Saru Sushi Bar

"This Noe Valley neighborhood favorite, with a sister location in Russian Hill, makes an affordable option for rolls and nigiri — assuming you can find a seat at either the small bar or in the dining room. The restaurant proudly offers three kinds of soy sauce and uses red vinegar to season its sushi rice." - Dianne de Guzman, Eater Staff

"You'll probably have to wait for a table at this walk-in-only spot in Noe Valley. It’s tiny, with just a few seats at the bar and a couple of dining room tables. But when you finally sit and the friendly staff starts bringing perfect pieces of fatty tuna and yellowtail belly nigiri to the table, you’ll know the wait was worth it. Come to Saru to share the more basic sushi rolls, like sweet potato tempura or tuna maki, and specialty ones like the White Out with seared escarole and garlic ponzu. " - julia chen 1, lani conway

"On date nights when you forgot to make a reservation, the solution is usually Saru Sushi. The walk-in-only spot in Noe Valley has perpetual lines, but when you finally sit and the friendly staff starts bringing perfect fatty tuna and yellowtail belly nigiri to the table, you’ll know the wait was worth it. We love everything here, from the basic sushi rolls like sweet potato tempura, to specialty ones like the White Out with seared escarole and garlic ponzu. " - Julia Chen 1, Lani Conway, Ricky Rodriguez

"Saru Sushi Bar is the queen bee of casual sushi in Noe Valley, and it’s a damn good spot we wish was in every neighborhood. Their specialty rolls, like the White Out with seared escarole and garlic ponzu, are an exciting antidote to any weeknight blues. As are their well-executed nigiri, like fatty tuna, yellowtail belly, and uni. The place is tiny but keeps things moving efficiently. You’ll probably have to wait in line before sliding into the bar or snagging one of just a few tables." - Lani Conway, Ricky Rodriguez, Julia Chen 1

"Hilly Noe Valley is the perfect setting for this jewel of a sushi restaurant, so make your way inside to discover a bustling (read: energetic) vibe. The menu is thoroughly Japanese with a few Californian touches—think grilled shishito peppers tossed with crunchy daikon in a ponzu dressing.Begin with the signature tempura-fried seaweed cracker topped with spicy tuna and avocado. Then, perfectly sized tasting spoons of seared ankimo with scallions, as well as halibut tartare with yuzu make for delightful quick bites. Though rolls are available, regulars opt for the nigiri, which might include kampachi, baby snapper and snow crab. Several omakase (including an all-salmon variation) are also on offer. Since Saru doesn't take reservations, arrive early to avoid a line." - Michelin Inspector