francisco can be challenging, particularly in popular areas like Nob Hill, rideshare services are always an easy alternative. The restaurant's inviting storefront and authentic Japanese decor immediately set the tone for the unique experience that awaits inside.

Services Offered

The Public Izakaya offers a comprehensive menu reflecting the diverse and communal nature of a traditional Japanese izakaya. It’s designed for sharing and enjoying a wide variety of flavors.

Extensive Izakaya Dishes: As an izakaya, the menu features a wide array of small plates and skewers perfect for sharing. Highlights include their "freshly fried" fried chicken (karaage), flavorful shishito peppers, and robust motsunabe (hotpot), which comes with its own hotpot setup at the table for a truly interactive dining experience.
Fresh Sushi and Sashimi: Despite its izakaya focus, The Public Izakaya also offers a selection of fresh sushi and sashimi, including delicious hamachi. Options range from nigiri (like yellowfin tuna, salmon, hamachi, unagi, and various roes) to more adventurous selections like their "Flaming Footlong Salmon." They even offer a "California Nigiri Sampler" for those who want a taste of everything.
Flavorful Ramen and Noodles: For noodle lovers, the menu includes various ramen and udon dishes. Popular choices include Millionaire Tonkotsu ramen with creamy pork bone broth, Tempura Udon, and a spicy miso ramen. There are also unique offerings like "Tomato Bomb" vegetarian ramen and "Fiery Wagyu" ramen.
Grilled Robatayaki Skewers: A cornerstone of izakaya dining, The Public Izakaya features a robust robatayaki menu with various skewers, including chicken (thigh, heart, gizzard, nankotsu, tail, tsukune ball), beef (A-5 Wagyu), pork (pork belly), and seafood (salmon, jumbo scallop, lobster tail, abalone, calamari, garlic shrimp).
Full Bar with Japanese Beverages: The bar offers a good selection of Japanese wines and beers, including the popular Kyoto Yuzu beer, alongside a variety of other drinks. This makes it an ideal spot for enjoying drinks with friends while sampling different dishes.
Delicious Desserts: Don't skip dessert! Customers have praised their unique offerings, such as a "sesame dessert" that was described as "so cool" and "really loved."
Late-Night Dining: A significant advantage for locals, The Public Izakaya is known as a solid late-night food spot, offering a full menu until late hours (often until 1 AM or later), making it perfect for post-event cravings or evening gatherings.
Dine-In Service: The restaurant offers a vibrant and energetic dine-in experience, characterized by fast and attentive service, even during busy periods.
Takeout and Delivery: For convenience, The Public Izakaya also offers takeout and delivery services through popular platforms, allowing diners to enjoy their favorite Japanese dishes at home.

Features / Highlights

The Public Izakaya's charm and popularity stem from several distinctive features that create a truly memorable experience:

Authentic Japanese Ambiance and Decor: Stepping inside truly feels like being transported to Japan. Reviewers consistently praise the "cute" and "fitting" decor, complete with "Japanese figurines" and posters, creating an immersive and authentic izakaya atmosphere.
Lively and Energetic Atmosphere: The restaurant maintains a bustling and dynamic vibe, making it "good for groups to share some drinks and bites." It's often described as a fun and engaging place to dine, especially for those seeking a lively evening.
Fast and Attentive Service: Despite the lively atmosphere, the service is frequently noted for being "very fast and attentive." Dishes arrive quickly, particularly freshly fried items, ensuring a smooth dining experience.
Diverse and Shareable Menu: The izakaya concept thrives on variety, and The Public Izakaya delivers with a wide range of small plates, skewers, sushi, ramen, and hot pots. This encourages sharing and allows diners to sample many different flavors.
Quality Fried Dishes: The fried chicken is a standout, noted for being "freshly fried" and delicious. Other fried items like crispy calamari and fried oysters are also available.
Unique Beverage Selection: Beyond standard offerings, the selection of Japanese wines and specific beers like the Kyoto Yuzu beer adds a distinct touch to the drink menu, complementing the food perfectly.
Late-Night Availability: As one of San Francisco's go-to spots for late-night food, it fills a crucial niche for locals looking for quality dining options well into the evening.

