San Francisco 🍣 An Omakase with Its Own Rising Identity

In the Bay Area, new omakase spots keep popping up like spring bamboo shoots. 😍In that landscape, the once-Michelin-starred Sushi Shin now feels like an elder statesman. I remember trying their takeout during the pandemic, then watching them earn — and later lose — their star. Online opinion has swung from fiery recommendations to harsh criticism. My own early impressions were mixed. It was close to home, so I visited a few times for lunch. The fish was always generous — noticeably larger than most — but the style felt safe, traditional. At a certain price point, I’d think, Why not just spend a bit more for Yoshizumi?😀 But my latest visit completely changed my mind. Now it’s a place I’d recommend — and return to with friends.✨ Chef seems to have broken past old constraints, weaving in subtle Chinese influences while diving deeper into each ingredient, not just chasing fusion. 🌶️ Mapo Tofu with Shirako Some have tried this concept, but often it’s just mapo tofu with shirako swapped in. Here, they refined it — the sauce lightly coats the shirako, keeping it elegant. While it slightly mutes the shirako’s delicate ocean sweetness, it’s a delicious, creative take for those familiar with it. Newcomers should still try traditional shirako first to experience that umami burst. 🐟 Shanghai-Smelted Sanma Small sanma prepared Shanghainese smoked-fish style — fragrant, reminiscent of ichiyaboshi ayu, and deeply satisfying. 🍲 Ankō Shabu Shabu Whole monkfish, perfectly cooked — no part wasted. 🦀 Kōbako Crab (Snow Crab with Roe) Available only until December! Made into stir-fried crab roe — a bit salty but fantastic over rice. 🥚 Chawanmushi Loaded with crab meat (recently changed to softshell turtle — nourishing and unique). 🍣 Nigiri While not groundbreaking, the sushi now shows real refinement — beautifully formed, with delicate airy rice. Chef’s skills have clearly grown. ☀️ We went for lunch — comfortable, well-priced, and flexible with add-ons. Friends say dinner’s lobster is also outstanding. #SushiShin #OmakaseSF #BayAreaOmakase #SushiLovers #JapaneseCuisine #MichelinInspired #EdomaeSushi #InnovativeSushi #FoodEvolution #BayAreaEats