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ZipPicks Awards
Best Luxury Dining Japanese in the Sunset District
Best Instagram Worthy Sushi in the Sunset District
Best Business Lunch Japanese in the Sunset District
Best Date Night Sushi in the Sunset District
Best Sushi Rolls in the Sunset District
Best Japanese in the Sunset District
Best Sushi in the Sunset District
Master Critic Review
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.
Hours
Monday12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm
Tuesday12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm
Wednesday12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm
Thursday12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 9pm
Friday12pm - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm
Saturday12pm - 10pm
Sunday12pm - 9pm