Okoze

Okoze Restaurant Review:

One of the more inventive restaurants to splash onto the Russian Hill scene is Okoze, whose tranquil surroundings complement the inventive combinations and presentations of sparklingly fresh fish. Chef Jason Kim arrived from his sushi chef position in Osaka about four years ago and has spent his time here at the Richmond's exalted Ebisu. Now, all of the details are his. Bamboo lines one entry wall while the other displays arranged panels of oak. Rich textile wall hangings evoke a sense of place far away from the cable cars and computers of daily life. With a glass of plum wine or unfiltered saké and a menu, the journey begins. Start off with the Golden Dinosaur, a crisped sea urchin and shiso leaf sandwich. Rich white tuna belly is topped with garlic sauce or ponzu with scallion and shredded radish. Delicate scallop nigiri arrives with a crown of caviar. The exceptional rolls include a spicy albacore version that's paired with tempura asparagus and rolled with an outer ring of crispy rice. Meals are finished with a refreshing bowl of oranges cut and trimmed by a masterful kitchen.