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Sushi Zen
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
Sushi Zen
7.8
Cozy Taraval counter spot known for generous party trays and a wide roll lineup. It’s a comfortable choice for a casual sushi date with friendly service and dependable staples.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sunset Strip Roll, Super Dynamite Roll, Hamachi Kama
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Neighborhood sushi with big-tray options and friendly, efficient pacing.
Who should go: Casual dates wanting classic rolls and nigiri
When to visit: Early evenings 5–6:30pm before the dinner rush
What to order: Sunset Strip roll; super dynamite; hamachi kama
Insider tip: Consider a small party tray to share—value is strong for two.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval and nearby side streets is usually available, though it can fill quickly around dinner hours. No dedicated lot or valet service.
Dress code: Smart casual. Most diners wear jeans and nice tops; a step up from takeout attire fits the cozy date-night vibe.
Noise level: Moderate — soft background chatter and kitchen sounds but you can comfortably hold a conversation across the table.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes without a reservation, especially between 6:30–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins are seated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several veggie rolls, tofu dishes, and cucumber-avocado options available.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 simple rolls and edamame; no vegan sauces.
Gluten-free options: Yes — request tamari instead of soy sauce; sushi rice is safe but tempura and sauces are not.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s low-pressure and cozy, ideal for casual conversation without the scene of larger sushi bars. The staff is friendly and timing relaxed.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for smaller parties before 6:30pm or after 8pm. Call ahead on weekends to confirm availability for two.
Is it kid-friendly? Accepts families but better suited to adults or older kids. The compact layout and limited booster seating make it less ideal for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Relaxed sushi dates and casual nigiri nights where service feels personal and pricing fair.
Skip if: You’re seeking omakase, elaborate presentation, or high-end ambiance — this is more about comfort and consistency than fine dining.
Sushi Zen
7.9
Neighborhood sushi bar on Taraval known for reliable nigiri sets, generous sashimi combos, and fast, friendly service. Locals lean on it for weeknight takeout trays and no-fuss dine-in.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nigiri Deluxe set, Sashimi Combination, Spicy Scallop Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Straightforward sushi with generous portions and quick service.
Who should go: Weeknight nigiri and platter seekers
When to visit: Early dinner to avoid peak takeout rush
What to order: Nigiri deluxe, sashimi combo, spicy scallop roll
Insider tip: Party trays travel well for group movie nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Taraval and side streets; usually available within a block before 6pm but can fill during dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual; locals come in jeans and sweaters, no need to dress up.
Noise level: Low to moderate — comfortable for conversation even during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes at peak if you walk in after 6:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Rarely a wait; seats available immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — avocado rolls, cucumber rolls, vegetable tempura, and tofu appetizers available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few rolls and sides, but sauces may contain fish-based ingredients.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — can request gluten-free soy sauce; avoid tempura and imitation crab.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a casual or low-key first date; comfortable atmosphere but not romantic or private.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — reservations are rarely needed; walk-ins are the norm except on Friday nights.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — relaxed service, quick turnaround, and plenty of cooked rolls make it easy for families with kids.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable sushi dinners with consistent quality and friendly service.
Skip if: You’re seeking premium omakase or a high-end date-night setting.
Sushi Zen
8.1
Neighborhood sushi bar known for reliable nigiri sets, generous sashimi combos, and fast, friendly service. A practical pick for weeknight takeout trays and no-fuss dine-in on Taraval.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nigiri deluxe, Sashimi combo, Spicy scallop roll
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: Straightforward sushi with generous portions and quick service.
Who should go: Weeknight nigiri and platter seekers
When to visit: Early dinner to avoid peak takeout rush
What to order: Nigiri deluxe; sashimi combo; spicy scallop roll
Insider tip: Party trays travel well for group movie nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval is metered near peak hours but generally available within a block or two on weeknights.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—locals often drop in after work or errands; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—quiet enough for conversation but with steady background chatter during dinner rush.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes depending on takeout traffic; walk-ins usually accommodated quickly.
Weekday lunch: Rarely a wait; counter seats almost always open.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plenty of rolls and veggie sides like cucumber, avocado, and inari sushi.
Vegan options: Limited—some vegetable rolls qualify, but sauces and rice seasoning may include fish stock.
Gluten-free options: Partially—sashimi and plain rolls are safe if you bring or request gluten-free soy sauce.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual, low-pressure dates. The setting is cozy but informal, ideal for sushi fans who want conversation without pretension.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t required. Walk-ins are the norm, though small groups may wait briefly during peak dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—welcomes families with children. Service is quick, and menu options like teriyaki or udon work well for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Quick, consistent sushi and friendly service at neighborhood pricing.
Skip if: You’re seeking high-end omakase or an atmospheric dining experience—go to Yoji Sushi House or Ebisu instead.
Sushi Zen
8.2
Neighborhood sushi bar on Taraval known for reliable maki and friendly pacing. Rolls lean classic with a few house creations that locals order on repeat.
