Cafe Okawari

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1 month ago

Stumbled onto this place in a mild hunger panic on the way back from the city, looking for something Japanese before jumping on 280. Yelp delivered. Parked easily on the side street, walked in around 3:30 in the afternoon, no hassle. The place has an authentic Japanese cafe feel, the kind where the menu has things you don't typically find at your average sushi spot. I had my eye on the sandos, specifically the Chicken Katsu Sando, but landed on the Spicy Tuna Don instead. Good call. Spicy yellowfin tuna tartare over well-seasoned sushi rice, topped with sesame, furikake, green onions, with a little radish and cucumber on the side. The tuna was very fresh, the rice was on point. Service was quick and polite - they even have an outside window for takeout. One nice detail: a neat dollop of wasabi is pasted along the inside wall of the bowl, which is a clean way of letting you control exactly how much heat you want to mix in. Tasteful presentation, but don't let that fool you. It has a legitimate kick, so calibrate accordingly. Paired it with their Honjozo dry sake cup, which was a nice complement to the meal and exactly the right call for a mid-afternoon bite. The sandos looked great on other tables and I fully intend to go back for the Chicken Katsu Sando - and then go try the wine bar next door to it. which was pretty tempting. read more

Cafe Okawari - Sake Cup - pretty easy to drink from this thing - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

Cafe Okawari - Spicy Tuna Don - That wasabi on the sidewall is just tempting you to take a big bite of it - beware - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Andy L.

551

390

287

1 month ago

We had a wonderful meal at Cafe Okawari before the Giants game. It's a great location that's 1.5 blocks from the ballpark, and very close to the Caltrain station. The restaurant was full when we got there, but the food still came out soon after we ordered. We had chicken katsu curry, korokke curry, and a menchi (fried ground chicken) sando. The chicken katsu was among the best I've ever had, super juicy inside and crunchy outside. One of the greatest quick bites I've had in recent memory. read more

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Anchal A.

26

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385

2 months ago

This review is for their matcha only, not food. Stumbled upon this place and I'm surprised I haven't heard of it before! I got a plain iced matcha and it was so. good. The matcha flavor was strong and the drink overall was creamy. I got it less sweet but did end up adding splenda in it later on. They have a lot of food which smells delish, haven't tried it yet tho! read more

Cafe Okawari - Iced matcha latte - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Erica W K.

36

191

484

3 months ago

One of the best katsu sandwiche places in the Bay Area! Cafe Okawari has been on my list for the longest time and I'm glad I finally got the chance to try it. I went on a weeknight at around dinner hours at 6pm and the place was busy but not packed. I managed to find a spot very quickly after ordering. We first ordered at the counter and then the seats are self-served. I got the fried chicken katsu sando with their house soda. The katsu sando is 5/5. The chicken is juicy and tender. The outside is crispy. The pickled cucumber and the lettuce are so refreshing to pair with the katsu. The bread.. let's talk about how amazing it is. The bread is fluffy and milky. What stands out to me is really how soft and fluffy the bread is. I took one bite and immediately know that this katsu sandwich would be bomb. The house soda is just alright, solid 3/5, nothing too surprising. I would definitely come back for the sando again! read more

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Brittany D.

651

715

4074

5 months ago

Japanese sandos? yummmmm, some of the best in town I must say. If I'm in the mood for a chicken katsu sando, I come here. Why? Because it's consistent and just the right amount of crisp. I also love their fruit sandwiches. I think tho the katsu sando is the best texturally with the softness of the bread and the crunch of the katsu. If you don't believe me, try for yourself! read more

Cafe Okawari - Menu - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

Cafe Okawari - Menchi Sando - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Jamie T.

386

133

631

4 months ago

Staff members are friendly and polite. Orders are made fairly quickly. Love that! It's fresh and delicious. My go to is the chicken katsu sando and dirty matcha. Bon appetite! read more

Cafe Okawari - Chicken Katsu Sando + Dirty Matcha - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Jenna M.

35

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5 months ago

Stopped in for lunch on a weekday and was pleasantly surprised! The area has so many options and this is a great one with coffee and meals of varying sizes to please all! The curry katsu plate is a pretty solid size with tender yet crispy chicken and rich curry! Highly recommend if you are in the area! read more

Cafe Okawari - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Wendy L.

6

21

46

6 months ago

Tried the Chicken Katsu Sando since I was in the area and it did not disappoint! $17 feels pricey for a sando, but it was a pretty hefty portion that left me very full. The bread was soft and pillowy, the chicken was super juicy, and there was a perfect amount of thinly shredded cabbage that added the right amount of fresh crunch. I do wish the breading was slightly crispier/thicker, and that there was bit more of the tonkatsu sauce, but those two changes probably would've made the sandwich overall more heavy (I appreciated how light it was despite being a fried chicken sandwich). If you're a saucy, strong flavor type of person, you might find the sandwich too plain flavor-wise, but I'm sure you can ask for some tonkatsu sauce on the side, or order a side of curry sauce to dip your sandwich for an extra fee -- another Yelper recommended this so I might try it next time! I also ordered an iced strawberry matcha latte to-go and it was solid. FYI you can adjust the ice and sweetness (which would be adjusting the amount of strawberry puree they use). I got light ice and default sweetness and the sweetness was just right. The strawberry balanced the matcha nicely, but I wish the drink was a little less milky and that the strawberry flavor came through more. Overall, I'm sure there's other better sandos and matcha lattes out there, but as some reviewers have pointed out, there's not a lot of places that have this casual Japanese cafe-style offering in SF or even The Bay in general, so this place is a keeper! Service was fast during Monday lunch hour -- I ordered my food at the front, sat at the counter, and got my food in literally 3 minutes. read more

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Pam K.

