Hours
| Friday | 5:30–8:30 PM |
| Saturday | 5:30–8:30 PM |
| Sunday | 5:30–8:30 PM |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 5:30–8:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 5:30–8:30 PM |
| Thursday | Closed |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 2074 Broadway, Redwood City, CA 94063
Phone: (650) 281-4528
Website: https://www.sushikinsen.com/
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Sushi Kinsen
menu – Sushi Kinsen
Sushi Kinsen (Redwood City, CA) – Sunny’s “New” Kid on the Block
Reviews
Service was also amazing, everyone was extremely polite and observant.
Will definitely be back!
A defining strength of the experience is the professionalism of Chef Jason. His approach is meticulous and calm, demonstrating deep technical knowledge and an evident commitment to consistency. He works with a measured focus that sets the tone for the entire counter, and his ability to present each piece with confidence and precision contributes significantly to the restaurant’s overall standard. The interaction is subtle yet attentive, creating a sense of trust in the process and in the quality of each dish.
The atmosphere is warm and intimate, supported by a considerate service style and a well-structured sake program. The presentation of each course is understated yet elegant, often showcased on distinctive ceramic pieces that enhance the visual experience.
For those seeking a refined sushi experience in Redwood City, Sushi Kinsen delivers authenticity, discipline, and an approach guided by skill rather than theatrics. It is a place where expertise is evident in every detail, and where the professionalism of the chef elevates the entire meal.
The overall experience was genuinely memorable. The menu offers a great balance of classic Edomae techniques and creative touches. Quite a few items reminded us of the omakase we’ve had in Tokyo, especially around the Ginza area. The style even felt a bit similar to Sushi Ryujiro, even though the chef said he hasn’t been there. The Kohada also echoed the style of Kanesaka — there was a tiny bit of fishiness, but nothing off-putting, and the clean flavor still came through.
One thing to note: some dishes lean on the acidic side, especially the shari, which is probably one of the most acidic in the Bay Area. But this isn’t because the fish isn’t fresh — the fish is extremely fresh. The acidity is clearly intentional and works well with silver-skinned or oily fish. Just good to know depending on your preference.
Some standout bites for us included the abalone (tender with a bit of chew and great depth), the soft-boiled scallop with its rich, concentrated sauce, and the sardine roll with no rice — clean, simple, and incredibly harmonious. The squid was also one of the best we’ve had. The only miss for us was the tiger prawn, which came out a bit mushy from the kombu-jime, but the chef actually acknowledged he pushed that one further than usual.
Overall, we’d definitely come back. For sushi alone, Kinsen is already in our top three in the Bay Area. Friends who visited a month later said the menu had already changed, so we’re looking forward to returning and trying their new dishes.
+ The first four appetizers were my absolute favorite—they were much more flavorful and interesting than I’d normally expect at an omakase
– The abalone with noodle dish was a bit underwhelming unfortunately
+/- The fish on all the nigiris were really good. The slightly more acidic and warmer rice was different from what I normally have. I liked it but would personally order less rice for next time. The normal amount of rice definitely overpowered the bafun uni and chutoro.
+/- The handroll at the end was decent, but only because I had a much stronger one recently. And unfortunately the miso soup was meh, probably because it was quite cold
+ This was my first time having tamago with shrimp, which I really enjoyed. And the dessert was wonderful too
+/- The options for reservations at 8PM and 8.15PM were confusing. I thought they were 2 different seatings, but it’s essentially staggered arrival time
= Sunny was around to chat with guests and created a great atmosphere. I’d be curious to see how Chef Jason would host the experience on his own
Definitely would recommend this spot, and I’d love to come back soon for the winter offerings
The sake pairing, selected by GM Sunny, was another highlight , premium bottles that matched each course beautifully. Thoughtful service, elegant flow, and great energy overall. Definitely one of the most promising new omakase experiences in town.
My personal favorites were the shirako, the abalone soba, and the uni wrapped in squid nigiri
We also tried the sake pairing, and the selections complemented the omakase beautifully, it really elevated the entire experience and made the evening feel extra special. The sake serving vessels were also beautifully chosen elegant and thoughtfully matched, adding a subtle but lovely visual touch to the overall experience.
Overall, we had such a happy, satisfying meal. It’s definitely one of the top ones among the newer omakase spots that have opened recently in the Bay Area
As much as the service is impeccable, the food is the star. Each bite and each taste was incredible. I don’t know how I’m going to go back to “regular” sushi or poke. Believe it or not, it was worth every dollar to taste food that I’ll likely never taste again without going to another omakase place. I loved every moment.
One thing to improve — my wife’s no-mushroom preference was noted in the reservation and confirmed by the hostess, but a mushroom snack was still served. It should’ve been swapped for something else. Also, if the reservation asks about special occasions, a small acknowledgment would go a long way.
Outstanding food overall, but some attention to detail would make the experience truly top-tier.