Sawa Sushi

Wonderful food, atmosphere, and service! Every plate we were served had a unique flavour, from the distinctly fresh sashimi to the handmade sauces paired with it. We also got to eat lots of sashimi and fish that's normally hard to come by elsewhere due to their required freshness to serve. Particularly tasty was the "world's best uni" that we had, which lives up to the bold claim. The atmosphere was quiet, allowing for easy conversation with Steve, the chef. He's the only one running the show, and the care he puts into every plate is apparent in how good they taste. Pricey, but the experience of good food and the great personality of the chef are worth it.

We walked in from great ratings online. Unfortunately we didn’t realize the place was reservation only. The man who was serving food to a group pointed at his shirt which says “no reservation, there’s the door” it was awkward and showed a distinct lack of respect to us and the party for letting us walk into the private event. Perhaps the chef / owner should invest in a host and atrium to avoid such ridiculous interactions. We will not be back.

The chef is very rude, he is wearing a shirt that says "no reservation there is the door" .. When people walked in he didn't even talk, he was pointing to his shirt waiting for people to read it. He should simply put a sign outside. Not sure why the place has high rating, it is very small, very warm / hot inside. Do not go here, there are better places in bay area

Better than many Michelin star restaurants! Why? Because it is not corporate but curated as a magical, out-there, just-for-you experience. You will not get in without a reservation. It was only the 2 of us, and I think the chef had bought the fish just for us on that very day. Some tech bros in pajamas showed up and he turned them away saying this was a private experience. Every course was perfect and different. Rare fish and the most exclusive ones. Hard to put into words to taste unfamilar but reminiscent flavors. Accompanied by purées of interesting vegetables and spice notes. The sake and beer pairings took it to another level. You lose yourself in ectasy. A hidden gem. Like a speak-easy. An unassuming parking lot with chain restaurants that add to the seamless experience. If you have taste and know what Michelin star restaurants can run you, come here instead to be served by a chef and get the experience you cherish for years to come. It's a story.

Freshest and highest quality of ingredients, mostly from Japan. Grade AAA Uni and Hotate from Hokkaido, Wagyu beef from Kobe, etc. Our family had all sorts of sashimis and Wagyu, no sushi. Chef paired different source for different sashimi. Delicious. We have been to all Michelin star Japanese restaurants in the SF Bay area except Shota. Most of them served traditional style dishes. We like Sawa the most. Steve is always friendly and accommodating. Also full of fun. Caution: high quality and freshest ingredients come with high cost.