30

471

1432

3 months ago

They serve fantastic matcha lattes and chicken katsu sandwiches in a snap! The service is fast and friendly. The entrance is small so it can feel crowded quickly if it gets busy which it totally does. read more

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Eva C.

37

407

4375

5 months ago

Yummy pork cutlet sando! I've been wanting to try this place but it only opens on weekdays. I was able to try this place before going to a concert at chase center on a weekday. There are seats inside and they also have one restroom. Not sure about parking since it is in the city. The sando was pretty yummy! The pork cutlet was juicy and their sauce was nice with the milk bread. read more

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Chastity V.

343

301

538

7 months ago

5 stars for the Chicken Katsu Sando! The panko fried chicken thighs are juicy, paired with the right amount of mayo and sauce and cabbage on delicious milk bread. We ordered at the counter and were able to get seats for 2 people around 11:50am on a Wednesday. Our food was served to us within 12 minutes. My friend and I split the seasonal Mango Cream Sando for dessert (3/5), which was mildly disappointing only because the mangos weren't sweet. I also got the green tea lemonade (4/5), which was decent. read more

Cafe Okawari - Mango Cream Sando - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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CeCe C.

1134

889

997

8 months ago

I stumbled upon this little cafe this evening! It was a nice surprise to find esp in this neighborhood! I ordered the beef gyudon ($17.50) and substituted the rice with salad. I also got the housemade soda ($4.50)! My friend ordered the chicken katsu ($13) Both dishes were very tasty and filling! The staff was very quick with servicing us our food and friendly! The bathrooms are clean and the seating area is casual and spacious! read more

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Celine T.

10

53

77

6 months ago

Tried out this small cafe that was cozy with a few tables. Food came out relatively quick as it wasn't busy on a Friday afternoon. Chicken Katsu sando size was decent and flavorful! Croquette curry was good too, but felt a bit pricey to receive just 2 croquettes, curry sauce, and rice. Likely would not get that plate again as it did not felt worth the price. May go back for the katsu sando! read more

Cafe Okawari - Chicken Katsu, Croquette Curry - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Roop K.

106

607

708

9 months ago

Underrated place IMO, the food and drinks speak for itself. Iced matcha is excellent, level of sweetness is adjustable. Quality and gradient is on the better end. $6.52 a cup so not too bad price wise. 2nd day in a row that im here.... read more

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Ming C.

171

41

118

8 months ago

Wish I could gatekeep this place honestly! It's so goood. I used to live in Mission Bay and would regularly get their katsu sandos. Then I read a yelp review saying I have to get curry sauce on the side for dipping and when I say my third eye awakened.... I remember the day like it was yesterday, I was fighting with my partner over something trivial as one would in a happy relationship. We walked in silence along the Embarcadero path, my anger simmering like the sun beating down on my neck. He pulls out our sandwiches and we take a break on the side to eat....anyway now we're engaged--not because of this sandwich, but perhaps it played a role. Unfortunately, I don't have a photo of the sando from that day but I did return and also got their katsu curry plate which was just as good! Also love their yuzu soda. Service is always quick and friendly and the restaurant is small and cozy but very clean. read more

Cafe Okawari - Chicken Katsu Plate - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

Cafe Okawari - Katsu Sando with Curry Sauce - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Jessica H.

57

650

1222

10 months ago

The menchi sando had delicately sliced cabbage which was very tasty and gave good texture. The actual patty itself was not as pleasant unfortunately, very chicken-y and a greasy flavor. The milk bread was nice and pillowy, holding everything together. I would have liked more sauce on the sandwich. Their iced hojicha latte was nice and strong. Refreshing bold taste. No restrooms. read more

Cafe Okawari - iced hojicha latte - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Katrina V.

619

2064

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10 months ago

I was walking to the train station and randomly came across Cafe Okawari. It's a cute but quaint Japanese restaurant specializing in sandos and curries. Staff was friendly, and they prepped my food very fast. I got my food in ~5 minutes after ordering. I'm a huge fan of milk bread sandos, so I had to try their egg sando and chicken katsu sando. Loved both of them. The egg salad sando was exactly what I needed. Took me back to my trip to Japan and 7-11 egg salad sando. It's far better tasting though... and more expensive. I also loved the chicken katsu sando. The chicken was nicely crispy on the outside and had juicy, moist thigh meat. The chopped cabbage was so crisp, and the Japanese teriyaki sauce attributed to a nice flavor overall. I would certainly be back again, and I look forward to trying other things off their menu. read more

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Brett N.

