My review is basically price-based. If this were 1/2 to 1/3 the price, it might be OK. I am not a price-sensitive eater, but I am sensitive about the quality/value ratio and I put food quality far above either service or ambience. But above a certain price all of these cylinders have to start firing. In my opinion, Shabu completely... more

Despite the promising pedigree of the chef (who had apparently worked at a Nobu in some capacity), the food was extraordinarily mediocre. That's not to say that I consider Nobu the pinnacle of Japanese/modern Japanese cuisine but it always delivers a reliable high-quality product. In any case, I know Nobu and Shabu is certainly no Nobu. My sushi rolls were... more

My husband and I had a great meal here - on the balcony, in June, 2007. Our service was excellent as was the food. My husband had the shabu shabu which exceeded his expectations - lots of fish, chicken, shrimp and vegetables. I had Beef Wellington and it was perfectly done. I hope you give this great place your business! more

Pleasant dining experience. We were able to secure a table on Friday night without a reservation. The ambience was very nice with dark burgandy and black paneling, open style ceiling with a hanging bamboo latice contrasting with the black painted ceiling. We enjoyed the carpaccio and truly suprised by the cocunut crusted tofu. Not a huge fan of tofu but... more

Shabu is on the second floor of the main street mall. The food is great. no one thought the restaurant could make it at this location, but the food is great, Check it out. more

Note: these comments come from the perspective of one who has dined in San Francisco's best restaurants for years and has high expectations. Many people would not be as critical... First, and most importantly, our food was excellent and came out in a timely manner. We had the Samurai Shisu appetizer, the Sea Bass and the Scallops. The appetizer was... more

Good food, but service was insultingly bad. Our family of four had an early reservation (5:30)and were the second group to be seated. For whatever reason, the four of us were seated at a table sized for two. My wife and I ordered the eponymous Shabu-Shabu while the kids ordered steak and fish. What we were not told at the... more

Good food, went around 6:30 alot of families. Had the spicy tuna roll, dumplings, Scallop roll and chicken terriaki everything was very good and service was attentive. more

Shabu prepares "freestyle Asian cuisine" like no one else. The term "Shabu" refers to a fondu-like meal in which foods are cooked in flavored broths on skewers -normally served family style. Shabu takes this food to another level by providing many different flavors of broths, and great meats and veggies to cook in the pots. The sushi is amazingly fresh,... more