Promotions or Special Offers

The Public Izakaya offers appealing promotions that enhance the dining experience, particularly during specific hours:

Happy Hour Specials: The Public Izakaya is well-known for its fantastic happy hour, available from 5-6 PM and again from 10-11 PM. During these times, guests can enjoy deals on both food and drinks. This includes discounted grilled chicken and veggie skewers (often as low as $5), and specials on select nigiri and sashimi. Additionally, there are often deals on sake and beer, making it an excellent option for an affordable yet high-quality experience.
Online Deals: The restaurant may also participate in online platforms like Restaurant.com or DoorDash, where customers might find exclusive deals, gift certificates, or delivery promotions. It's always a good idea to check these platforms for potential savings.

For the most current information on any ongoing promotions, daily specials, or exact happy hour timings, it is always recommended to contact The Public Izakaya directly via phone or check their official website or social media channels.

Contact Information

Ready to immerse yourself in an authentic Japanese izakaya experience? Here’s how you can reach The Public Izakaya:

Address: 700 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA

Phone: (415) 714-0733

Due to its popularity, especially during peak dining hours and late at night, calling ahead for seating availability or making a reservation is advisable to ensure a smooth visit.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For California locals, particularly those in the San Francisco Bay Area, The Public Izakaya is more than just another Japanese restaurant; it's a vibrant cultural and culinary destination perfectly suited to the local lifestyle. Its ability to transport diners directly to Japan through its authentic decor and lively atmosphere provides a unique escape within the city, making it a refreshing change of pace for a night out with friends or a casual group gathering. The extensive menu, featuring a wide array of delicious izakaya small plates, fresh sushi, comforting ramen, and expertly grilled skewers, caters to diverse tastes and encourages a communal dining experience—a hallmark of Californian social culture.

Moreover, its strong reputation as a solid late-night food spot fills a crucial niche in San Francisco's dining scene, offering quality food and drinks well into the evening when many other establishments have closed. The value offered through their generous happy hour deals on both food and drinks makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious diners seeking high quality. Despite minor service inconsistencies reported by some, the overall consensus points to an attentive and fast service, ensuring a pleasant visit. For an authentic, energetic, and delicious Japanese experience that truly feels like a local secret worth sharing, The Public Izakaya is a must-visit San Francisco gem.

The Public Izakaya Menu

All Day - Drink Menu - Soft Drinks
Fresh Young Coconut US$8.00
Fresh coconut juice from the whole coconut.
Coke US$3.00
The cold, refreshing, sparkling classic that America loves.
Diet Coke US$3.00
A crisp, refreshing taste you know and love with zero calories.
Sprite US$3.00
The cold, refreshing flavors of lemon and lime, perfectly blended.
Sparkling Water US$3.00
Effervescent, refreshing water with a lively burst of bubbles.
Mexican Coke US$5.00
The same great taste made with only pure cane sugar and served in a bottle.
Yuzu Peach Sparker US$7.00
Made with carbonated water, organic cane sugar, yuzu juice, and white peach juice concentrate.
House Cold Brew Thai Ice Tea US$5.00

All Day - Drink Menu - Hot Tea
Matcha US$3.50
Glass. Green tea.
Genmaicha US$3.50
Glass. Roasted rice.

All Day - Veggies & Greens
Yuzu Crab Salad US$15.00
Fresh snow crab leg meat, spring mix salad, yuzu zest, cucumber, avocado, tomato, citrus dressing, and seaweed salad.
Edamame US$7.00
Vegetarian. Soybean edamame in the pod with simple sea salt or garlic soy butter sautéed.
Agedashi Tofu US$9.00
Vegetarian. House-fried cubed soft tofu in soy dashi broth, scallion, sesame, and bonito flakes.
Green Gyoza US$8.00
Vegetarian. Pan-fried house veggie potstickers with tofu filling, spinach wrap, and ponzu dip.
Salt & Pepper Broccoli US$9.00
Vegetarian. Crispy fried broccoli, jalapeño, scallion, sesame sauce drizzle, and fried onion.
Blistered Shishito US$9.00
Vegetarian. Flash-fried Japanese mild pepper, ginger soy, lemon, and optional bonito flakes.
Purple Potato Fries US$8.00
Vegetarian. Tempura fried Hawaiian purple sweet potato served with house aioli dip.
Yasai Tempura US$12.00
Vegetarian. Tempura fried fresh seasonal veggies and mushrooms, and soy dashi dip.
Garlic Butter Mushroom US$10.00
Vegetarian. Pan-fried trumpet, white, and shiitake mushroom, house butter soy, crushed garlic, and nori flake.
Wok You String Bean US$9.00
Vegetarian. Flash-fried string bean, jalapeño, and scallion sautéed with house "Wok You" sauce.