3133

3700

5297

1 year ago

Why 5 stars? Because our first meal in SF was ideal. --- --- --- I took my Dad to SF - the first trip of his life to the city at the age of 66. I would not label him an adventurous eater, so when I explained to him what a chicken katsu sando was, he was not very excited. As we stood in a short line, he even suggested we try another place because we didn't see any open seats and he didn't think he was going to like it. But I spotted an empty table outside and said I would pay for his meal if he didn't like it. So we ordered and migrated outside, and we were in heaven. 60 degrees and blue skies when we woke up that morning in the steam room that is Houston. And then the food came and we remained in a state of paradise. I have probably only had a chicken katsu sando a couple of times, but this was definitely the best one yet. The strawberry sandos were great too. My dad loved both and said if he Yelped, he would have given it 5-stars. So consider this a 10-star cumulative review. read more

Cafe Okawari - Chicken Katsu Sando and Strawberry Sandos - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Nanase T.

8

37

116

9 months ago

Visited with two friends for lunch to catch up with each other! We arrived a little after 1:30 PM on a Tuesday and found a decent line outside. Ordering happens at the front, then you seat yourself. Seatings are available both inside and outside, but we opted for an inside seating. Albeit how packed the place was, we were fortunately able to get a table and pull in an extra chair. The ambiance is cozy and minimalistic. The cashier staff was friendly, and our orders came out quickly. I ordered strawberry matcha latte and menchi sando. Strawberry Matcha: Served in a big glass. Refreshing, though a bit milkier than my personal preference. Menchi Sando: I don't think many places in town serve menchi (in a sando or by itself). I was impressed with the crispiness and meatiness of menchi and its savory flavor. I really enjoyed this place and will definitely be back for more savory sandos and to try some sweet sandos! read more

Cafe Okawari - Strawberry Matcha Latte - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Ava X.

0

16

44

1 month ago

We really liked their chicken katsu here, whether with the sandwich or with curry and rice. It is a nice place for lunch or dinner. The overall service is really fast. read more

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Elaine Y.

1044

1672

4584

1 year ago

Placed an order to go before the Warriors game and it was ready in 10 which allowed us just enough time to eat them relatively still warm and fresh. Yum! Both the egg sando and the katsu sando were super tasty. The egg sando was nice and creamy with a super soft shokupan. I think it'd be nice if the egg wasn't fridge cold but that's just a small observation since I remember the fresh ones in Japan at least being lukewarm. The katsu sando was balanced. It was crispy, fresh, and just a little tangy also accompanied by a nice soft shokupan. Definitely will look to Cafe Okawari again for those game days. You may pay the same price as stadium food but the quality is infinitely better! read more

Cafe Okawari - Egg Salad Sando w/ Jidori Egg - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Marcus C.

28

107

432

6 months ago

Cafe Okawari is a cozy cafe in Mission Bay that serves a Japanese menu with classics. You order in the front and seat yourself. I shared the Egg Salad Sando w/ Jidori Egg and the Chicken Katsu Curry with my friend, and they were both delicious. The curry was very flavorful, but I wish there was more for the amount of rice given. The Egg Salad Sando reminded me of the 7/11 egg salad sandwiches in Japan, but with more whole eggs for texture. I felt like the price was a little steep for the portion size, but I would come back to try their other items. read more

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Vicky L.

85

185

350

3 months ago

I love me a good sando so I stopped by with friends for a snack. We got the katsu sando and the fruit sando. The milk bread is light and airy and the katsu was flavorful and juicy. However, it wasn't anything crazy and quite expensive. The fruit sando also what you would expect, light airy bread and fresh strawberries. Ordering was very easy and staff is very nice as well. Wasn't packed at all on a weekday at night, it was also very clean inside. Overall it's a great spot to stop by if you're in the area but not sure if I would come all the way for it. read more

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Crystal L.

21

62

220

1 year ago

Been wanting to try this place and was in the area so I got the following: (8/10) Menchi Sando - Good overall. The bread was not soggy and the chicken was crispy. The chicken was not greasy and didn't feel heavy. Rather expensive for a sandwich being $17 alone. Service was pleasant and fast. Water is self serve near the tray return. There is limited seating on both the inside and outside. Modern interior and design. read more

Cafe Okawari - Outside - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Crystal T.

1

96

74

1 year ago

super juicy chicken katsu that oozes with juices if squeezed. Probably the best chicken sando sandwich I've ever had! read more

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Allison W.

35

346

1127

1 year ago

Love this place! Came here with my friends at around 1:30 PM for a later linch and the line was decently long and the seating was fairly packed. You order at the front counter first before sitting down. We managed to snag a table inside and pull extra chairs, but there's more seating outside as well. Inside can be a bit noisy, but nothing unmanageable-- we could hear each other just fine. I got the Spicy Tuna Don and the Strawberry Matcha Latte. They cane out fairly quickly, less than 10 minutes. Spicy Tuna Don: 5/5, nicely sized portion with good spice coming from the fish! You can substitute the rice at the bottom with greens if you like. Strawberry Matcha Latte: 4/5, a big glass! The strawberry flavor was very nice, a little milky for my taste. I love this place and will keep coming back, especially for their different seasonal fruit sandwiches! read more

Cafe Okawari - Spicy Tuna Don and Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

Cafe Okawari - Iced Strawberry Matcha Latte - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Genevieve Y.

777

522

14158

1 year ago

date & time: summer vibe: co-workers in aritzia sweaters, denim & ballet flats w/ strap decor: quaint cafe service: efficient devour: strawberry sando total: $13.50 read more

Cafe Okawari - strawberry cream sando - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Katelyn R.

