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Kaizen: Omakase & Hand Roll Sushi Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
Kaizen: Omakase & Hand Roll Sushi Restaurant
8.8
Kaizen is a modern omakase and hand-roll bar tucked just off Farrington Street, known for tightly curated nigiri flights and made-to-order temaki. Guests come for pristine fish, a long counter, and a vibe that feels closer to a sleek city bar than a traditional Flushing storefront.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro hand roll, Salmon ikura hand roll, Chef’s omakase nigiri set
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A focused omakase and hand-roll counter where seasonal cuts and temaki are the star.
Who should go: Sushi fans who prioritize fish quality over volume
When to visit: Prime-time dinner seatings with a reservation
What to order: Omakase nigiri set, toro hand roll, salmon ikura hand roll
Insider tip: Sit at the counter so the chef can pace a personalized omakase flight.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Farrington and adjacent blocks is limited during peak dinner hours; meters run late. Nearby garages on Roosevelt Avenue usually have openings after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished; denim is fine, but most guests dress slightly elevated for counter dining.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzy but controlled. Easy to hold a date-night conversation, especially at the counter.
Weekend wait: 25–45 minutes for counter spots without a reservation; tables can be longer depending on party size.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, though the counter may fill during early afternoon omakase seatings.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable—vegetable hand rolls, tamago, and a few seasonal sides.
Vegan options: Very limited—seaweed salads or vegetable rolls only; omakase is not vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Manageable with communication; many nigiri pieces are naturally gluten-free, but request gluten-free soy and avoid sauced items.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its sleek counter setup, attentive pacing, and modern vibe make it intimate without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes; walk-ins are seated based on counter turnover. Arrive early or close to opening to maximize chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—compact seating, omakase pacing, and a quieter, adult-oriented vibe make it better suited for teens and older.
Best For
Better for: High-quality nigiri and hand rolls in a stylish, modern setting without the price commitment of premium omakase rooms.
Skip if: You want extensive cooked dishes, large combo platters, or a more traditional, family-style sushi experience.
Kaizen: Omakase & Hand Roll Sushi Restaurant
8.8
Kaizen is an omakase and hand-roll bar inside the Four Points by Sheraton where tightly curated nigiri flights share the counter with made-to-order temaki. The space feels closer to a sleek cocktail bar than a traditional sushi joint, drawing guests for date nights and small-group celebrations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase nigiri progression, Toro and ikura hand rolls, Signature Kaizen toast or small plates
Scores:
Value: 6.9
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Counter-focused omakase and hand rolls with a bar-like, modern feel.
Who should go: Sushi fans prioritizing pristine fish and cocktails
When to visit: Evening omakase seatings with a reservation secured
What to order: Omakase set, toro hand rolls, seasonal small plates
Insider tip: Sit at the counter for direct interaction with the chefs during omakase.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Hotel garage parking is available at Four Points by Sheraton for a fee; limited street parking on surrounding blocks becomes competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; elevated outfits fit the sleek bar-like counter, though polished jeans are acceptable.
Noise level: Moderate; conversation is comfortable at the counter, though peak seatings bring a lively buzz.
Weekend wait: Expect no walk-in availability; omakase seatings typically fill days in advance.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; service is primarily dinner-focused with structured seatings.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited; a few vegetable-forward rolls or bites may be available, but the omakase is fish-centric.
Vegan options: Very limited; this is not an ideal choice for strict vegan diners.
Gluten-free options: Moderate accommodation; chefs can adjust certain items and avoid soy sauces with gluten upon request, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The counter setup, dim lighting, and curated courses create a guided experience that reduces menu stress and supports easy conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely. Omakase seatings are planned and controlled; walk-ins are generally not accepted unless there's a rare last-minute cancellation.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; the structured omakase, limited space, and upscale ambiance are better suited to adults or older teens who enjoy sushi.
Best For
Better for: Pristine fish, polished hand rolls, and a sleek, bar-forward atmosphere ideal for date nights or small groups wanting a refined but energetic omakase.
