Kaz Showcases Sushi

Kaz Sushi Bistro

1915 Eye Street, N.W.

202.530.5500

Kaz Sushi Bistro (Photo Credit: Jennifer Neuner)

If you are a sushi enthusiast, then you most likely have selective standards when it comes to sampling this Japanese culinary staple. Whether you are a diehard sushi fan or trying it for the first time, Kaz Sushi Bistro, located just a few blocks north of campus, is an ideal starting point.

Named after owner Kazuhiro Okochi, Kaz Sushi Bistro opened in 1999 and quickly gained a prominent reputation, earning rave reviews from the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington for its colorful presentation and modern twist on Japanese dishes. Okochi is no stranger to sushi, as he has studied in Osaka, Japan and previously worked at Sushi-Ko, one of the district’s oldest sushi bars. He also has experience in ice carving and Chinese cooking. A self-described “freestyle” approach to Japanese cuisine marks Chef Kaz’s signature style. You will love the delicious basil and mango-infused sauces that heighten the flavor of the koshihikari (short-grain rice grown in California) and nori (seaweed).

If it is not the relaxed and inviting atmosphere that brings you to Kaz, then perhaps it is the careful preparation that Chef Kaz takes when delivering his authentic sushi offerings. Also, you will not be limited to just salmon rolls because Kaz has everything from signature sushi, such as the blue crab with celery and red bell pepper to spicy scallop rolls and even sun-dried tomato and Portobello rolls for vegetarians. A longtime fan of the tuna rolls, I decided to try the signature tuna with kalamata olive pesto rolls which were absolutely delicious. At $6 per signature order, it was very easy to mix it up and sample a lot of different varieties.

Tuna, eel, flounder, and shrimp nigiri (hand formed mounds of sushi rice with the seafood draped on top) are some of the most popular dinner menu items, but lunch, dessert, and even custom-made specialty platters are also available. I was especially impressed that in addition to the sushi, Kaz also offers a variety of soups, salads, and sides like vegetable miso soup for $4.50 and shrimp and vegetable tempura for $7.50. If you do decide to sample the trademark sushi, don’t be alarmed if the rice has a reddish tint to it as Chef Kaz specifically prepares his rice with aged red rice vinegar, known for its high amino acid content.

Overall, the relaxed atmosphere and personable staff make Kaz Sushi Bistro a prime dining option for sushi goers. Open Monday through Saturday from 11:30 a.m.-10:00 p.m., Kaz Sushi Bistro offers catering, gift certificates, and upon request, sushi and Japanese cooking lessons to groups of 10 or more.