Kema by KENAKI

For Maryland locals seeking more than just traditional sushi, Kema by KENAKI in Potomac offers a refreshing and innovative approach to Japanese cuisine. This restaurant is quickly establishing itself as a standout, celebrated for its creative dishes, meticulous attention to detail, and a dining experience that is both sophisticated and deeply satisfying. It’s a place where culinary boundaries are thoughtfully pushed, providing a "brilliant take on traditional dishes" without veering into pretentiousness.

Kema by KENAKI isn't just about serving fresh fish; it's about crafting a memorable journey for the palate. The team behind Kema, including the sibling duo Chef Ken and Aki Ballogdajan, brings a rich family history in the restaurant industry, alongside modern culinary expertise. This heritage allows them to build on traditional foundations while infusing contemporary flavors and techniques, resulting in dishes that are "flavorful, well thought out, and made with care and attention to detail." It’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression, with diners often finding themselves "couldn’t stop talking about the food after we left."

This establishment is ideal for those in Maryland who are eager to explore a "new restaurant experience." While it might not be "everyone's cup of tea" due to its innovative nature, for adventurous diners and sushi aficionados, Kema by KENAKI promises an exciting evolution of Japanese flavors, making it a must-visit destination in the Potomac area.

Kema by KENAKI is conveniently located at 11325 Seven Locks Rd Suite 115, Potomac, MD 20854, USA. This address places it within Cabin John Village, a well-known shopping center in Potomac, Maryland. This location makes Kema by KENAKI highly accessible for residents of Potomac and neighboring affluent communities within Montgomery County, such as Bethesda, Rockville, and Gaithersburg.

Seven Locks Road is a significant local artery, ensuring that the restaurant is easy to find for those traveling by car. As part of a shopping village, Kema by KENAKI benefits from ample parking availability, a crucial convenience for patrons in a suburban setting like Potomac where personal vehicles are the primary mode of transportation.

While Potomac is predominantly a car-dependent area, Montgomery County's Ride On bus service does provide local routes that connect various parts of Potomac to nearby transit hubs and amenities. For those utilizing public transportation, planning a trip with WMATA's (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority) or Ride On's trip planner would be advisable, though direct routes to Cabin John Village might require transfers. The restaurant's presence within a popular local hub like Cabin John Village enhances its visibility and ease of access for local diners seeking a high-quality culinary experience without having to venture into downtown D.C. or other more distant urban centers.

Kema by KENAKI offers a sophisticated and innovative Japanese dining experience, specializing in sushi but extending to a curated selection of small plates and other Japanese-inspired dishes.

• Innovative Sushi and Maki Rolls: Kema by KENAKI is celebrated for its inventive approach to sushi. Beyond standard rolls, they feature unique "Signature Maki" like the "Black Magic Roll" (forbidden rice, spicy tuna, pickled jalapeño, truffle oil, tempura flakes, black tobiko, avocado, and crispy leeks) and the "Donkey Kong Roll" (eel, fried plantain, cream cheese, cucumber, tempura flakes, togarashi mayo, and sweet shoyu). These rolls showcase their ability to combine traditional elements with exciting, unexpected flavors.

• Premium Nigiri and Sashimi: The restaurant offers a selection of high-quality nigiri and sashimi, including various tasting options such as the "Japanese Nigiri Tasting" (featuring threadfish bream, sea bream, splendid alfonsino, yellowtail, sea urchin, and scallop) and the "Bluefin Nigiri Tasting" (Akami, Chu-Toro, O-Toro, and O-Toro Aburi). Individual nigiri pieces with premium fish like Golden Threadfin Bream from Japan and Kingfish from Holland are also available.

• Creative Small Plates (Crudo & Hot Appetizers): Kema by KENAKI excels in its small plate offerings, which demonstrate an innovative culinary vision. Examples include "Hiramasa Crudo" (Kingfish with orange, watermelon radish, red onion, jalapeño, micro cilantro, chili oil, and spicy yuzu vinaigrette), "O-Toro Tataki" (seared bluefin tuna belly with ponzu, truffle oil, scallion, crispy garlic, and watermelon radish), and "Crispy Rice + Spicy Tuna" (a highly praised dish). Hot appetizers like "Shrimp Tempura Plate" and "Karaage Plate" (Japanese style fried chicken) are also on the menu.

• Soups and Salads with Unique Dressings: Classic Japanese staples are elevated with attention to detail. Their Miso Soup is described as "phenomenal." The "Kale Salad" with dinosaur and curly kale, nappa, pecorino, walnuts, dried cranberry, crispy red onion, and a "delicious carrot ginger dressing" is a notable fresh offering.

• Specialty Beverages: In addition to food, Kema by KENAKI offers a range of beverages. Their "lemonades were amazing," indicating a focus on crafting high-quality, refreshing drinks to complement the meal. They also offer a selection of soft drinks.

• Dine-in Service: Kema provides a comfortable dine-in experience, although seating might be intimate as one reviewer mentioned a "narrow table." Reservations are available and recommended, especially for peak hours.

• Takeout and Delivery: For convenience, Kema by KENAKI offers pick-up and delivery services through platforms like DoorDash and GrubHub, allowing locals to enjoy their innovative cuisine at home.

Kema by KENAKI in Potomac, Maryland, stands out due to several distinctive features and highlights that contribute to its acclaimed dining experience.

