Chome

This Mission izakaya has developed a cult following over the past couple years for their dedication to eccentricity. Now in a bigger location on 26th St., they’re the quirky little sister of the SF izakayas with their long and winding menu full of eye-catching combinations like an NYC Big Mac nigiri of wagyu and otoro, or a duck duck udon carbonara with crispy bacon. Unfortunately, some of the dishes leave us scratching our heads a bit, and the whole experience can easily leave a gaping hole in your wallet. 

Still, it's worth playing a game of dinner roulette at Chome because of the occasional knockout dish like the tangy kabocha, the rich Chu-Toro Sizzler, and the chewy O.Ko.No.Mi.Yaki all in a fun atmosphere. And because of that, Chome manages to carve out a niche in the SF izakaya scene. 

photo credit: Ricky Rodriguez

They're open till 11 most nights, and while it’s currently BYOB, the drinks from the old spot are expected to make it over eventually. The interior is simple (they’re in the process of updating), but it feels lively thanks to the often-packed dining room. They do the whole drinking and snacking thing kinda well—as long as you’re willing to ignore your rapidly increasing check for each small plate (the O.Ko.No.Mi.Yak is $26), plus the occasional creative missteps. Some name-catching dishes, like the Big Mac nigiri ($20 apiece), feel like nothing more than a gimmick, and others, like the oxtail omurice, leave you feeling a bit confused about their flavor combination. So yes, stop by to get a plate or two, and just enjoy the novelty of the whole experience.

Food Rundown

photo credit: Ricky Rodriguez

Salted Egg Kabocha

These lightly pan-fried pumpkin nuggets are a must-get. Think less nugget and more chunks of Japanese pumpkin that are coated in a tangy, rich, salty egg yolk sauce.

photo credit: Ricky Rodriguez

Chu-Toro Sizzler

Dinner and a show? The Chu-Toro Sizzler is just that. You’ll get five pieces of fatty bluefin tuna with crispy rice and scallion served on a sizzling cast iron plate with a bit of smoke drizzle, fajita-style. Get it.

photo credit: Ricky Rodriguez

Tipsy Oysters

Topped with uni, ikura, caviar, yuzu salsa, ponzu, and tabasco, these oysters are loaded-up (and expensive) bites that are fun nonetheless.

Duck Duck Udon Carbonara

Regrettably forgettable. Surprisingly the duck flavor doesn’t come through that well and you’re left with a shrug-worthy bowl of noodles.

photo credit: Ricky Rodriguez

A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Skewers

At $55 for two skewers, this is just a waste of money. We could justify it if they’re piping hot and full of flavor, but they’re not. Skip it and get some of the other skewers.

photo credit: Ricky Rodriguez

Fried Durian

You might be expecting durian ice cream, but no, this is actually a chunk of deep fried durian that’s served on top of vanilla ice cream, ube paste, fresh fruit, and whipped cream. The intense durian flavor is mellowed a tad by all the other ingredients, but its strong flavor makes this one just for pre-existing durian lovers.