Seemor
RintaroAWorth Trying
82 14th St, San Francisco, CA 94103
· Izakaya restaurant, Japanese restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (1343 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Beautiful, chef-driven izakaya with standout sashimi, udon, and katsu; excellent ambiance but uneven service and pacing, mandatory 20% service fee, and high prices make value feel mixed.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Rintaro exemplifies grade A standards through exceptional food quality anchored by pristine sashimi, handmade udon, and charcoal-grilled yakitori, paired with outstanding interior design that creates an intimate, craft-focused atmosphere. However, inconsistent service pacing and a mandatory 20% service fee temper the experience, preventing the higher distinction that flawless execution would command. Strong authenticity and loyal following confirm this is a genuinely excellent neighborhood izakaya, not a tourist-driven concept.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and crafted, all honeyed wood and pottery that make even a bar seat feel special. Guests describe watching skewers kiss the coals while servers explain pairings; one diner said it felt like a calm trip to Tokyo. However, service pacing can lag and the 20% service fee makes stumbles more noticeable, so plan for a leisurely meal. The cooking leans elevated traditional: clean sashimi with fresh wasabi, charcoal-licked yakitori, handmade udon, and crisp katsu. The culinary approach leans contemporary craft with premium sourcing (innovation level 6.8): refined technique and product-driven flavor more than fireworks. If you love focused seasoning, texture, and umami, the kama tama udon and sashimi deliver; if you want big, punchy flavors, some dishes may read restrained. For families, there are kid-friendly anchors like chicken katsu, tonkatsu, and udon, plus simple skewers. No explicit kids menu, but options are approachable. Portions skew refined rather than huge, so order accordingly. If your crew prefers very familiar comfort food only, the menu’s focus on classic Japanese preparations might feel limited.
At a Glance
- Gorgeous handcrafted interior and courtyard ambiance
- Standout sashimi, udon, and katsu with premium ingredients
- Service pacing and check-ins can be inconsistent
- Mandatory 20% service fee impacts perceived value
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- carpentered_wood_interior
- chef_counter_experience
- housemade_udon_and_tofu
What People Love
- Feeling transported by the crafted space
- Silky hojicha panna cotta to finish
- Kama tama udon with perfect chew
- Crisp katsu with juicy center
- Attentive guidance at the bar seats
Points of Concern
- Service pacing and check-ins inconsistent, especially late seatings
- Mandatory 20% service fee regardless of experience
- Some find flavors restrained or portions small for price
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (not detected) is not applicable
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$58-78 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pair a sashimi plate with one fried item and an udon to balance richness and comfort
- Yakitori flight plus yosedofu makes a lighter, elegant path
- If dairy-free, flag early; confirm substitutions are coursed on time
Perfect For
- Counter-seat date nights watching the grill
- Sashimi and sake-focused evenings
- Small celebrations with design-minded friends
- Solo diners who enjoy chef interaction
Location Insights
Area: Creative, dining-heavy corridor between Mission and SoMa; draws food lovers, date nights, and design-minded diners.
Safety: Urban block with mixed foot traffic; generally safe but can feel gritty late night; typical SF street conditions.
Nearby: Near Valencia/16th dining, performance spaces, and bars; easy to pair with neighborhood nightlife.
South of Market (SoMa)SoMa is characterized by a mix of converted warehouses, new residential buildings, and tech company headquarters. The dining scene is diverse, ranging from trendy cafes and upscale restaurants to casual eateries and food trucks, catering to a vibrant, mostly young and professional crowd. The area is lively, with a strong emphasis on innovation and nightlife.
Mid-MarketMid-Market is a sub-area within SoMa known for its concentration of tech startups and renovated historic buildings. It has seen significant revitalization, attracting a mix of professionals and creatives who frequent its modern bars, restaurants, and cultural spots.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:00–22:00
Tuesday17:00–22:00
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–22:00
Friday17:00–22:00
Saturday17:00–22:00
Sunday
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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