57

138

388

1 year ago

Cool 3.8, everything pictured was great but the egg sandwich had hella shells bro lol the one thing I was most excited about. Anyway the spicy tuna was seasoned perfectly, the croquettes were bomb, and the chicken katsu sandwich was nice and fat, really juicy, lightly sauced & the pickles were not super tangy how they usually are. The bread they use is a bit thicker than I'm what I'm used to from Japan but it is still pillowy soft. read more

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Rome K.

185

89

541

9 months ago

*Late Review Post* We stopped by here our last day in SF for a quick morning pick me up. It's a very small shop, not good for groups. We got there right as they opened & there was quickly a long line out the door. The service was very quick. We ordered their egg sandos and their curry, which were both delicious. If you've never had Japanese curry, it's not the same as Southern Asian curry. It's a very light curry taste with a gravy consistency-- and SO SO good. The drinks were good as well; I wish the Hojicha had a stronger smokier taste to it but it was fine. I think the highlight was my friend asking if she had to go back in line to order something else and the cafe staff said yes, you do! And threw in a heel turn and sass that had us giggling the rest of the day ;D read more

Cafe Okawari - Latte & Iced Hojicha Latte - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

Cafe Okawari - Chicken Curry & Rice - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Minh-Uyen N.

146

93

136

1 year ago

Made a random pit stop here for brunch and very glad we did so! The aesthetics of this place reminds me of Japan; wooden signs and tables paired with lots of greenery. The food came out really fast and service was great. We ordered an egg sando and fruit sando, both came out already halved so perfect for mixing and matching. The sandos capture the simplicity of Japanese sandos, with a very authentic flavor. The strawberry matcha had a strong matcha taste. Overall very delicious although definitely on the more expensive side. read more

Cafe Okawari - Egg Sando and Fruit Sando - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Camille E.

554

68

194

1 year ago

Cute spot on Townsend, a brief walk from South Park or the ball park. The chicken katsu sandwich is delicious, and surprisingly light for this type of sandwich. There's a small outdoor uncovered parklet with 3 tables to enjoy on a nice day, and plenty of space indoors! Excited to try the other plates and dishes as well. Even coming at the tail end of the lunch rush, food came out surprisingly quickly! read more

Cafe Okawari - Store Front - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Mike C.

0

3

1

4 months ago

Looked quickly at the menu and decided on a beef gyu-Don. Came out within a few minutes... at the same time I got my hojicha latte. The beef itself had some flavor but I felt like the overall fish was a little dry, even a little jus from the beef would have helped. The hojicha latte had some tea flavor but mostly tasted like milk, I'd expect a stronger tea flavor. Lastly, minor detail but I was charged $3 for an egg though it's supposed to cost $2.50 read more

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David R.

1

134

28

2 months ago

What a great place near the Giants ballpark. Those fruit sandwiches are sooooo addictive

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Isabella R.

7

72

281

10 months ago

Café Akwari - A Hidden Gem for Katsu and Matcha Lovers Café Akwari is one of those rare spots that blends thoughtful food, a chill atmosphere, and genuinely great service--all in a clean, café-style setting that makes you want to stay a little longer. I came in craving comfort food and left already planning my return. Food: I ordered the Katsu curry, and it was absolutely delicious. The Katsu was crispy and tender, paired with a rich, flavorful curry sauce that had great depth without being too heavy. I really appreciated the option to split the side between rice and salad--it made the dish feel well-rounded without sacrificing any comfort. We also tried the Katsu Sando, and it did not disappoint. The cutlet was perfectly fried, thick, and juicy (though I'm not sure if it was chicken or pork--either way, it was amazing). The bread was soft, and the sauce tied everything together in the best way. It's a great option if you're in the mood for something compact but still filling. Drinks: Matcha fans, you need to try the strawberry matcha drink. It was one of my favorite parts of the meal--refreshing, beautifully layered, and not overly sweet. You get a great balance of the earthy matcha and light fruitiness from the strawberry. Easily one of the best matcha drinks I've had in the city. Atmosphere & Service: Although the setup is casual café-style, the service was genuinely great--fast, friendly, and thoughtful. The space is also super cute, minimalist but warm, and it all feels very clean and well-kept. Final Thoughts: Café Akwari exceeded my expectations in every way. Whether you're in the mood for comforting Japanese-style dishes, a standout matcha drink, or just a peaceful spot to enjoy good food, this place checks all the boxes. I'd definitely come back--this is the best Katsu I've tried in San Francisco so far. read more

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Forest C.

1

30

43

1 year ago

I think this place is a little underrated. If I had to compare this to literally the best chicken katsu sando I had, then sure it might not compare. But in the Bay Area, this is definitely THE spot I would immediately think of if someone is craving or want to have a chicken katsu sando. The chicken is SO juicy, maybe it was the day I went but the 2 days I went were both SO juicy. It's clean, it's easy to eat. The only small thing I would say is that I wish there was just a tad bit more seasoning to the chicken or the batter, it's one of them. I don't think it's fair to give it 4 stars if it's not the best I've ever had cause they there would hardly be any 5 stars I give out but if I were to say what's the best in the bay? 100% this place. read more

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Kevin N.

9

85

200

1 year ago

Great spot for some quick, simple, and healthy but good Japanese comfort food. Ordered a beef gyudon to go for lunch and my order came out super quick within 10 mins before I even was able to get there to pickup. Food tasted great though it is on the pricier side but that is the case with a lot of downtown restaurants now. Meat was super tender and flavorful. Great protein option if you want something healthy. Would definitely come back to try the other options as well! read more

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Colin M.

