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Zushi Puzzle
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Zushi Puzzle
8.6
Chef Roger Chong’s Marina institution plates pristine nigiri and specialty cuts with artful, photo-ready presentation. It’s a reservations-driven sushi bar where omakase and day-by-day specials are the move for serious fish lovers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase nigiri flight, Uni & ikura 'uni special', Toro sashimi
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Chef-led omakase with meticulous plating and premium cuts.
Who should go: Sushi purists and omakase seekers
When to visit: Weeknights at the bar for chef interaction
What to order: Omakase, toro sashimi, uni with ikura
Insider tip: Ask for bar seats to access off-menu specials first.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Lombard and nearby side streets can be tight after 6pm; best to arrive early or use a rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual — elevated but relaxed; jeans are fine if paired with a nice shirt or jacket.
Noise level: Low to moderate — conversation-friendly at the sushi bar, slightly livelier in the main room.
Weekend wait: Reservations are essential; walk-ins can face waits of 45–90 minutes or may be turned away.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, but omakase seats fill by mid-afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited — a few vegetable rolls and tofu dishes available upon request.
Vegan options: Very limited — can accommodate with cucumber or avocado rolls but no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Yes — soy sauce alternatives available; mention gluten-free needs when ordering for careful prep.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the intimate sushi bar setup and elegant plating make it ideal for an impressive, low-noise first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on early weekdays, but unlikely on weekends; call ahead to check for last-minute cancellations.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly — best suited for adults due to limited space, delicate menu, and quiet dining atmosphere.
Best For
Better for: High-end omakase and premium sashimi experiences with photo-worthy presentation in an intimate setting.
Skip if: You prefer casual sushi rolls, loud group energy, or lower price points — try Tataki or Saru Sushi instead.
Zushi Puzzle
8.4
Intimate sushi bar known for pristine fish selection and chef-driven specials. Expect seasonal cuts beyond the usual suspects and classic nigiri over flashy sauces.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase selection, Seasonal uni, Kohada nigiri
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Classic, fish-first sushi with seasonal rarities at the counter.
Who should go: Nigiri traditionalists and sashimi lovers
When to visit: Later evenings after 8pm for relaxed service
What to order: Omakase, uni, kohada nigiri
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu imports before ordering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Lombard and adjacent residential streets; spaces fill quickly after 6pm—arrive early or use rideshare.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but pair with a button-down or nice top—avoid overly casual wear like gym clothes.
Noise level: Low to moderate; soft background chatter allows for easy conversation across the sushi bar or small tables.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without reservation, especially for counter seating.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service—dinner only, with easier walk-ins Tuesday through Thursday before 7pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some vegetable rolls and tofu dishes are available on request.
Vegan options: Minimal options beyond cucumber or avocado rolls; best to call ahead if strictly vegan.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free soy sauce available upon request, and most nigiri can be prepared without cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—intimate counter seating and calm energy make it an excellent choice for a first or second date where conversation and quality food take center stage.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on weeknights before 7pm, but counter seats are limited; reservations are strongly recommended for weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—quiet, compact setting with limited menu flexibility; better suited for adults or teens with adventurous palates.
Best For
Better for: Purists seeking expertly sliced nigiri and authentic omakase without flash or gimmicks.
Skip if: You’re looking for trendy rolls, loud group energy, or late-night dining—consider Ace Wasabi or Mamanoko instead.
Zushi Puzzle
8.4
Intimate sushi bar known for pristine fish selection and chef-driven specials. Expect seasonal cuts beyond the usual suspects and a focus on classic nigiri over flashy sauces.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase nigiri set, Live uni when available, Kohada (gizzard shad) nigiri
Scores:
Value: 7.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Classic, fish-first sushi with seasonal rarities at the counter.
Who should go: Nigiri traditionalists and sashimi lovers
When to visit: Later evenings after 8pm for calmer pacing
What to order: Omakase, seasonal uni, kohada nigiri
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu seasonal imports before you order.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking—tight after 6pm; nearby garages on Union or Lombard can help.
Dress code: Smart casual; neat jeans and button-down or blouse fit the tone.
Noise level: Low to moderate—soft chatter from the small dining room, ideal for conversation.
Weekend wait: 45–60 minutes without a reservation; bar seats go first.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though omakase prep can add time.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable rolls and tamago available upon request.
Vegan options: Limited—some veggie rolls and seaweed salad only.
Gluten-free options: Yes—soy sauce substitution available; inform chef when seated.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—intimate counter seating and calm atmosphere make it ideal for quiet connection, especially if your date enjoys refined sushi experiences.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on early weekdays, but reservations are essential on weekends due to the small space.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—best suited for adults or older teens given the quiet vibe and omakase format.
Best For
Better for: Purists who value fish quality and traditional technique over trendy rolls or fusion sauces.
Skip if: You prefer lively group dining, flashy rolls, or loud social energy—opt for a busier sushi spot instead.