0 Followers
Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar
8.2
Modern sushi bar offering bookable omakase experiences and a curated sake list in a polished setting. It brings a higher-end tasting format to Ninth Avenue with approachable service and precise nigiri.
Must-Try Dishes:
Premium Omakase (6 courses), Omakase Nigiri Experience, Seasonal Sashimi Platter
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Reservation-only omakase with premium cuts and a focused sake program.
Who should go: Omakase seekers and sake enthusiasts
When to visit: Prime seats book early—reserve a week ahead
What to order: Premium omakase, chef’s nigiri progression, seasonal sashimi
Insider tip: Ask staff for a sake pairing to match the omakase pacing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—metered spots on 9th Avenue fill quickly after 6pm, but nearby residential streets can open up after 8pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; elevated yet comfortable attire fits best for the omakase experience.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation-friendly at the counter, slightly livelier in small groups during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: Reservations required; walk-ins rarely seated without advance booking.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait for early seatings, though omakase must still be reserved.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—chef can prepare a few vegetable nigiri or rolls with advance notice.
Vegan options: Minimal options; not recommended for strict vegans as sauces and dashi may contain fish.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tamari available upon request; staff attentive to cross-contamination concerns.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its intimate counter, refined plating, and calm atmosphere make it ideal for a first date or special night out.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Rarely; omakase experiences are booked online in advance and walk-ins are typically turned away.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—best suited for adults or older teens comfortable with a structured tasting format.
Best For
Better for: Precision nigiri, premium sake pairings, and a polished omakase that’s more relaxed than downtown spots like Wako or Kusakabe.
Skip if: You prefer à la carte sushi or casual pricing; nearby KOO offers similar quality with a broader menu.
Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar
8.4
Contemporary sushi and sake bar emphasizing seasonal nigiri and clean, minimalist plating. Calm lighting and tight presentation deliver scroll-stopping photos without fuss.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s choice nigiri flight, A5 wagyu nigiri (limited), Chirashi bowl
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Refined plating and an extensive sake list in a serene room.
Who should go: Minimalist aesthetic sushi fans
When to visit: Weeknights 6–7pm for easier seating
What to order: Nigiri flight, seasonal sashimi, chirashi
Insider tip: Sit at the counter to follow the omakase pacing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—manageable before 6pm but tight after dinner rush. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Smart casual. Clean jeans or a simple dress work fine; most guests lean slightly dressy for date nights.
Noise level: Low to moderate—quiet enough for full conversation, especially at the sushi counter.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; book ahead for groups or prime hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait—usually walk-in friendly if open for lunch service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable rolls, inari, and sides are available and well-prepared.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 rolls and salads possible if you inform the chef in advance.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tamari available on request; staff can guide you on safe selections.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—intimate lighting, quiet tables, and elegant plating make it an ideal low-key romantic pick without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly early on weekdays, but weekend seats go fast. Counter spots may open for walk-ins around 8pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—no children’s menu or high chairs. Best suited for adults or older teens who enjoy sushi.
Best For
Better for: Refined plating and calm ambience that outperform busier Sunset sushi bars like Ebisu when you want a composed evening.
Skip if: You prefer loud group energy or fusion-style rolls—this space focuses on precision nigiri and subtle flavors.
Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar
8.6
Refined neighborhood sushi bar offering a focused nigiri lineup and a concise lunch window. Calm room, attentive pacing, and quality fish make it suitable for client catch-ups without downtown formality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s Omakase Nigiri, Toro Nigiri, A5 Wagyu Bite
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Precision nigiri with a dedicated lunch service window.
Who should go: Clients and partners who value quality
When to visit: Weekdays 12:00–1:00 for easiest seating
What to order: Omakase nigiri, toro, seasonal sashimi
Insider tip: Counter seats yield the best chef interaction and pacing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Irving can be tight at midday; metered spots available on side streets near 11th–12th Ave.
Dress code: Smart casual—neat work attire or collared shirts fit the room’s refined but relaxed feel.
Noise level: Low to moderate—conversation-friendly even at full lunch service.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; omakase counter often books out.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait if arriving before 12:15pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—avocado rolls and vegetable tempura available but not the focus.
Vegan options: Very limited—miso soup and cucumber roll are primary options.
Gluten-free options: Yes—sashimi and select nigiri prepared without soy; tamari available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—intimate but not intimidating, with attentive service and well-paced omakase ideal for quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually at lunch, yes—walk-ins are fine before 12:15pm, but dinner reservations are strongly advised for counter seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children—space is limited and menu skews traditional, but older teens who enjoy sushi will be comfortable.
Best For
Better for: Refined sushi and calm atmosphere without downtown pricing or crowds—excellent for professional lunches or understated date nights.
Skip if: You want rolls-heavy menus, large groups, or quick grab-and-go sushi; this spot focuses on traditional nigiri and relaxed pacing.
Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar
8.6
Intimate omakase-focused sushi bar with a serene, low-lit room and a tight sake list. Precision nigiri and seasonal touches make it a polished Inner Sunset date night without downtown formality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase nigiri progression, Red snapper with smoky mentaiko, A5 wagyu nigiri (limited)
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Quiet, omakase-driven experience with careful craft and pacing.
Who should go: Couples seeking refined, intimate sushi
When to visit: Prime evening slots; plan ahead for seats
What to order: Omakase nigiri, chef’s seasonal sashimi, A5 wagyu bite
Insider tip: Counter seats offer the best chef interaction and pacing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Irving and side streets; meter spots open up after 7pm but can be tight during dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual—dark jeans and a collared shirt or dress are ideal; avoid overly casual wear like hoodies or shorts.
Noise level: Low to moderate—quiet enough for close conversation with soft ambient music.