Elite 16

837

191

305

10 months ago

Great Katsu sando and egg sandos. Chicken teriyaki was so dry even for dark meat. Probably because it sits in their pot of hot water all day taking away all moisture from it. We barely touched it and even brought it up that it was like chewing cotton. There was no proactive action. Response was "oh sorry" as other staff heard too and made eye contact with me yet no one said anything. Basically just threw away a couple of hard earned deflated dollars. These are little missed opportunities to make a good place great. It doesn't take away from their juicy katsu chicken sandos and other items but if you are looking for a stellar service to back the integrity of their product, they aren't there yet. Especially after tipping 15% at a spot you need to self clean and no service other than dropping off food. I hope they make these adjustments because I'd still come back for the sandos prob read more

Cafe Okawari - The chicken katsu sando. Juicy. Really good. Exceptionally well fried. Maybe a little more sauce would be nice. - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

Cafe Okawari - Self explanatory. Milk bread. - Japanese Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Liana L.

634

952

3091

6 months ago

Emilee T. recommended this as the best chicken katsu sando in the city; it did not disappoint. I also picked up the chicken patty katsu sando to compare, and while it was good with the onion flavor, there's something perfect and classic about the chicken katsu sando. It's super juicy and perfectly crispy, and the mayo adds the perfect tang. I also picked up a yuzu soda which was nice, but I would've preferred it a tiny bit sweeter. Perfect if you don't want anything too sweet though! I ordered this to go and it came out pretty quickly. read more

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Kathleen L.

582

460

2155

2 years ago

This review is just for the egg salad sando togo. My friends and I were attending a concert nearby and needed to grab something quick to devour real quick before the concert. We ordered online for pick-up. Placed the order and picked up our food within 20 minutes. Came in real quick just to pick up the order, but staff was friendly. The egg salad sando was yummy! Bread and eggs were both soft and fluffy. Definitely fulfilled my cravings! I'd love to try the chicken katsu sando next time if I am in the area. read more

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More info about Cafe Okawari

236 Townsend St
San Francisco, CA 94107
Mission Bay
Directions
(415) 801-5927
Call Now
Order Takeout or Delivery
Start Order
Visit Website
https://www.cafeokawari.com

Full menu

Hours

What time does Cafe Okawari open?

Cafe Okawari opens at 10:30 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

What time does Cafe Okawari close?

Cafe Okawari closes at 7:30 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.Cafe Okawari is closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Mon-Fri 10:30 AM - 7:30 PMSat-Sun Closed

Payment methods

Does Cafe Okawari take credit cards?

Yes, Cafe Okawari takes credit cards.

Food & Alcohol

Does Cafe Okawari serve alcohol?

Yes, Cafe Okawari serves alcohol. Beer & Wine Only

Indoor Amenities

Does Cafe Okawari allow dogs?

Yes, Cafe Okawari allows dogs.

Does Cafe Okawari have TVs?

Yes, Cafe Okawari has TVs.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Cafe Okawari have bike parking?

Yes, Cafe Okawari has bike parking.

Does Cafe Okawari have outdoor seating?

Yes, Cafe Okawari has outdoor seating options.

Does Cafe Okawari have parking?

Yes, Cafe Okawari has parking options. Validated Parking

Other Amenities

Does Cafe Okawari have free WiFi?

No, Cafe Okawari does not have free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

Chicken Katsu Sando Curry Rice Egg Salad Spicy Tuna Chicken Teriyaki Beef Gyudon Matcha & Hojicha Latte's Espresso

More Info

Special Hours, Health Score

Cafe Okawari Reviews in Other Languages

Dutch
1 Review

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4.3(1k reviews)

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All around pleasant experience in terms of both the service and coffee. I had the flight and…read morethought it was overall good. They explained that the flight includes an espresso shot, espresso shot with milk, hot coffee, and iced coffee. I hadn't had a straight espresso shot before, so this wasn't for me personally just because it was so overpowering. I enjoyed the other three though. Like the majority of SF, parking is difficult to locate. I was dropped off nearby the location. There is indoor and outdoor seating; I was able to grab an empty spot late in the morning on a weekend, but I don't think seating is always readily available. It's not a huge space.

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Wifi, spots outside, excellent baker items and good coffee! I also love that their ice cubes are…read moremade of coffee. Friendly staff. Follow me for more on BayBitesNSips on Tiktok I'm also a bay area artist and I've just started selling online on Etsy: MLEcolorshop ; if you visit me or tell a friend who likes jewelry, I would appreciate it so much Everything I make is handmade with Polymer Clay and there is no single piece alike. https://www.etsy.com/shop/MLEcolorshop

Spacious spot for your work at home needs if you are able to get a spot!…read more I came to coffee shop on a Wednesday afternoon and was able to grab a seat at the communal table to do some work. They do offer WiFi is a great bonus and they have a restroom for customers. There is a couple of 2 person tables, a window side table for solo patrons, a communal table that can seat 6-8, and lots of outdoor seating. I would classify coffee shop as your neighborhood cafe that is great to get some work done and not necessarily a spot with unique drinks. They do have a good selection of pastries for you to try from (unfortunately I was too full prior to try!) I do appreciate that they did have samples for you to try out. Something cool I noticed is that they did have individual mini water pitchers with mini cups for you to take from their sugar/milk station. It's very thoughtful and I appreciate the attention to detail. Not a spot to drive to or add to the list as a must try but if you need a spot to lock in, this is a good choice if you're in the area :)

0.6 mi•Financial District, SoMa

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Sana'a Cafe

4.6(245 reviews)

I've been coming to Sana Cafe since 2022 with my wife and family, and it holds some really special…read morememories for us. It's more than just a cafe it's a place where we've shared countless conversations, laughs, and quiet moments together. The coffee and food are always great, but what truly makes it our favorite is the warm, welcoming atmosphere that keeps bringing us back.

