Kaizen Sushi PDX: Experience Freshness and Skill in Portland's Old Town

Kaizen Sushi PDX Introduce

For sushi enthusiasts across Oregon, the quest for truly exceptional and authentic Japanese cuisine often leads to Portland's vibrant culinary scene. Among the many choices, Kaizen Sushi PDX has rapidly emerged as a standout destination, particularly for those seeking an elevated sushi experience. This isn't just another sushi spot; it's a place where the art of Japanese culinary tradition meets modern flair, consistently delivering dishes that impress even the most discerning palates.

Since opening its doors, Kaizen Sushi PDX has garnered significant attention, even earning a feature in Eater as a must-try in Old Town. This rapid success is a testament to their commitment to quality, from sourcing incredibly fresh seafood to the masterful execution by their skilled chefs. Whether you're a seasoned sushi connoisseur or simply looking for a fantastic meal, Kaizen Sushi PDX offers a dynamic and memorable dining experience right here in the heart of Portland.

Location and Accessibility

Kaizen Sushi PDX is conveniently situated at 40 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204, USA. This prime location places it right in the bustling heart of Portland's Old Town, a district known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and diverse dining options.

Being in Old Town makes Kaizen Sushi PDX highly accessible for both downtown workers and visitors exploring the city's core. Its proximity to public transportation options, including MAX light rail lines and bus routes, further enhances its accessibility, making it easy for anyone in the greater Portland area to reach. For those driving, street parking may be available in the vicinity, though it's always advisable to check local parking regulations and consider parking garages in the downtown area, especially during peak hours. The restaurant's position in Old Town also means it’s surrounded by other attractions and entertainment venues, making it an excellent spot for a pre-show dinner or a post-work gathering.

Kaizen Sushi PDX operates with specific hours to best serve its patrons: they are closed on Mondays, open Tuesday through Thursday from 4 PM to 9 PM, and extend their hours on Friday and Saturday from 12 PM to 10 PM. On Sundays, they are open from 12 PM to 9 PM. Given their popularity, especially for Omakase experiences, reservations are highly recommended and can be made by phone during business hours. While walk-ins are welcome, availability can be limited, so planning ahead is always a good idea to ensure you secure a spot at this sought-after sushi destination.

Services Offered

Kaizen Sushi PDX prides itself on offering a comprehensive and high-quality sushi dining experience. Here's a detailed look at the services and offerings you can expect:

Dine-In Service: Enjoy a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal, a special occasion, or even dining solo at the sushi bar. The restaurant features a cozy setup with counter seating that allows diners to watch the chefs at work, enhancing the overall experience.
Omakase Experience: For those seeking an unparalleled culinary journey, Kaizen Sushi PDX offers an Omakase option at the sushi bar. This chef's choice tasting menu allows the highly skilled chefs, such as Chef Carlos and Chef Alex, to showcase their creativity and the freshest available ingredients, often including fish flown in daily from Japan. The Omakase experiences typically last around two hours and start at $125 per person, potentially increasing based on guest preferences, usually including three appetizers and 10-12 pieces of nigiri. Reservations are highly recommended for the Omakase experience.
Extensive Sushi and Sashimi Selection: The core of Kaizen Sushi PDX's offering is its wide array of fresh sushi and sashimi. Diners can choose from classic nigiri and sashimi cuts, with a strong emphasis on the quality and freshness of the seafood. Specialties often include various types of tuna, salmon, yellowtail, and unique seasonal fish, with prices for nigiri and sashimi varying by type of fish.
Signature and Specialty Rolls: Beyond traditional offerings, Kaizen Sushi PDX crafts innovative and delicious specialty rolls. Popular examples highlighted by customers include the "Albacore," "Keep Portland Weird," and "Sunshine" rolls, all praised for their great flavors and fresh ingredients. Other notable rolls like "Dragon," "The Pacific NW Roll," and "Kaizen" roll feature creative combinations and presentations.
Appetizers and Small Plates: The menu also features a selection of delightful appetizers designed to complement the sushi experience. Highly recommended are their fresh oysters, prepared "Kaizen style" with yuzu tobiko, ponzu, and green onion, which customers describe as "absolutely amazing." Other starters include Edamame, Sunomono, Hiyayakko (chilled tofu), Ceviche Mix, and Poke bowls.
Specialty Plates and Donburi Bowls: Beyond rolls and nigiri, the menu offers a range of specialty plates like Salmon Teriyaki, Miso Black Cod, and Ahi Tower, as well as various Donburi (rice bowl) options such as Tekka Don, Sake Ikura Don, and Unagi Don.
Beverage Program: To perfectly pair with your meal, Kaizen Sushi PDX offers a curated selection of beverages, including an extensive sake selection and a full bar. Guests are also permitted to bring their own unopened bottle of wine or sake (not sold at the establishment) for a corkage fee of $25 per bottle, with a maximum of two bottles per table.
Online Ordering/Delivery Options: While primary focus is dine-in, Kaizen Sushi PDX is listed on various delivery platforms like Grubhub, allowing customers the convenience of enjoying their fresh sushi from the comfort of their homes.

