On The Bridge in San Francisco: photos, reviews

About

On The Bridge in San Francisco's Japantown is where casual meets trendy, offering an inviting spot for everyone, especially those on solo ventures. This yoshoku-style restaurant, recognized as a San Francisco Legacy Business, has delighted diners since 1992 with its Japanese-European fusion dishes. Enjoy lunch or dinner without breaking the bank. Signature plates like Chicken Rice Gratin and Chicken Katsu Curry with a sunny-side-up egg will satisfy hearty appetites, while rich curries and pastas cater to those seeking variety. Vegetarians aren't left out, with plenty of options to choose from. To accompany your meal, explore their extensive selection of sake and beers, or opt for a crafted cocktail, glass of wine, or fresh coffee. Quick service makes dining in a breeze, while delivery and takeaway options ensure you can enjoy these flavors wherever you are. Whether you're grabbing a bite solo or with friends, On The Bridge promises a fashionable yet cozy dining experience.

Price

$$$$ 20 - 30 $

Meals

Lunch, Dinner

Cuisines

Japanese

Services

Delivery, Takeaway, Dine-in

Dietary options

Vegetarian options

Offering

Serving alcohol, Small plates, Serving cocktails, Serving beer, Serving wine, Serving coffee

4.1

based on 633 reviews

Google

4.1/5 633 reviews

Eric Tsujimoto

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

Disneyland attracts millions and millions by claiming to be “The Happiest Place on Earth”, but Walt Disney was never fortunate enough to visit On the Bridge. OTB is my favorite restaurant in the world, and I found myself always thinking about them . . . just like being in love. Their menu reflects creativity and a willingness to enlighten customers about what Japanese food can be. Their yoshoku style food will transform your life, and you will become an official ambassador for their restaurant. Chef Nakumura said that they were the first Yōshoku-style restaurant in San Francisco. You will not see Chicken Teriyaki or Tempura on the menu. Luckily, I had an opportunity to speak with Yolanda who is a co-owner of On the Bridge in San Francisco’s historic Japantown. She said that the food they serve is what people in Japan eat while sushi is for businessmen. (Gotta keep it real, ya’ll). She is also a very proud mom of three cats. My three entrées were so memorable that my socks rolled up and down plus my mind was blown all the way to the surfers at Ocean Beach. The three oishii (delicious) meals were: Chicken Rice Gratin: Super flavorful, tender, and juicy chicken with at least two kinds of melted cheese, onions, over a specially flavored Japanese rice. This stayed hot for 20+ minutes which is ethereal. Chicken Katsu Curry Over Rice with a Sunny Side Up Egg: Yolanda and a KQED Food Japan Town video on YouTube confirm that making the curry takes 3 to 4 days. The chicken was the lightest katsu I have ever had and was equally as tender. Unagi: Broiled eel was so buttery and almost the size of a brick sliced in half lengthwise. Their restaurant is located a stone’s throw from Kinokunya Bookstore on the 2nd floor West. On the Bridge has been designated as a San Francisco Legacy Business for being in business for more than 30 years (opened in 1992) and contributing to the neighborhood’s history like Yasukochi’s Sweet Stop (Coffee Crunch Cake), Cinderella Bakery & Cafe, Tadich Grill, and House of Prime Rib which adds to their rich history. The icing on the cake, which was definitely a sign for me to go, was that my favorite movie Kiki’s Delivery Service was on. What a truly perfect day!!!

Shine

Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5

One of those places that feel like a mini rest stop, a sweet escape. Food is flavored and salted just to my liking, and service is kind.

Laura Löwy

Food: 4
Service: 4
Atmosphere: 3

the curry ramen with tofu was good and the portion was generous. having My Neighbor Totoro playing on the tv added a nice touch, though overall the place just wasn’t quite my vibe.

What is the address of On The Bridge?
On The Bridge is located at 1581 Webster St #206, 94115, San Francisco, Japantown, USA.
How to get here by public transport?
The nearest public transport options provide quick and easy access:
- Bus stop Geary Blvd & Webster St (45 m walk)
- Bus stop Geary Blvd & Fillmore St (103 m walk)
- Bus stop Sutter St & Fillmore St (171 m walk)
- Bus stop Fillmore St & Geary Blvd (156 m walk)
How is On The Bridge rated by visitors?
On The Bridge has an average rating of 4.1 based on 633 reviews across platforms such as Google.
What is the average price for a meal at On The Bridge?
The average price for a meal is 20 - 30 $ (it is cheap - $).
Does the venue offer vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, vegetarian or vegan dishes are available on the menu.

On The Bridge in San Francisco