Weekend wait: Reservations essential; walk-ins rarely seated, potential 60+ minute wait without booking.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service—dinner only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—can request vegetable nigiri or omakase adaptations with advance notice.
Vegan options: Minimal—some vegetable or tofu components available, but not a full experience.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tamari available and many nigiri options are naturally gluten-free with chef awareness.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its calm, intimate bar setup and attentive service make it ideal for a first or second date where conversation and shared experience matter.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely—seating is limited to a few counter and bar spots; reservations via phone or website are strongly recommended several days ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? No—it's a serene omakase bar best suited for adults; no kids’ menu or booster seating.
Best For
Better for: Best for quiet, high-end sushi experiences in the Sunset; superior precision and pacing compared to casual neighborhood spots.
Skip if: If you prefer lively group dining or a-la-carte sushi rolls—opt for Sushi Bistro or Ebisu instead.
Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar
8.5
Modern, hushed room where cleanly built rolls meet a focused sake list. Expect tight rice work and polished plating on signatures alongside well-executed staples.
Must-Try Dishes:
Zentarou Special Roll, Salmon Avocado Roll, Negi Toro Maki
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Refined roll craft in a serene, design-forward setting.
Who should go: Couples and sake-curious sushi fans
When to visit: Late dinner after 8 pm for a calmer room
What to order: Zentarou Special; Rainbow Roll; Soft-Shell Crab Roll
Insider tip: Sit at the counter to request lighter rice on maki for balance.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; generally available within 2–3 blocks on Irving or side streets after 7 pm, but tight during peak hours. No valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans and clean sneakers are fine, but most guests lean polished with button-downs or blouses for date-night energy.
Noise level: Moderate—low background chatter and music; conversation-friendly even at full tables.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially between 6:30–8:30 pm.
Weekday lunch: No wait; easy walk-ins before 1:30 pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—avocado, cucumber, and vegetable rolls available, plus miso soup and salads.
Vegan options: Limited—about two roll options and side dishes qualify if you omit sauces.
Gluten-free options: Yes—tamari available on request, and several rolls can be made gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the intimate lighting, quiet tables, and graceful plating make it ideal for a first date where conversation and presentation both matter.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weeknights after 8 pm, but reservations are recommended Fridays and Saturdays to avoid long waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—best for adults or older teens; no children’s menu or high chairs.
Best For
Better for: Couples seeking a calm, refined roll experience with sake pairings and modern plating.
Skip if: You’re after casual sushi combos, takeout speed, or family dining—try Ebisu instead.
Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar
8.1
Compact sushi-and-sake bar with a chirashi-forward menu and efficient service. Clean, tidy cuts and a practical selection make it an easy Inner Sunset stop when you want quality without a long wait.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chirashi Don, Bluefin Nigiri, Salmon Belly Aburi
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Straightforward sushi with a sake focus and quick turns.
Who should go: Chirashi lovers on a schedule
When to visit: Weeknights 5–6pm for minimal wait
What to order: Chirashi bowl, bluefin nigiri, aburi salmon belly
Insider tip: Counter seats move fastest and offer best chef interaction.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; easiest before 6pm or a few blocks off Irving near 10th–11th Ave.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—neat jeans or button-down fine for evenings.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is easy at the counter, slightly louder in the small dining area during dinner rush.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without reservation; bar seats often turn faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually immediate seating except rainy days or holidays.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few solid choices like veggie rolls and tofu dishes, but not a full vegetarian menu.
Vegan options: Limited—seaweed salad, cucumber rolls, and a few sides only.
Gluten-free options: Yes—sashimi and certain rolls can be made gluten-free; ask for tamari instead of soy sauce.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you prefer a quiet, intimate setting without frills—counter seating lets conversation flow naturally.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, they accept walk-ins; early arrivals before 6:30pm have the best chance for immediate seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably—no kids’ menu, but families with older children are common during early dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for solo diners or couples who want efficient service, balanced pricing, and reliable chirashi quality without omakase formality.
Skip if: You’re seeking high-end omakase theatrics or large-group seating—Koo or Ebisu offer more elaborate experiences.
Zentarou Sushi and Sake Bar
8.1
Compact sushi-and-sake bar with a chirashi-forward menu and efficient service. A practical Inner Sunset choice when you want clean, tidy fish cuts without the wait.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chirashi Don, Bluefin Nigiri Set, Salmon Belly Aburi
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Straightforward, well-priced sushi with a sake focus.
Who should go: Chirashi lovers on a schedule
When to visit: Weeknights 5–6pm for minimal wait
What to order: Chirashi don, bluefin nigiri, salmon belly aburi
Insider tip: Counter seats move fastest and offer the best chef interaction.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only—can be tight after 6pm, but side streets around Irving and 10th often open up after dinner rush.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—neat jeans or a button-down work fine; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—steady conversation hum but quiet enough to talk comfortably at the counter.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes for walk-ins, longer during peak sushi hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; immediate seating at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but possible—avocado rolls, cucumber maki, and veggie tempura available.
Vegan options: Minimal—few options beyond simple veggie rolls; ask staff to customize.
Gluten-free options: Yes—can accommodate with tamari and select nigiri; avoid tempura or soy-based sauces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for a low-key sushi date. The counter setup encourages easy conversation without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially on weekdays. Walk-ins are common, though small parties may wait briefly during dinner rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—children who enjoy sushi or rice bowls will be fine, but the space is compact with limited stroller room.
Best For
Better for: Quick, clean, no-frills sushi when you want solid cuts without omakase formality or a long wait.
Skip if: You’re seeking high-end omakase or creative rolls—try Koo or Ebisu instead for those experiences.