Pros - open daily and late especially in this area of downtown when most spots are closed on the…read moreweekends, friendly staff. Cons - none! Haha. I only ever tried their iced sanaa latte (medium sweet) and feta cheese hand pie. They both hit the spot every single time. Obsessed. Literally went four days in a row before work because it's just yummy!

1.5 mi•Dogpatch, Potrero Hill

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Sohn

4.3(374 reviews)

Wonderful spot! The service is so nice and the food is great (highly recommend the Korean burger…read moreand cold noodles). Will definitely be coming back to work from here.

Finally got a chance to check out this gorgeous Korean-inspired cafe I've had my eye on for a…read morewhile! The space is beautifully designed--it might be the largest cafe I've seen in San Francisco so far. Hojicha Banana Latte: This one is on the sweeter and richer side. If you are a huge fan of banana flavors, you'll love it! Personally, I prefer my drinks a bit more refreshing, so I might try something different next time. Sohn Breakfast Sandwich: Everything croissant loaded with bacon jam, cheese, and a piece of Korean-style steamed egg. The flavor is definitely rich and savory. It was my first time having steamed egg in a sandwich, and it was such a unique twist! The sandwich was nice and hot. It's quite filling too; I would recommend sharing with a friend :) The food menu selection is a bit limited, but I really like the stunning aesthetics! It's a perfect spot to catch up with friends

Front and center when you enter is the open barista space. Wait here for your take-away order.

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Butter Mandu: Beef filling, cabbage, side of kimchi (3 pc - $8)

Black Bird Bookstore and Cafe

4.5(251 reviews)

6.3 mi•Outer Sunset

Community-oriented cafe in the Outer Sunset district!…read more Blackbird is located across the street from Hook Fish, meaning that parking is packed and hard to find, so use public transit! I have gone to Blackbird a handful of times and have enjoyed the experience each time. Blackbird is primarily a bookstore, but they do have an outdoor window where you can order drinks ranging from matcha (Rocky's Matcha, if you're curious about which brand they use), lattes, and tea. They also carry a good amount of pastries (even mid-day, they have a lot of goodies), which I really appreciated. When you order your drink, you have to enter inside the bookstore to wait for your drink to be called, but you can take the time to stroll around and look at their book selection and trinkets. Heads up: the seating here is limited but very lovely. Inside, there are a couple of community tables, but their outdoor area is absolutely magical, with lush greenery and benches for you to enjoy your drinks. This time around, I got one of their seasonal drinks, a honey lavender vanilla latte, and I paired it with an Earl Grey olive oil loaf. The portion of the pastry was generous and moist, while the icing was not too sweet. Overall, a great pick for a cafe if you're in the area.

I visited Black Bird for the first time because I was attending an author talk. Upon seeing their…read morecafe, I decided to order a few items. Matcha latte with whole milk : It's very savory which is great, unsweetened by default. I thought this was one of the better matchas I've had if you want to be able to taste the matcha strongly. Olive oil spelt cake: It reminds me of pound cake. Not that sweet except the frosting/icing. It was okay but as someone who's not as fond of that kind of cakey texture, I'd probably not get it again. They have a really lovely garden and patio in the back. There is also a bathroom. The acoustics and set up for events isn't great, though. It was hard for me to concentrate on the speaker for the book talk since you can hear the noises from the cafe behind and also the sounds of other store customers all around you. That was the only downside, but I think it's a very charming bookstore otherwise.

Rose Pastry

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Front area of the first floor

Stonemill Matcha

4.2(1.7k reviews)

1.8 mi•Mission

Came here to try the Japanese breakfast! They only offer it on weekdays for dine in only and they…read morehave a limited quantity, so be sure to come early. Our group came around 1pm and was able to grab the last 3 sets. Our party of 6 was able to share the 3 sets and feel relatively full. There was a range of dishes, of the selection the tempura and the silky eat was quite delicious. We found the Napa to be a bit floral for our taste but a perfect palette cleanser. The staff were the sweetest and combined tables together to let our party sit together. They even put a candle in the matcha tart for my birthday!

Went to Stonemill for the first time and it was definitely a cute vibe! Open kitchen so you can…read morelook around and cute cafe vibes but it is a bit small! You order before you get seated when you first walk in. Def gets busy after 12! We got the hojicha latte and strawberry latte. The hojicha was very nice and nutty. It came a little too unsweetened for my liking but they have sweetened out to adjust for your liking! I would def come back to get this! 8/10! The strawberry latte on the other hand was very overpoweringly flavored of the strawberry jam :(. I felt it tasted a bit artificial and didn't really let the matcha taste come through, I would stick to-the hojicha. 4.5/10 For food we got the fish sandwich and the pork katsu sandwich. The fish sandwich was decent, the cheese was cold but the fish was nice and flaky. I wish the fish skin was a bit more crunchy but I did like the slaw and sauce on it. 6.5/10 The pork one was soooo good and juicy. The crust was super crunchy and surrounded by the soft bread was such a nice texture. There was a sweet sauce which balanced the sandwhich nicely. Would get again! 8/10 We also saw the Japanese breakfast bento which looked realllly good and the salmon with matcha broth that others ordered and would def come back to try those! TLDR; would get the pork katsu sandwhich and hojicha. Would come back to try the bento and the salmon in matcha broth!!