Features / Highlights

What makes Kaizen Sushi PDX a standout choice for sushi lovers in Oregon? Several key features and highlights contribute to its growing reputation:

Exceptional Seafood Freshness: This is consistently the most emphasized highlight by customers. Reviews frequently praise the "really fresh seafood" and "great quality" of the fish, which is paramount for any sushi establishment. The practice of flying in fish daily from Japan for nigiri specials further underscores their commitment to unparalleled freshness, a true treat for local connoisseurs.
Skilled and Engaging Chefs: The culinary team, including Chef Carlos and Chef Alex, receives direct shout-outs from patrons for their "great meal and killer sushi." The opportunity to sit at the sushi counter and "enjoy watching the chefs utilize their skills and put out awesome food" adds an interactive and memorable dimension to the dining experience, making it a unique draw for locals.
Innovative and Flavorful Rolls: Beyond classic sushi, Kaizen Sushi PDX is celebrated for its unique and well-crafted specialty rolls. The "Albacore," "Keep Portland Weird," and "Sunshine" rolls are examples of their creative approach to flavor combinations that consistently impress, offering exciting options beyond the traditional.
Renowned Appetizers: The oysters, prepared "Kaizen style" (with yuzu tobiko, ponzu, and green onion), are a significant highlight, described as "absolutely amazing" and "highly recommended." This indicates a strong attention to detail and quality across their entire menu, not just the sushi.
Eater Feature Recognition: Being featured in Eater, a respected culinary publication, as a "must try in Old Town" shortly after opening speaks volumes about their immediate impact and high quality within the competitive Portland food scene. This recognition builds confidence and attracts discerning diners from across the state.
Positive Customer Reviews: Consistent glowing feedback, mentioning everything from fresh ingredients and beautiful presentation to friendly service and a comfortable atmosphere, solidifies Kaizen Sushi PDX's reputation as a top-tier sushi destination. Reviewers often call it some of the "best sushi I've ever had," making it a highly recommended spot among locals.
Omakase Experience: The availability of an Omakase option provides a high-end, personalized dining experience, showcasing the chefs' expertise and the finest seasonal ingredients. This caters to serious sushi aficionados looking for an elevated culinary journey, right here in Portland.
Prime Old Town Location: Situated in a vibrant and accessible part of Portland, Kaizen Sushi PDX benefits from a bustling environment, making it a convenient and desirable spot for both locals and visitors exploring the city.

Promotions or Special Offers

While Kaizen Sushi PDX maintains a reputation for high-quality, fresh seafood and an exceptional dining experience, specific, regularly advertised promotions or special offers are not prominently featured in publicly available information. Their emphasis appears to be on delivering consistent value through the superior quality of their ingredients and the skill of their chefs.

However, discerning diners should be aware of a few potential avenues for special offerings:

Nigiri Specials with Daily Fish: As noted in customer reviews and on their website, Kaizen Sushi PDX frequently offers "nigiri specials with fish flown in that day from Japan." While not a discount, these are unique, limited-time offerings of exceptionally fresh and sometimes rare ingredients that constitute a special culinary opportunity for patrons to experience truly unique flavors.
Omakase Experience: Although it's a premium offering, the Omakase experience itself can be considered a "special offer" in terms of a curated, unique meal not available every day. These tasting menus provide an exclusive journey through the chef's selections and are a highlight for those seeking a bespoke dining event.
Gift Cards: Kaizen Sushi PDX gift cards are available through platforms like Giftly, allowing individuals to purchase digital gift cards up to $1,000 for use at the restaurant. While not a direct promotion from the restaurant, these can be a thoughtful way to "gift" a special meal to someone or plan for future visits, giving the recipient the flexibility to enjoy their fresh sushi when they choose.
Check Social Media/Website: Like many modern restaurants, Kaizen Sushi PDX might announce spontaneous specials, seasonal menu additions, or holiday-related offers via their official website or social media channels. It is always a good practice for interested customers to check these platforms directly for the most up-to-date information, as special opportunities might arise.