All Day - Meat & Seafood
Karaage & Gyoza US$10.00
House signature fried chicken dark meat marinated in special ten spices and house curry aioli dip.
Tori Kawa US$10.00
House signature fried chicken skin with special seasoning, a must try to pair with drinks!
Unagi Tamagoyaki US$10.00
House-made Japanese savory dashi omelet rolled with BBQ eel inside, very classic and tasty.
The Best Fried Calamari US$12.00
Voted the best! Crispy fried fresh Japanese calamari, tartar dip, and sweet chili.
Takoyaki US$10.00
Fried gluten ball with octopus and cabbage filling, nori flake, mayo, katsu sauce, and bonito.
Salt & Pepper Nankotsu US$10.00
Fried chicken soft bone carter-legs with salt and pepper, a must try to pair with drinks!
Dynamite Shrimp US$9.00
3 pieces. Tempura shrimp coated with house spicy aioli, scallion, and tobiko.
Fried Oyster US$12.00
Fresh oyster fried with special rice bread panko, house tartar, katsu sauce, and lemon.

All Day - Raw
Happy Spoon US$18.00
2 orders. Fresh sea urchin and salmon caviar with Hokkaido scallop, served with truffle ponzu in a spoon. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Oyster Half Shell US$15.00
Six pieces of seasonal fresh raw oysters in half shell, yuzu ponzu, and tobiko. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Big Mouth US$36.00
2 orders. Salmon nigiri topped with Hokkaido scallop, snow crab leg, and uni, caviar. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Takowasa US$7.00
Japanese baby octopus pieces marinated in light soy sauce and chopped fresh wasabi roots with tobiko. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Saba Tataki US$12.00
Whole filet of house-cured mackerel, thin slices flame-torched with ginger ponzu, bonito flakes, and scallion. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Authentic Amaebi US$18.00
Baby sweet shrimp from Hokkaido, about 18 pieces served with fresh wasabi, ponzu, and tobiko. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Flaming Footlong Salmon US$18.00
Footlong cuts of fatty salmon belly torched with spicy mayo, jalapeño, and tobiko. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Toro Flight US$20.00
One piece each of fatty salmon belly, hamachi belly, and bluefin tuna belly nigiri with caviar. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Truffle Hamachi Carpaccio US$18.00
Thinly sliced yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño, avocado, ponzu, truffle sauce, and tobiko. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Sashimi Sampler US$28.00
Twelve pieces of chef's selection, six varieties. Add uni and toro for an additional price. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Nigiri Sampler US$28.00
Bluefin tuna, salmon, hamachi, walu, tamago, unagi, and saba. Add uni and toro for an additional price. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.

All Day - Simple Rolls
Negitoro Roll US$12.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
California Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Spicy Tuna Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Shrimp Tempura Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Spicy Scallop Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Spicy Salmon Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Philadelphia Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Chicken Teriyaki Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Salmon Avocado Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Eel Avocado Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Soft-Shell Crab Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Salmon Skin Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Spicy Hamachi Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Negi Hamachi Roll US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.

All Day - Nigiri & Sashimi (2 Pieces) - Fish
Salmon US$6.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Salmon Belly US$12.00
Seared. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Bluefin Tuna US$8.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
O-Toro Belly US$15.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Hamachi US$7.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Hamachi Toro US$12.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Saba US$9.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Walu (Butterfish / Escolar) US$7.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Unagi / BBQ Eel US$7.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.

