Hana Zen

Frommer's Review

Even most locals don't know about this Japanese restaurant, mistaking it for just another touristy sushi bar. Sure, they serve good sushi, but what makes this place special is the yakitori bar, which cranks out savory skewered and grilled meats and veggies that we can never seem to get enough of. It's all prepared Benihana style, with acrobatic chefs whirling knives around and making lots of "Hai!" "ahhh," and "ooohh" sounds. My favorites are the asparagus spears wrapped in thinly sliced pork, and the grilled marinated shiitake mushrooms. A few tables are perched beside windows overlooking downtown San Francisco, but the best seats are at the long, arched yakitori bar, where the deft chefs spear together nearly 30 versions of the meal-on-a-stick. You can order either one pair at a time if you like the show, or all at once for a feast; about a half dozen make a meal. The terminally indecisive can opt for the Yakitori Dinner Set for $20, which makes an interesting light meal for two.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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