Given the restaurant's reported success and popularity, especially with features in publications like Eater, Kaizen Sushi PDX's business model likely relies more on the consistent excellence of its food and service rather than aggressive promotional campaigns. The quality and unique offerings often speak for themselves.

Contact Information

If you're ready to experience the exquisite sushi and Japanese cuisine at Kaizen Sushi PDX, here's how you can get in touch:

Address: 40 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204, USA
Phone: (971) 288-5160
Mobile Phone: +1 971-288-5160

For reservations, especially for the Omakase experience, it is highly recommended to call the restaurant directly during their business hours to ensure availability.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Oregonians, particularly those in the Portland metropolitan area, Kaizen Sushi PDX is an ideal dining destination for several compelling reasons. It truly embodies what locals look for in a quality establishment: freshness, authenticity, and a connection to the city's vibrant food culture.

Firstly, the unwavering commitment to "really fresh seafood" and the practice of flying in fish daily from Japan resonate deeply with Oregonians who value quality and locally (or, in this case, globally sourced with integrity) conscious dining. This dedication ensures a superior product that discerning sushi lovers will appreciate. The consistent praise for their sushi's taste and quality in numerous reviews further solidifies its appeal, making it a reliable choice for a consistently excellent meal.

Secondly, the restaurant’s location in Portland's historic Old Town district offers a quintessential urban experience. It's easily accessible and situated in a lively area, making it a convenient spot for a wide range of occasions, from a spontaneous dinner out to a planned evening with friends. The fact that it has quickly gained recognition, including a feature in Eater, speaks to its immediate impact and standing as a significant new player in the local culinary scene. Oregonians often take pride in supporting businesses that achieve such acclaim, and Kaizen Sushi PDX has certainly earned its stripes.

Finally, the interactive and personal dining experience, particularly at the sushi bar where patrons can witness the "killer sushi" being crafted by skilled chefs like Carlos and Alex, creates a memorable and engaging atmosphere. This blend of high-quality food, expert preparation, and a welcoming environment makes Kaizen Sushi PDX not just a place to eat, but a place to experience the best of Japanese cuisine right here in Portland. The Omakase option provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the chefs' artistry, making it a fantastic choice for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something truly extraordinary. For locals seeking an exceptional sushi adventure, Kaizen Sushi PDX is undoubtedly a must-try.

Kaizen Sushi PDX Menu

Traditional Rolls
Spicy Salmon US$11.50
Spicy salmon, white onion, cucumber, green onion.
Super California US$20.00
Crab salad, avocado, cucumber, topped with unagi.
Salmon Avocado Roll US$13.80
Rainbow US$20.70
California roll topped with 4 kinds of fish.
Philly Roll US$11.50
Cucumber, smoked salmon and cream cheese.
Salmon Roll US$11.50
eating raw or uncooked eggs meats or seafood may be harmful to your health. some items may contain eggs nuts or shellfish.
Unagi, Avocado, Cucumber US$13.80
Caterpillar US$20.70
Crab salad, eel, cucumber, topped with avocado. eel sauce
Tuna Roll US$11.50
Negihama US$11.50
Yellowtail, green onion.
Spicy Scallops US$11.50
Spicy scallops with cucumber.
Tuna And Avocado (5pcs) US$14.00
Tuna and Avocado roll
California US$10.35
Crab salad, avocado, cucumber.
Spicy Tuna US$11.50
Spicy tuna, white onion, cucumber, green onion.

