Editor Pick
Ebisu
- June 6, 2000
- Rated 4 of 5 by
chewie from New York City, New York
Ebisu is one of those small, inconsipicuous restaurants whose business thrives based on word of mouth and consistently fresh sushi. And it's also about the art and fun of the sushi experience that makes Ebisu popular.
As you walk into the place, be prepared to sign your name up on a list and wait for a bit. Reservations are not taken. But the wait is well worth it. I've been to Ebisu many times, and I've never been disappointed. The row of sushi chefs are humorous and friendly, greeting you loudly as you walk in.
The restaurant has a sushi bar, tables, and a room for traditional floor seating. But if you get the chance, go for the bar, where your Ebisu experience will be the most enjoyable and entertaining. You'll get the best treatment and they give you an endless bowl of Japanese soybeans on the house. You tell the sushi maker what you want and they make it for you on the spot.
My favorites are the spider roll (deep fried soft shell crab) and the caterpillar roll (spicy tuna wrapped in dried and fresh seaweed made to look like a caterpillar). And of course the yellow tail, tuna, salmon, and eel nigiri is all delicious and fresh. Ebisu also has special kinds of sushi, like their 49er roll (of course), that's not on the menu. So just ask.
What really makes this restaurant great is that you feel like family after one visit. The service is quick but they don't rush you, and the staff is friendly. Everyone who frequents the place knows the proprietor and sushi maker, Steve Fujii, and the sushi makers will gladly drink a round of Asahi with you if you make them the offer. Gum bei!
One more fact: Ebisu even has a membership card that you can purchase for $25 that allows you a 10 percent discount on every meal. If you are an SF local, you'll get your money's worth.
From journal City by the Bay