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Sushi Zanmai
Master Critic Review
Sushi Zanmai
7.8
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
The first US outpost of Japan's popular sushi chain brings the Tuna King's signature bluefin focus to Chapman Plaza with tablet ordering and a life-sized founder statue greeting guests. Quality tuna cuts shine across multiple preparations while other menu items remain serviceable in this casual, late-night-friendly format.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tuna Zanmai Sampler, Yukhoe Tuna Crispy Rice, Fatty Tuna Nigiri
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: First US location from Japan's 'Tuna King' Kiyoshi Kimura with specialized tuna focus and digital ordering
Who should go: Tuna enthusiasts and late-night diners seeking solid quality at fair prices
When to visit: Late night hours until midnight, lunch for best value specials
What to order: Tuna Zanmai sampler, toro variations, spicy tuna crispy rice
Insider tip: Stick to tuna items for best experience—the specialty cuts justify the visit
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot parking at Chapman Plaza, usually available except prime weekend dinner hours
Dress code: Casual - jeans and sneakers perfectly fine, late-night crowd ranges from dressed up to gym clothes
Noise level: Moderate to lively - conversational but energetic atmosphere, better for casual dates than intimate conversations
Weekend wait: 15-30 min typical, peaks around 9-11pm when late-night crowd arrives
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, usually seated within 5-10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - cucumber rolls, avocado rolls, vegetable tempura, inari sushi available
Vegan options: Very limited - basic vegetable rolls only, most items contain fish sauce or mayo
Gluten-free options: Possible but requires careful ordering - request tamari instead of soy sauce, skip tempura and crispy items
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for second or third date when you're past the 'impress' stage - the tablet ordering and casual vibe are fun but not romantic. The tuna focus gives you something interesting to discuss though.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially before 7pm or after 10pm. They don't take reservations for parties under 6, so it's walk-in only anyway. Weekday lunches are your safest bet for immediate seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly - tablet ordering keeps them entertained, casual atmosphere means no stress about noise, and there are cooked options beyond raw fish. Good for ages 5+ who can handle chopsticks or don't mind hands.
How does the tablet ordering work? Each table has a tablet - browse photos, tap what you want, items arrive in waves. You can keep ordering throughout your meal. It's intuitive but means less server interaction if you need recommendations.
Is this authentic Japanese sushi? It's authentic to the kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt) style popular in Japan - accessible, fun, decent quality at fair prices. Not traditional Edomae sushi, but legitimately represents Japan's casual sushi culture.
Best For
Better for: Late-night sushi cravings (open until midnight), tuna lovers wanting variety (multiple cuts and preparations), groups who want tech-driven ordering, Instagram content with the Tuna King statue
Skip if: You want omakase-style chef interaction, need extensive non-tuna options, prefer traditional intimate sushi counter experience, or want cutting-edge creative rolls - stick to their tuna strengths