Must-Try Dishes:
British Columbia Roll, Sunset Strip Roll, Wasabi Hama Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Classic roll lineup with a few neighborhood-favorite house specials.
Who should go: Roll traditionalists and casual sushi regulars
When to visit: Early evening for shortest wait and best pacing
What to order: British Columbia, Sunset Strip, Wasabi Hama
Insider tip: Ask for extra ginger and wasabi on the side—the kitchen is generous.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Taraval and 22nd Avenue; spaces open up after 7pm but can be tight during dinner rush.
Dress code: Casual; locals come in jeans and sweaters, though neat casual works best for dinner.
Noise level: Moderate - lively but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk-ins welcome.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple veggie rolls and appetizers available.
Vegan options: Limited - about 2–3 maki options can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Partially - gluten-free soy sauce available upon request, but rolls are not prepped in a dedicated area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes – it’s quiet enough to talk, has friendly service, and feels casual but intentional. A comfortable pick for low-pressure sushi dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for small groups; call ahead for parties over four or weekend evenings.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – staff are patient with families, and there’s a small kids’ roll and udon option; best for ages 5+.
Best For
Better for: Dependable sushi rolls at fair prices without downtown fuss; great for neighborhood takeout or quick sit-down meals.
Skip if: You’re after omakase or high-end nigiri experiences—go elsewhere for chef’s counter artistry.
Sushi Zen
8.4
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Family-owned sushi bar (since 2007) known for reliable lunch bentos, nigiri, and friendly, efficient service. A straightforward room and steady pace make it easy for a quick, professional midday meal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lunch Bento (teriyaki + tempura), Chirashi Bowl, Spicy Hotate Nigiri
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Consistent lunch bentos and classic nigiri with fast, friendly service.
Who should go: Professionals needing efficient, reliable sushi lunch
When to visit: Weekdays 11:30–1:30 to beat peak
What to order: Lunch bento, chirashi, salmon nigiri
Insider tip: Call ahead for bento timing to minimize wait.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is generally available on Taraval Street and nearby residential blocks, though it can fill up around lunchtime. No private lot or valet service.
Dress code: Casual—come as you are from the office or neighborhood. Business casual works fine if coming from meetings.
Noise level: Low to moderate—easy to hold a work conversation or take a call without shouting.
Weekend wait: Closed or limited hours—mainly a lunch spot.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before noon; 5–10 minutes during peak 12–1pm rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple veggie rolls, tofu dishes, and tempura available.
Vegan options: Limited—some avocado or cucumber rolls possible, but sauces may contain fish base.
Gluten-free options: Partial—can request gluten-free soy sauce; tempura and teriyaki items contain wheat.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual or working lunches than romantic dates—efficient, friendly, and low-pressure but not particularly atmospheric.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t needed. Walk-ins are fine, though calling ahead for takeout or bentos saves time.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—staff are accommodating with families, high chairs are available, and the menu includes mild rolls and teriyaki plates for kids.
Best For
Better for: Fast, affordable sushi lunches and reliable service without pretense—ideal for weekday professionals or locals on break.
Skip if: You’re looking for omakase, premium fish variety, or an upscale dining experience—try more specialized sushi bars for that.
Sushi Zen
8.3
Neighborhood sushi bar known for photogenic chirashi bowls, deluxe nigiri sets, and generous party platters. Locals use it for casual date nights and shareable sushi spreads without crossing town.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chirashi Sushi, Nigiri Deluxe, 30-Piece Sashimi Set
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Colorful chirashi and sashimi spreads that photograph beautifully.
Who should go: Sushi fans wanting pretty, shareable platters
When to visit: Weeknights 6–7pm for easiest seating
What to order: Chirashi, Nigiri Deluxe, assorted sashimi set
Insider tip: Ask for counter seats for fastest service and best plating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval and 19th Ave is usually available before 6pm but fills up fast; nearby residential blocks offer easier options within two to three minutes’ walk.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans and a nice top are fine, though many date-night diners lean semi-dressy.
Noise level: Moderate — lively background chatter but still easy to hold a conversation at the bar or two-top tables.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially between 6:30–8:00pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; plenty of open tables before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — avocado rolls, vegetable tempura, cucumber maki, and tofu salad are regular items.
Vegan options: Limited — a few veggie rolls and seaweed salad available; confirm dressing ingredients.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free soy sauce available on request and most sashimi/nigiri plates are safe with slight modifications.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — dim lighting, artistic plating, and friendly service make it ideal for a relaxed but polished first-date dinner.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes on weekdays before 7pm, but reservations are strongly recommended on weekends or larger groups to avoid waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids comfortable with sushi; the staff offers simpler rolls and edamame, though space is limited for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Presentation and plating — the colorful chirashi and deluxe sets look far more elevated than typical neighborhood sushi bars.
Skip if: You’re seeking omakase-level precision or ultra-traditional preparation — this spot leans casual and visually playful rather than purist.