Skip if: You want extensive cooked Japanese dishes, a casual family-friendly setup, or flexibility to order à la carte instead of committing to a set progression.
Kaizen: Omakase & Hand Roll Sushi Restaurant
8.7
Kaizen focuses on premium hand rolls and omakase, pairing precise technique with high-end fish flown in from Japan and top markets. Counter seating and tightly curated sets turn classic rolls into a more polished, cocktail-ready experience than your typical neighborhood sushi joint.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Kaizen Hand Roll Set, Kaizen Maki, Otoro Premium Hand Roll
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: High-end hand roll omakase marrying seasonal fish with bar-forward energy.
Who should go: Roll obsessives wanting elevated omakase without Midtown formality.
When to visit: Evenings for omakase or hand roll-focused dinners.
What to order: The Kaizen Hand Roll Set, kaizen maki, otoro hand roll.
Insider tip: Sit at the counter; you’ll see every hand roll assembled to order.
Kaizen: Omakase & Hand Roll Sushi Restaurant
8.1
Vibes:
Trendy Table Hotspots
Girls Night Out Approved
Birthday & Celebration Central
Group Dining Gatherings
Kaizen is an omakase and hand-roll restaurant where a 15-course bar-only tasting leans into A5 wagyu, otoro, and uni alongside an energetic cocktail-driven scene. Shorter lunch omakase sets and hand-roll menus make the experience more flexible than classic, ultra-formal counters.
Must-Try Dishes:
15-course premium omakase with A5 wagyu and otoro, 10-course lunch omakase with seasonal nigiri, Kaizen signature hand roll set
Scores:
Value: 6.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Lively omakase bar mixing serious sushi with a social, cocktail-forward room.
Who should go: Groups or couples wanting upbeat omakase with drinks.
When to visit: Weekend evenings for full bar energy and longer tastings.
What to order: 15-course omakase, A5 wagyu bite, signature hand rolls.
Insider tip: Book bar seats specifically; the full omakase runs only there.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited around Northern Blvd and Union St; expect meter hunting. Nearest reliable option is the One Fulton Square garage (paid, usually $8–$15 depending on duration).
Dress code: Smart casual leaning trendy. Jeans are fine, but most guests opt for elevated outfits given the cocktail-forward, social vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to loud—conversation is doable but expect bar energy, music, and a lively crowd, especially during peak omakase seatings.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–60 minutes if trying for hand-roll seats without a reservation; omakase bar is reservation-only and typically books out days in advance.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait for hand rolls or shorter lunch sets; omakase bar may still require advance booking.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited—omakase is seafood-driven and not easily modified, though hand-roll sets may offer 1–2 vegetable options.
Vegan options: Not recommended—almost no suitable substitutes within tasting menus.
Gluten-free options: Possible with advance notice. Many sushi components are naturally gluten-free, but soy sauce and certain marinades need substitution; alert the team ahead of time.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something energetic rather than intimate. The bar-style omakase encourages shared reactions and conversation, but it’s not ideal for a quiet, slow-paced first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? For the full 15-course omakase, no—bar seats must be reserved. For hand rolls or quick sets, walk-ins are possible but peak nights fill fast; go early or aim for late hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The menu is raw-fish forward, seating is bar-centric, and noise levels trend high. Teens comfortable with sushi might enjoy it, but younger kids won’t find much suitable.
Best For
Better for: A more social, high-energy omakase experience with premium ingredients, cocktails, and flexibility in menu formats (full tasting, lunch omakase, or hand-roll sets).
Skip if: You want a hushed, traditional, or slow-paced omakase environment; you need extensive dietary modifications; or you prefer quieter, more ceremonial sushi experiences.