• Innovative and Brilliant Take on Traditional Dishes: This is arguably Kema's most prominent highlight. Diners consistently praise the restaurant for its "innovative and brilliant take on traditional dishes," and for being "completely different from any food I had had at a Japanese restaurant without it being too much of a departure from tradition." Dishes like the "Black Magic Roll" and "Crispy Rice/Spicy Tuna" are lauded for their creativity and unique flavor profiles.

• Exceptional Flavor and Attention to Detail: Reviews repeatedly emphasize that "everything was flavorful, well thought out and made with care and attention to detail." This meticulous approach ensures that each dish is not only delicious but also thoughtfully constructed, from the quality of ingredients to the balance of flavors. The "kale salad was fresh and the carrot ginger dressing was delicious," and the "miso soup was phenomenal."

• High-Quality Ingredients: The focus on premium ingredients is evident in their offerings, such as the "O-Toro Tataki" (seared bluefin tuna belly) and the variety of rare fish featured in their "Japanese Nigiri Tasting." This commitment to quality forms the foundation of their exceptional flavors.

• Crafted Beverages: Beyond the food, the "lemonades were amazing," indicating that even their non-alcoholic beverage program receives the same level of care and attention to detail as their culinary creations.

• Unique Dining Experience: Kema by KENAKI is presented as more than just a meal; it's an "experience." For those "looking for a new restaurant experience," it offers a distinct departure from standard sushi restaurants, inviting diners to explore new tastes and combinations.

• Sister Restaurant to KENAKI Sushi Counter: Kema is part of the KENAKI family of restaurants, which includes the well-regarded KENAKI Sushi Counter in Gaithersburg and AKO by KENAKI in D.C. This lineage speaks to a proven track record of quality and culinary expertise from Chef Ken and Aki Ballogdajan.

Kema by KENAKI in Potomac, Maryland, offers several structured promotions and special offers designed to provide value and enhance the dining experience for its local clientele. These include specific lunch combos and a potential happy hour.

• Lunch Combos (Online Only/Pick-Up Only): Kema by KENAKI features enticing lunch combo deals, particularly available for online orders and pick-up.

  • Two Maki (Roll) + Lemonade: This combo allows customers to select two standard rolls and pair them with a house lemonade for a set price, often around $14.50. This is a great option for a quick and satisfying lunch.

  • Two Maki (Roll) + Miso: Similar to the above, this combo offers two standard rolls and a small miso soup for about $14.50, providing a comforting and complete meal.

  • Crunchy Set + Miso: A more substantial option, this includes four specific "crunchy" rolls (Crunchy Spicy Tuna, Crunchy Spicy Salmon, Crunchy Avocado + Cucumber, Crunchy Shrimp) paired with miso soup for around $30.00.

  These lunch combos typically state "NO MODIFICATIONS & AVAILABLE FOR PICK UP ONLY," indicating they are designed for efficiency and value.

• Happy Hour: While specific details like the full menu might vary, information suggests that KENAKI Sushi Counter (a related establishment by the same owners) offers Happy Hour Monday to Friday from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM. It is highly probable that Kema by KENAKI, sharing the same culinary philosophy and ownership, offers similar happy hour specials at its Potomac location. These often include discounted beers, sake, house wines, and select appetizers or sushi rolls. Locals should verify the exact happy hour times and offerings directly with Kema by KENAKI.

• Gift Cards: Kema by KENAKI also offers gift cards, which are a convenient way for locals to share the Kema experience with friends and family, or to treat themselves to future meals.

To get the most current and accurate information on any promotions or special offers, it is always recommended to check Kema by KENAKI's official website, their online ordering portals (like Toast or DoorDash), or to call the restaurant directly.

For those in Maryland eager to experience the innovative Japanese cuisine at Kema by KENAKI, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 11325 Seven Locks Rd Suite 115, Potomac, MD 20854, USA

Phone: (240) 907-2194

Kema by KENAKI is exceptionally well-suited for locals in the Maryland region, particularly those in Potomac and surrounding Montgomery County areas, who possess a discerning palate and an eagerness for culinary innovation. It offers a unique and highly satisfying Japanese dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Firstly, its reputation for "innovative and brilliant takes on traditional dishes" means it caters to a sophisticated local clientele looking for more than just standard sushi. For residents who appreciate quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a menu that pushes creative boundaries without being overly indulgent, Kema by KENAKI delivers. Dishes like the Black Magic Roll and Crispy Rice/Spicy Tuna are not just food; they are culinary statements that provide a "new restaurant experience," ensuring that locals looking to impress guests or simply treat themselves will find exactly what they're seeking. The highly praised flavors and meticulous attention to detail ensure a consistently high-quality meal that locals can be proud to recommend.

Secondly, its location within Cabin John Village in Potomac offers immense convenience. Ample parking removes a common urban hassle, making it easy for locals to visit whether for a planned dinner or a spontaneous lunch. While Potomac is suburban, being positioned in a well-known local hub means it’s easily integrated into daily routines and local outings. The availability of online ordering and pick-up options further enhances its suitability for the busy local lifestyle, allowing patrons to enjoy Kema's exquisite flavors from the comfort of their homes.

Finally, the positive feedback on both food and even supporting elements like "amazing lemonades" underscores a commitment to excellence across the board. While one review mentioned a narrow table, the overall sentiment is that such minor details do not detract from the overwhelmingly positive dining experience. For Maryland locals, Kema by KENAKI is more than just a sushi restaurant; it’s a culinary destination that consistently offers exciting flavors, artistic presentation, and a fresh perspective on Japanese cuisine, making it a compelling and cherished local favorite.

Kema by KENAKI

11325 Seven Locks Rd Suite 115, Potomac, MD 20854, USA