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4.7(512 reviews)

2.3 mi•Marina/Cow Hollow

Indonesian coffee, interesting combinations, dairy free...yes please! I stopped in because I was…read morehanging out with friends across the street and saw this place swarming with people. I had to see what all the buzz what about. I tried the Pandan Matcha and it was fantastic. With a display of pastries staring at us while we checked out, our group chose 1 lemon one to share and it was worth the afternoon treat. The menu is on the wall as you walk in. Place is small, hence the crowds outside. Love they are part of the bring your own cup program to reduce waste.

Crowded when we arrived but the line moved really fast. Kopi Klepon was delicious with a pretty…read morestrong (in a good way) coconut flavor. Pandan bolu was soft and springy. My partner's Pandan Matcha was much more subtle and it was harder to taste the matcha. I think the owner's very adorable puppy was here too!

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Q Specialty Coffee

4.2(275 reviews)

3.2 mi•Presidio Heights

Certified professionals

Locally owned & operated

I live for this Matcha. Plenty of street parking available…read morein the area. I've usually gone in the morning and the line isn't bad- moves quick. You have to use the QR code to see the breakdown of the menu. My favorite is the velvet matcha. It is so creamy and has the perfect sweetness. Honestly wish I had 100 of them. Staff is friendly and their gluten free brownie is pretty good. There are some tables but they are pretty small and the place gets busy. There is not a great place to wait for drinks, so sometimes I feel like I'm in the way. They are quick though, so that is not long. Can't wait to come back!

Ambiance: Q Specialty Coffee is a vibrantly bright coffee…read moreshop in Presidio Heights with lots of natural lighting and tables to complete work or just relax with family or friends before starting your day. The coffee bar is open with the ability to see baristas making drinks as ordered with also a display for pastries to pair with the drinks. Service: The baristas were extremely friendly and diligent on getting drinks swiftly made to order, while also being knowledgeable and helpful with questions on the menu. Wait time: Less than 10 minutes between ordering of food / drink and it being ready when going at 10am on a Sunday. Matcha: The Velvet matcha had a good matcha flavor without being overly sweet and a good balance between ice and actual drink. The matcha foam that goes on top is also not excessive while providing a more deep flavor profile that the actual drink lacks a little in. They do also have lids on a side table to allow for you to take your drink on the go with both a straw option and sip lid built into the same top. The matcha crepe cake was okay but did not really have a strong matcha taste to it and the crepes themselves were not very flavorful either. For Presidio Heights, Q Specialty Coffee is a solid tasting matcha with plenty of natural lighting and a great place to catch up with friends or colleagues while enjoying a beverage.

An IG photo nook 4/19/26

Velvet Matcha Cloud; Dubai Chocolate Mille Crepes

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Yuzu matcha air cream cloud

Delah Coffee

4.6(634 reviews)

0.4 mi•SoMa

Visited this cozy coffee shop . The vibe was calm and perfect for studying. I ordered a turkish…read morecoffe and a croissant-- the croissant was fresh. Staff were friendly, and service was quick. Prices were fine Overall, I'd rate it 5/5and would definitely come back! It feels like home

This might be one of my favorite dessert shops in the entire city. Each and every one of their milk…read morecakes are incredibly delicious; if you like the moist Tres leches/tiramisu type desserts-- these are a must-try. The coffee is incredible particularly if you like Middle Eastern style coffee drinks. In terms of ambiance- Every time I've gone, it has been busy. Every time. BUT!!! not so busy that I couldn't find a seat with an outlet nearby. It's just beautifully lively. It made it the perfect spot to sit and have dessert and coffee while working/studying/etc.

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Fresh croissant.

Loquat

4.4(317 reviews)

1.6 mi•Hayes Valley

Omg so good! Babka and bourekas are moist and flakey. You…read morecan't get this stuff at this quality elsewhere in the bay Friendly service The only thing I dislike is how far away they are from me! And though they are opening a new location it will be even farther. ( please send your baked goods to the East Bay?!)

Amazing gem of a cafe! So glad I finally tried this place…read more Kubaneh Platter (9.5/10) - they ran out of their Bourekas so this was recommended to us instead and wow it was so good! The sauce dips in this were incredibly rich and delicious - I wish I knew what was in it to make it myself! The buttery dough and pickled beets were also amazing. Chocolate tahini cookie (8/10) - loved that the sweetness was balanced with some salt Salted chocolate babka (7.5/10) - pretty good but not as good as other ones I've had in the city or in nyc. Wished it was more chocolately. The bread/chocolate in this one was a bit dry and not as moist as I would have liked. Might try it in a different flavor next time Definitely need to come back to try their Bourekas and other tea cakes!

Tea using fresh mint, served in an individual pot To the right are a case of savory bourekas (similar to empanadas.)