Kaizen: Omakase & Hand Roll Sushi Restaurant
8.3
Kaizen straddles the line between omakase bar and cocktail hangout, pairing a 15-course chef’s counter with premium hand rolls and a busy sake and drinks program. It’s less hushed temple and more high-energy chef’s table, built for groups and friends lingering over courses and cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
15-course premium omakase, A5 Miyazaki wagyu hand roll, Hokkaido uni hand roll
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Lively omakase and hand-roll counter that feels like a sushi party.
Who should go: Groups wanting chef’s counter sushi with real bar energy.
When to visit: Weekend evenings for bottomless buzz and full-length omakase.
What to order: Premium 15-course omakase, A5 wagyu roll, Hokkaido uni roll.
Insider tip: Book counter seats; that’s where the chef-led action and pacing shine.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be tight after 6pm in West Flushing; nearby garage options at One Fulton Square usually have open spots in the evenings.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but most groups lean slightly dressy due to the bar-forward vibe.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud during peak hours; conversation is doable but expect lively bar energy around the counter.
Weekend wait: Plan for 30–45 minutes if you’re aiming for counter seats without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Typically little to no wait, especially for shorter omakase or hand-roll sets.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—some vegetable-forward hand rolls and small bites, but the main tasting menu is fish-focused.
Vegan options: Very limited; omakase format is not designed for vegan dining.
Gluten-free options: Possible with advance notice; soy sauce swaps and selective course adjustments can be made.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want a high-energy sushi experience with cocktails; the counter interaction and pacing make it engaging, though not ideal if you prefer quiet conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes for hand-roll seating or bar spots, but counter seats for the full omakase fill quickly on weekends—arrive early or book ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for adults and older teens; the long tasting format and louder nightlife vibe may not suit younger children.
Best For
Better for: High-energy omakase with strong cocktails, hand-roll flexibility, and a social counter format ideal for groups or celebratory nights.
Skip if: You prefer quiet, traditional omakase, have strict dietary restrictions, or want a slower, more contemplative chef’s table experience.
Kaizen: Omakase & Hand Roll Sushi Restaurant
8.8
Kaizen is a high-end temaki and omakase lounge where Chef Sam’s 15-course tasting menus, polished cocktails, and a cherry-blossom centerpiece make dinner feel like an occasion. It’s one of Flushing’s most polished rooms for sushi-focused date nights, with counter seats for omakase and booths for longer, cocktail-driven evenings.
Must-Try Dishes:
15-course premium omakase, Kaizen Toast hand roll, Miso cod appetizer
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Temaki-and-omakase spot with dramatic decor and special-occasion energy.
Who should go: Couples wanting a polished, omakase-focused date night.
When to visit: Prime-time evenings, especially Fridays and Saturdays.
What to order: Premium omakase, Kaizen Toast, miso cod.
Insider tip: Book sushi-counter omakase seats for the most immersive experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is possible but tight after 6pm; nearby paid garages along Roosevelt Avenue and Union Street are the most reliable.
Dress code: Smart casual with a slightly dressy lean; polished tops, dark denim, and casual jackets fit the room’s elevated vibe.
Noise level: Moderate—lively energy from the bar and omakase counter, but couples can still hold a clear conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for omakase counter seats.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; early evenings before 6:30pm remain manageable.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable hand rolls, miso soup, and select starters are available.
Vegan options: Limited—mostly vegetable rolls and simple sides; omakase is not vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Good support—many nigiri and sashimi items are naturally gluten-free; request tamari and avoid sauce-heavy specials.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the polished decor, counter interaction with the chef, and smooth pacing make it an intimate, memorable first-date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible for hand-roll seating or booths on weekdays; for omakase, reservations are strongly recommended and often essential on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal—it's designed for adults, date nights, and group outings; older teens comfortable with sushi may fit, but there are no kid-specific dishes.
Best For
Better for: Special-occasion omakase with dramatic decor and a more upscale, celebratory setting than most Flushing hand-roll counters.
Skip if: You want a quiet, minimalist sushi bar or a fast, inexpensive weeknight roll shop—this leans polished and experience-driven.