Specialty Plates
Salmon Flight US$23.00
Salmon belly, salmon aburi, ocean trout and wild sockeye salmon. choice of sashimi or nigiri.
Sake Ikura Don US$41.40
Salmon sashimi, Salmon Eggs, Over sushi rice
Salmon Belly With Grapefruit (4) US$23.00
Grapefruit wrapped with Salmon toro, microgreens, spicy yuzu oil, oregon sea salt.
Monkey Brain US$23.00
Spicy tuna, crab salad, sesame seasoned seaweed salad wrapped with avocado. with tobiko and sauces.
Ahi Tower US$23.00
Layered spicy sesame tuna, avocado, crab salad, rice, creamy wasabi, and tobiko.
Chef's Choice Nigiri (8) US$46.00
Freshest fish of the day, including specialty fish
Miso Black Cod US$25.30
Alaskan black cod marinated in a rich saikyo miso.
Hokkaido Scallops And Japanese Uni (4) US$31.00
Hokkaido scallops, uni (sea urchin), shiso, yuzu juice, white truffle vinaigrette, and togarashi. topped with wasabi tobiko.
Chef's Choice Sashimi US$57.50
5 kinds 3 pcs of each. Freshest fish of the day, including specialty fish
Hamachi Carpaccio (5) US$24.15
Hamachi, jalapeño, heirloom tomatoes, microgreens, and yuzu jalapeño vinaigrette.
Tuna (Tekka) Donburi US$34.50
big eye tuna sashimi over sushi rice
Salmon Teriyaki US$23.00
Baked salmon teriyaki with choice of rice or salad
Kani Uni Ikura Don US$46.00
Dungeness crab, Sea urchin, Salmon eggs, over sushi rice
Chirashi US$52.90
Sashimi fish over sushi rice. Freshest fish of the day, including specialty fish

Vegetarian Rolls
The Garden US$17.25
Cucumber, asparagus, kanpio, inari, topped with avocado, micro greens, and sweet chili
Cucumber US$5.75
Avocado Nigiri US$5.75
Kanpyo 6pcs US$8.05
sweet gourd squash .
Nattō US$6.90
Fermented soybeans.
Inari US$5.75
Rice wrapped in a fried tofu.
Ume - Shiso 6pcs US$6.90
Pickled plum, cucumber, Japanese mint.
Avocado Roll 6pcs US$6.90
Veggie (5pcs) US$11.50
Cucumber, avocado, romaine lettuce, yamagobo, asparagus.

Sashimi & Nigiri
Saba - Mackerel US$9.20
Marinated Japanese Mackerel.* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Salmon Belly* US$27.60
* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Albacore* US$23.00
White tuna.* Eating raw seafood or shellfish may be harmful to your health.
Unagi - Eel US$9.20
Freshwater eel
Tako US$9.20
Octopus
Smoked Salmon US$25.30
Shima Aji - Stripped Jack US$27.60
Striped Jack
Creamy Spicy Scallop* US$11.50
* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Salmon Belly Aburi (Seared)* US$13.80
* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Madai - Sea Bream US$13.80
Red Sea bream
Hamachi - Yellowtail US$23.00
Yellowtail.* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Hamachi Belly* US$27.60
* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Salmon* US$11.50
* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Hokkaido Scallop* US$11.50
* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Maguro - Tuna US$23.00
Big eye tuna.* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Ebi - Cook Shrimp US$9.20
Shrimp.* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Kanpachi - Amberjack US$13.80
Amberjack
Tamago US$8.05
Sweet folded omelet.
Aji - Horse Mackerel US$13.80
Horse mackerel* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Ikura - Salmon Roe US$11.50
Salmon roe.* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Oregon Dungeness Crab US$13.80
Ocean Trout* US$25.30
* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Fresh Wasabi US$5.75
Japanese horseradish.
Uni US$13.80
Sea urchin.* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Alaskan Wild Sockeye Salmon* US$25.30
* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.
Amaebi - Sweet Shrimp US$25.30
Sweet shrimp.* Eating raw or uncooked eggs, meats, or seafood may be harmful to your health. Some items may contain eggs, nuts or shellfish.