All Day - Nigiri & Sashimi (2 Pieces) - Shellfish
XXXL Amaebi US$16.00
With fried heads. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Baby Amaebi US$10.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Ao-Ebi / Blue Prawn US$15.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Hotate / Hokkaido Scallop US$7.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Kani / Snow Crab Leg US$10.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.

All Day - Nigiri & Sashimi (2 Pieces) - Roe & Others
Tobiko / Flying Fish Roe US$6.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Ikura / Salmon Caviar US$8.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Uni (Santa Barbara) US$18.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Uni (Hokkaido) US$25.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Tamago US$5.00
Sweet and savory egg omelet. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
A-5 Wagyu (Miyazaki) US$16.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.

All Day - Sashimi Don
Sakae Toro Oyako Don US$25.00
Seared salmon belly and ikura caviar over seasoned sushi rice with garnish. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Tekka Don US$25.00
Fresh bluefin tuna akami over seasoned sushi rice with garnish. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Classic Chirashi US$25.00
Chef's choice of fish over seasoned sushi rice with garnish and tamago. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Uni Ikura Don US$35.00
Fresh uni, shiso, and house-cured salmon caviar, over sushi rice. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.

All Day - Fancy Rolls
Flaming Toro US$20.00
Spicy tuna roll topped with flame-seared fatty bluefin tuna, pickled wasabi, house pickled jalapeño, fried onion, and tobiko. Add uni for an additional price. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Fancy Downtown US$25.00
Negi toro and avocado roll topped with loads of uni, ikura, and shiso. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Rainbow Rainbow US$20.00
California roll topped with assorted sashimi, avocado, and orange tobiko. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Uni Buttercup US$25.00
Spicy tuna and avocado roll topped with butterfish uni and black tobiko. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Big Bang US$15.00
Tuna, salmon, and hamachi with avocado and tobiko, cut into five pieces. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Super Dynamite (Cooked) US$12.00
Fried spicy tuna and cream cheese roll with unagi sauce, spicy mayo, scallion, and tobiko.
Lion King Remix (Cooked) US$15.00
Baked roll with krab mix and avocado, topped with spicy sauce, light cheese, and tobiko.
Firecracker (Cooked) US$9.00
Flash-fried spicy tuna roll topped with sweet chili sauce, mango, and tobiko.
Jalapeño Snow Crab (Cooked) US$20.00
Shrimp tempura and avocado roll topped with torched fresh snow crab, jalapeño, and tobiko.
Rocking Crab (Cooked) US$12.00
Fresh snow crab California roll with unagi eel, avocado, and tobiko, futomaki-style.
Caterpillar (Cooked) US$12.00
BBQ eel and avocado roll topped with fancy sliced avocado, unagi sauce glaze, and tobiko.
Dragon (Cooked) US$18.00
Shrimp tempura and avocado roll topped with BBQ fresh water eel, unagi sauce, and sesame seeds.
Crunchy Lobster (Cooked) US$22.00
Baby lobster salad and avocado roll topped with tempura lobster tail and crunchy onion tempura flakes, tobiko, and spicy mayo drizzle.
Philly Cheese Unagi US$18.00
Smoked salmon, avocado, and cream cheese, topped with unagi, unagi sauce, and sesame. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
King 49Er US$18.00
Krab mix and avocado roll topped with Ōra King salmon, lemon sliver, and black tobiko. Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.

All Day - Ramen & Noodles
Fiery Wagyu US$25.00
Wok-tossed American wagyu beef in Mongolian beef-style ramen served with house garlic chili shoyu broth, potato chips, and soft boiled egg.
Millionaire Tonkotsu US$16.00
House signature creamy pork bone broth topped with pork belly chashu, marinated soft egg, scallion, sesame, and seaweed.
Spicy Miso US$14.00
Grilled chicken with house garlic chili chicken miso ginger broth, scallion, and soft egg.
Tom Yum Seafood US$25.00
Green mussel, fried soft-shell crab, garlic shrimp whole lobster tail, calamari in mild coconut tom yum broth, soft egg, and lime. Vegetarian option available.
Garlic Noodle US$16.00
Sautéed ramen noodle with house garlic butter, basil, umami soy, scallion, and fried onion. Choice of chicken, shrimp, or rainbow veggies (vegetarian option).
Tomato Bomb US$15.00
Vegetarian. Vegetarian ramen with house rich tomato broth, butter-sautéed fresh diced tomato, grilled broccoli, and sweet corn.
Tempura Udon US$16.00
Shrimp and seasonal veggie tempura served with udon noodle soup, scallion, seaweed, and side tempura crunch.