Chick Pea Taragon Bourekas $5.50

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Kubaneh Platter

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26 reviews that are not currently recommended

The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.

Lisa S.

Elite 23

30

100

362

2 years ago

Cafe Okawari in San Francisco offers a mixed bag of experiences, blending good food and amazing drinks with some notable downsides. The food at Cafe Okawari is quite good. The dishes are thoughtfully prepared and flavorful, showcasing a nice range of options that cater to different tastes. However, the portion sizes are on the smaller side, which might leave you feeling not as satisfied, especially considering the prices. The standout feature of Cafe Okawari is undoubtedly the drinks. They are nothing short of amazing. The creativity and execution are top-notch, making them a highlight of the visit. A special mention goes to the strawberry matcha latte - it's absolutely yummy and a must-try. One of the main drawbacks is the pricing. The food and drinks here are on the pricier side, which wouldn't be an issue if the portion sizes were more generous. Unfortunately, the combination of higher prices and smaller portions can make it feel less value for money. The cafe has a pleasant ambiance, providing a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It's a nice place to relax and enjoy a meal or a drink, with a charming decor that adds to the overall experience. Cafe Okawari delivers good food and exceptional drinks, but the smaller portions and higher prices can be a downside. The strawberry matcha latte is a standout and worth a visit on its own! read more

Kian N.

5

6

0

2 years ago

Hi endzele ndhawu leyi yo dyela yo saseka ya le Japani naswona hi ve ni ntokoto lowunene! Ku nga khathariseki vukulu bya yona, menyu ya kona ya fikeleleka naswona ya hambana-hambana, yi nyikela swakudya swa nyama ni matsavu leswi nandzihaka ni leswintshwa. Hi nyika swakunwa swo hlawuleka na ti smoothies eka maendzo yo hlawuleka. Moya a wu ntshunxekile hi ku hlawuriwa ka ku voninga leswi engeteleke eka ntokoto wo tsakisa wa xitori. Ntsengo wa kona wu ringanerile swinene, enkarhini lowu wu sukela eka R12 ku ya eka R1 000 hinkwayo, ndhawu yo saseka leyi se hi yi bumabumeleke! Kid Friendly: Laha hi laha u nga nghenelaka na vana. read more

Jeffrey R.

3

20

2

2 years ago

Before heading to the Blackpink concert, I decided to grab some lunch/dinner. A friend recommended this place, so I thought I'd give it a try. The restaurant is small, with limited seating inside and outside. It was quite crowded, but there wasn't a line to order, and the food arrived fairly quickly. As for the food, the chicken katsu sando was probably the juiciest and most flavorful one I've had in a while. Juices were literally dripping with each bite - it was phenomenal. Although the prices are a bit on the expensive side, I'd say it's worth it. I would definitely return to try out their other sandos! read more

Hadley H.

13

22

2

2 years ago

I've heard varying opinions about this place, but I'm delighted to say that it exceeded my expectations! I had the opportunity to savor their chicken katsu sandwich: a remarkably tender and juicy piece of chicken with a delightfully crispy and flavorful coating. The shredded cabbage was refreshingly light and not overly sauced, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Despite the substantial size of the katsu, it didn't feel heavy at all! The seating is somewhat limited, but there are a few outdoor spots available. The store is crowded and lively, but the food arrives promptly. read more

Claire W.

696

417

3206

2 years ago

Cafe Okawari is a solid spot--definitely a solid 4 stars in my book. The food is good, and I honestly have no major complaints. The chicken katsu sando? It's fine, but a little on the bland side for my taste. On the flip side, the chicken katsu curry is where it shines--delicious, hearty, and generous portions that leave you feeling satisfied. It's the kind of place that's great if you're already in the area, but I wouldn't go out of my way to make a special trip. Still, if you're craving a comforting Japanese meal, it's worth checking out! read more

Amanda F.

30

23

1

2 years ago

The café has a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, and the ambiance is quite soothing. The egg salad sandwich was absolutely delicious, and the katsu chicken sandwich was juicy and bursting with flavor. However, the katsu chicken plate could have used a bit more seasoning, as it was somewhat bland. On the bright side, the croquettes were perfectly fried, and the yuzu soda provided a refreshing touch. Despite the minor seasoning issue, I would certainly return to dine here again. read more

Kathrine H.

0

9

0

1 year ago

The food was so excellent! The best sandwich! Everything was made so good and it was so fresh. They have nice options and so pretty appetizing. The Chicken Katsu Sando was so delicious and one of my favorite. The filling was good and so smooth. The coffee was so refreshing and it taste really great. The curry rice was so tasty and very flavor. Amazing restaurant and has decent ambiance. No long wait and food were freshly served. read more

Daniel T.

0

5

1

1 year ago

I loved everything about this coffee shop! The taste of the coffee was delicious, the staff friendly, and they make their own lavender syrup which I had to try! They can do 2% milk which is also for some reason super hard to find in the city. There is a line ,but that just shows you how great this place is! Be sure to check out the logo as well which is just as creative as the decor! read more

James T.

3

7

0

3 years ago

Amazing duper place to eat! Cheeks are incredibly juicy and tender. The bread was very soft and the miso dressing on the salami was delicious! The sandwich was also very filling and was definitely filling afterwards. We also got the strawberry fruit sandwich which is great. I can't wait to go back to try the other menu items! read more

Mindy H.