Ebisu

In a city overflowing with casual sushi spots, Ebisu stands out. This place has been in the Inner Sunset for over forty years, and is still packed with people here for straightforward rolls, nigiri, and handrolls, and superb appetizers, like miso-glazed eggplant and agedashi tofu. Things here also run smoothly: Even though Ebisu is loud and the tables are somewhat cramped, the service is quick and the people running it are always checking in on you. Post up at the sushi counter where things feel less chaotic, stick to the rolls, and pay extra attention to the specials on the board, like half-shell oysters. 

Food Rundown

Miso Glazed Eggplant

Thick miso sauce topped with toasted sesame makes this dish. It’s spread over two eggplant slices and is melt-in-your-mouth creamy. Sriracha comes on the side, but you won’t really need it.

Behind The Green Door

We’re into just about anything topped with maui onions, so we love Behind The Green Door. For the seafood, shrimp tempura on the inside, and bonito on top. The whole thing is slathered with an aioli.

photo credit: Krescent Carasso

Nigiri

We stick to the specialty rolls at Ebisu, but turn to the specials behind the long sushi counter if we’re looking for straight fish. The nigiri is simple and solid—just don’t go in expecting any gold foil or caviar treatment.