All Day - Rice & Entrées
Super Kimchi Remix US$22.00
Korean-style kimchi fried rice with grilled American Wagyu beef bulgogi, topped with tornado runny egg and seaweed flake.
Taishan Unagi Don US$25.00
Grilled freshwater eel, served in clay pot with crispy chicken fried rice bottom, sous vide egg, ikura, scallion, and seasoned nori flake.
Curry Gyu-Tan US$16.00
Tender braised beef tongue with house special curry stew and mild garlic chili, served with rice.
Classic Japanese Entrée US$18.00
Chicken teriyaki, beef teriyaki, tonkatsu, salmon teriyaki, saba shio yaki, or short ribs.
Izakaya Bento Box US$25.00
Choose two items from the above classic Japanese entrée, served with miso soup, salad, and rice.

All Day - Korean-Style Fried Chicken
Thigh (4 Pieces) US$15.00
Korean-style fried chicken thigh, 4 pieces. Choose from classic red, maple honey mustard, honey garlic soy, flaming hot, or dynamite sauce.
Mixed Wings (6 Pieces) US$15.00
Korean fried chicken wings, six pieces. Choice of sauce: classic red, maple honey mustard, honey garlic soy, flaming hot, or dynamite (spicy mayo & unagi).
White Meat Tender (6 Pieces) US$15.00

All Day - Robatayaki - Chicken
Wings US$6.00
Grilled chicken wings typically served with a savory soy glaze.
Thigh US$6.00
Gizzard US$6.00
Nankotsu US$8.00
Skin US$8.00
Grilled chicken skin skewer, typically basted in a savory sauce.
Tsukune US$8.00

All Day - Robatayaki - Beef
American Wagyu US$10.00
Japanese Beef Tongue US$18.00
A-5 Miyazaki Wagyu With Pineapple US$12.00
Each.

All Day - Robatayaki - Pork
Pork Belly US$7.00
Braised pork belly glazed with teriyaki sauce, grilled on skewers.
Chashu Pork Belly US$9.00
Smoked Sausage US$7.00
Grilled pork sausage, typically seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, smoked over a charcoal grill.

All Day - Robatayaki - Seafood
Calamari US$9.00
Salmon US$8.00
Consuming raw or undercooked meats, poultry, seafood, shellfish, or eggs may increase your risk of foodborne illness, especially if you have certain medical conditions.
Garlic Shrimp US$8.00
Hokkaido Jumbo Scallop US$18.00
Grilled Hokkaido jumbo scallops, typically skewered and slow-cooked over a robata grill.
Lobster Tail US$15.00
Abalone US$20.00
Grilled abalone, typically seasoned with a light garlic sauce, showcasing the delicate flavors of this premium seafood.

All Day - Robatayaki - Menu
Lamb Rack US$9.00
Char-grilled lamb rack typically marinated with traditional Japanese spices and served with a house-made barbecue sauce.

All Day - Robatayaki - Veggies & Fruit
Baby Tomato US$6.00
Shishito Pepper US$6.00
Flash-fried shishito peppers seasoned with soy sauce.
Shiitake Mushroom US$7.00
Grilled shiitake mushrooms skewer typically basted in a savory sauce.
Broccoli US$6.00
Fresh, crisp broccoli florets, lightly steamed to preserve flavor and nutrition.
King Trumpet Mushroom US$7.00
Grilled king trumpet mushrooms, typically seasoned with a savory soy-based sauce.
Fresh Pineapple US$6.00
Grilled pineapple slices typically served on skewers, highlighting the natural sweetness of the fruit.