Specialty Rolls
The Pacific NW Roll (8) US$23.00
Dungeness crab, spicy albacore, cucumber, topped with albacore, creamy - spicy pesto, tempura bits, and eel sauce.
Oregon (8) US$19.55
Creamy salmon, avocado, white onion, green onion and masago, topped with shrimp.
Crunch (8) US$17.25
Shrimp tempura, crab salad, and avocado with tempura bits and unagi sauce.
Mirakutei (8) US$23.00
Avocado, cucumber, salmon, masago, topped with seared ocean trout, shiso and ikura.
Kaizen (8) US$23.00
Spicy tuna, cucumber,. top with hamachi, avocado, jalapeño, yuzu tobiko, ponzu sauce.
Firecracker (8 Pcs) US$20.70
Baked creamy spicy shrimp on top of dynamite roll. finished with green onion, unagi sauce.
Dragon (8) US$21.85
Shrimp tempura and salmon, topped with unagi and avocado, drizzled with unagi sauce and spicy mayo.
Keep Portland Weird (8) US$20.70
Unagi, asparagus, cream cheese, topped with smoked salmon, avocado, and a spicy sweet sauce.
Dynamite Salmon (8) US$19.55
Tuna, hamachi and salmon mix with sweet - spicy miso.
Hello Kitty US$18.40
California roll, topped with a mixture of baked spicy tuna, salmon, yellowtail, finished with unagi sauce and green onions
Salmon Aburi Roll (8) US$20.70
Tuna, asparagus, cucumber, avocado and masago topped with seared salmon and ponzu sauce.
Old Town US$21.85
Spicy salmon, cucumber, topped with Kanpachi (amberjack), avocado, ponzu sauce, wasabi tobiko, jalapeño slices
Naruto (6pcs) US$20.70
Cucumber wrap, spicy tuna, crab salad, salmon, avocado. wasabi aioli.
Trailblazer (8) US$20.70
Shrimp tempura, crab salad and avocado, topped with spicy tuna, black tobiko and a sweet creamy spicy pesto.
B - Side 6 (8) US$20.70
Spicy tuna, cucumber, white onion and green onion topped with hokkaido scallops and spicy yuzu.
Sunshine (8) US$20.70
Crab salad, asparagus, avocado. topped with salmon, mango, and wasabi aioli.

Starters
Sunomono US$5.90
Cucumber, wakame, sweet vinegar dressing.
House Salad US$11.50
green mix, heirloom tomatoes, With sesame vinaigrette.
Hiyashi Wakame US$11.50
Sesame seasoned seaweed salad.
Hiyayakko - Fresh Tofu US$10.35
Chilled local ota tofu, heirloom tomatoes, ponzu, green onion, bonito flakes, microgreens.
Poke US$23.00
Cucumber, seaweed salad mix, and choice of tuna / salmon
Miso Soup US$3.45
Soup that is made from miso paste.
Rice US$3.45
Edamame US$5.75
Soy beans
Oysters (Each) US$4.60
ponzu, yuzu tobiko, green onion. Kaizen style.
Ceviche Mix US$25.30
White fish, octopus, shrimp, tuna, red onion, cucumbers, heirloom tomatoes, ponzu. micro cilantro.
Baked Green Mussels US$16.10
Spicy aioli, masago, green onions

Kaizen Sushi PDX Details

Service options
Outdoor seating
Kerbside pickup
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Great tea selection

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Comfort food
Healthy options
Late-night food
Organic dishes
Small plates
Spirits
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Counter service
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar on site
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi

Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy

Crowd
Family friendly
LGBTQ+ friendly
Tourists
Transgender safe space

Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid street parking

Kaizen Sushi PDX Photos

Kaizen Sushi PDX Location

Kaizen Sushi PDX

Oregon Multnomah County Portland Southwest Portland Southwest 3rd Avenue

40 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204, USA

Kaizen Sushi PDX Reviews

Seafood was really fresh and very great flavors. We order oysters as an appetizer, absolutely amazing. Highly recommend. We ordered Albacore, Keep Portland Weird, and Sunshine rolls. All very good.
May 25 · Jose Gonzalez
Shout out to Chef Carlos and Chef Alex for the great meal and killer sushi! I had the sushi counter all to myself and enjoyed watching the chefs utilize their skills and put out awesome food. They had nigiri specials with fish flown in that day from Japan. I found it impressive that they were already featured in Eater as a must try in Old Town with the relative short time they’ve been open. With this success I don’t doubt they’ll be around for a while.
April 15 · Chai A
Delicious sushi and not too crowded or crazy expensive! We loved our meal. The rolls were delicious and the salmon belly was divine. Super cute spot with an upscale vibe and good drinks/wine. Staff was super nice and we just loved the experience! Very quiet and easy to get a reservation.
March 18 · Ava Johns
I've been here twice both on a weekend evening and both experiences were wonderful. The sushi has been fresh and delicious each time. I really love their salmon options.One time we did make reservations and the second time we didnt have reservations but we were lucky enough to get bar seating.We've had cocktail evenings there and also sake taster flights. You can't go wrong with either option!The staff on both nights were very friendly and helpful with recommendations.
May 19 · Dianne Namgung
Best Sushi in Portland! The service and staff are simply fantastic. Ever since we discovered Kai Zen a few years ago, we won’t go anywhere else for sushi. You won’t be disappointed!
March 22 · Viviana Bigolin