The eclectic, vibrant Mission's newest culinary star is this small-plate restaurant that offers a refined Japanese sensibility. Nick Balla, who earned praise at O Izakaya Lounge, teamed up with Gil Payne, a sake fanatic, and Mari Takahashi, who owned Sozai restaurant, to open this modest restaurant that looks like a cross between a diner and a taqueria. But don't let the downscale decor fool you -- Balla's food has a seasonal, bold sensibility. He uses fresh wasabi, makes his own pickles and serves some of the best sashimi around. Nombe means "a drunk guy in the street," and after a few plates and glasses of sake you'll be light-headed with appreciation.
Specialties: Roasted beets with fresh grated wasabi; grilled skewers including thigh, hearts and skin; steamed rice with wild nori; fried chicken livers; chicken wings with honey and serrano; sashimi; warm kabocha mochi cake.
Open 6-11 p.m. Sunday-Monday and Wednesday-Thursday, until 2 a.m. Friday-Saturday.
From four-star spots to cozy neighborhood joints, these are Michael Bauer's picks for the best in Bay Area dining.