All Day - Robatayaki - Classic Skewer Sampler
Classic Skewer Sampler US$22.00
One skewer, each of American wagyu, chicken thigh, pork belly, garlic shrimp, and broccoli.

All Day - From the Grill
Kama Of Your Choice US$8.00
Grilled fish collar, grilled veggies, ponzu, and lemon. Hamachi or salmon.
Giant Calamari US$16.00
Grilled whole fresh giant Hokkaido calamari, house tare, spicy mayo dip, and lemon.

All Day - Dessert
Matcha Cheesecake US$9.00
Japanese-style cheesecake with berries.
Mochi Mochi US$9.00
Trio flavor of strawberry, chocolate, and mango.
Yawa Mochi US$9.00
Traditional Japanese matcha gelato with Okinawa red bean paste and soft mochi balls.
Boba Panna Cotta US$9.00
House-made sea-salted caramel panna cotta with brown sugar boba topping.
Sesame Mucho US$9.00
Trio sesame, sesame ice cream, mochi, and biscuit.

The Public Izakaya Details

From the business
Identifies as women-owned

Service options
Outdoor seating
Kerbside pickup
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Comfort food
Happy-hour drinks
Healthy options
Small plates
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Brunch
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy

Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Locals
Transgender safe space

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

The Public Izakaya Photos

The Public Izakaya Location

The Public Izakaya

California San Francisco County San Francisco Lower Nob Hill Post Street

700 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94109, USA

The Public Izakaya Reviews

I can’t believe I never wrote a review for this place. Walked in you just feel like you went back to Japan. The decoration inside is so cute. The service was very fast attentive. The food came really fast too, and you can tell that they are fried chicken were freshly fried. We also got a cup of drink and it was also pretty good. They have a good selection of Japanese wine too. The sesame dessert we got at the end was so cool and we really loved it. It truly feels like you went back in Japan and go to Izakaya. I would definitely recommend here.
February 28 · Hilda Liu
Solid late-night food spot, good for groups to share some drinks and bites. Decor and ambiance were fitting for an izakaya. I especially enjoyed the posters and Japanese figurines. A bit overpriced in my opinion, came out to be around 50pp.Food was decent. I think our favorite was the shishito peppers and the kyoto beers. Huge fan of the kyoto yuzu beer, although it was a bit pricey for a beer bottle but I guess that's the tariffs ruining everything good. Couldn't really taste the spicy scallop as much over the sauce they put on top. Hamachi tasted great. Forgot to grab a picture of the motsunabe but we shared that between two people. It's nice they have the hotpot setup for the table, just wish it was less pricey.Our waitress was not very knowledgeable about the menu unfortunately. I asked if noodles and other veggies came with the nabe other than what was listed in the menu, and she said noodles definitely come and other veggies like broccoli and carrot. But in reality none of that was true. We ended up having to order a side of ramen noodles for the soup. The service was still accommodating and nice but we would have ordered something else if we had known.
May 21 · Ying Zhang
Hidden gem! Hard to find Izakaya like this in SF, nice vibe, reasonable price, wide variety of items, not all of them are great but if you order the typical Izakaya food like chicken skin, shishito you will be good. Sukiyaki was very good too - tons of good beef. Generous portion size!Don’t come here just for sushi though - that was mediocre.Next time you find yourself in a crazy long line for Mensho try it here
May 17 · Seline Chen
Came here with zero expectation for a late night dinner after a flight and left very satisfied. The unagi don was definitely great, but the slices of duck breast were excellent and surprisingly very memorable. Fantastic and kind service.
March 14 · Khoi Pham
Had this place in my favorites for several months and so I had a ton of anticipation leading up to actually trying it today—it totally hit the mark. We got the skewer sampler, the toro roll, and the chirashi don. All 3 were excellent; the skewers were all outstanding! Perfectly grilled and extremely tasty (not to mention harder to find at your typical Japanese restaurant). The ambience was great too—very Japanese and colorful and upbeat. Pretty good value for money for SF, though I might try to come back during the happy hour next time.
May 11 · Alexa Loste