Kobo

For residents of Maryland seeking an unparalleled Japanese dining experience, look no further than Kobo. Nestled within Sushiko in the vibrant Chevy Chase area, Kobo is not just a sushi restaurant; it’s a culinary atelier where traditional Japanese dishes are elevated with innovative touches. Helmed by the talented Tjan Brothers Chef, Kobo offers an intimate and unforgettable journey into modern Japanese perfection, making it a true gem for locals and visitors alike.

From the moment you step in, you’ll sense that Kobo is distinct from typical Asian fusion establishments. Instead, it’s a dedication to the artistry and precision that defines authentic Japanese cuisine. Guests consistently praise the authenticity and creative flair that the chefs bring to every dish, transforming a meal into an inspiring and joyous event. If you’re in Maryland and searching for the absolute best in Japanese food, Kobo promises an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Kobo is conveniently located inside Sushiko at 5455 Wisconsin Ave, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA. This prime location in Chevy Chase places it within easy reach for many Maryland residents, particularly those in Montgomery County and surrounding areas. The restaurant is situated in a bustling neighborhood known for its upscale shopping and dining, making it a perfect destination for a special evening out.

Accessibility is a significant advantage for Kobo. It’s positioned near the Friendship Heights Metro Station, making it readily accessible via public transportation for those who prefer to avoid driving. For guests arriving by car, parking is available in the Chevy Chase Pavilion parking lot, located directly across from the Friendship Heights Metro. Kobo offers free parking validation for the first two hours, with a minimal charge of $1 per hour thereafter. Entrances to the parking lot can be found on both Western Avenue and Wisconsin Avenue, ensuring easy access regardless of your approach.

Kobo specializes in a unique and immersive dining experience, setting it apart from many other sushi establishments. While it operates within Sushiko, Kobo offers a distinct focus, particularly through its intimate tasting counter.

• Omakase Dining Experience: Kobo is renowned for its multi-course Omakase dinner, a chef's tasting menu where the chefs curate a personalized culinary journey. This experience allows diners to savor a progression of expertly prepared dishes, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients and the chefs' exceptional skill. It's truly a "chef's choice" experience that inspires joy and fascination.
• Kappo Dining: Beyond traditional Omakase, Kobo also offers a Kappo experience. Kappo, which translates to "to cut and to cook," signifies a dining style where the chefs prepare dishes directly in front of the guests, engaging with them throughout the meal. This interactive element adds to the intimacy and artistry of the dining experience.
• Vegan Tasting Menu: Kobo is at the forefront of offering an exceptional vegan Kappo tasting menu. This innovative offering demonstrates the chefs' ability to create intricate and delicious plant-based Japanese cuisine, defying expectations and pushing culinary boundaries.
• Dine-in Service: Kobo provides an exquisite dine-in atmosphere, particularly at its intimate sushi counter, designed for an immersive and personal culinary interaction with the chefs.
• Reservations Recommended: Given the intimate nature and popularity of Kobo's dining experience, making reservations in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot at this sought-after establishment.

Kobo’s commitment to culinary excellence and an unforgettable dining experience is evident in its many features and highlights, which consistently earn rave reviews from patrons.

• Tjan Brothers Chef: The heart of Kobo's exceptional reputation lies with its executive chefs, Piter Tjan and Handry Tjan. These brothers are celebrated for their ability to take traditional Japanese dishes and infuse them with creative touches, resulting in what customers describe as "modern Japanese culinary perfection." Their engagement with guests during the Kappo experience is also highly praised.
• Authentic Japanese Cuisine with a Modern Twist: Kobo is celebrated for serving genuinely authentic Japanese food, eschewing the "Asian fusion" label. Instead, the focus is on enhancing traditional preparations with innovative techniques and presentations that inspire and delight. This approach highlights precision and simplicity, the core tenets of exceptional Japanese cuisine.
• Intimate Dining Counter: Kobo offers a private, often 6-8 seat, counter where diners have an unobstructed view of the chefs preparing each dish. This intimate setting allows for direct interaction with the chefs, enhancing the personal and educational aspects of the meal.
• High-Quality Ingredients: The chefs at Kobo are committed to using only the finest ingredients available. This dedication to quality is evident in every course, contributing to the rich flavors and exquisite textures of their dishes.
• Constantly Evolving Menu: To ensure a unique experience with every visit, Kobo’s menu is constantly evolving. The chefs keep their minds open to new ingredients and techniques, ensuring a fresh and exciting culinary journey while maintaining the soul of Japanese tradition.
• Exceptional Presentation: Beyond taste, Kobo places a strong emphasis on the visual appeal of its dishes. The use of carefully curated plateware, colors, and textures enhances the look and feel of every dish, exciting all the senses.

Kobo primarily offers structured tasting menus, which inherently provide a comprehensive culinary experience rather than individual promotions. Their Omakase and Kappo menus are priced as follows (note that prices can be subject to change, so it's always best to confirm when booking):

• Non-Vegan Kappo/Omakase Menu: This multi-course experience is typically available Thursday through Saturday evenings. Past pricing has been around $160 per person, inclusive of tax and tip.
• Vegan Kappo/Omakase Menu: Kobo offers a dedicated vegan tasting menu, often available on Tuesdays. Past pricing for the all-vegan menu has been around $130 per person, inclusive of tax and tip.

These structured offerings ensure a premium and complete dining experience, focusing on the quality and artistry of the cuisine rather than singular discounts. Guests are encouraged to visit Kobo's website or call for the most up-to-date pricing and availability of their tasting menus.

For reservations or inquiries about Kobo's unique dining experience, you can reach them through the following contact details:

Address: Inside Sushiko, 5455 Wisconsin Ave, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA

Phone: (301) 961-1644

It is highly recommended to call in advance or check their official website for reservation policies, as their intimate seating often fills up quickly.

For residents across Maryland, Kobo offers more than just a meal; it provides a unique and memorable culinary adventure right in the heart of Chevy Chase. Here’s why Kobo is perfectly suited for locals:

First and foremost, Kobo brings a level of authentic Japanese culinary perfection that is hard to find elsewhere in the region. Many customers rave about the experience, stating that it truly is the "best place to eat Japanese food." The Tjan Brothers Chef are praised for their mastery, their creative touches, and their ability to inspire "joy and fascination" with every dish. This isn't just about eating; it’s about experiencing a craft honed by passionate artists.

Its location in Chevy Chase makes it a convenient and accessible destination for those in Montgomery County and surrounding areas, with easy metro access and validated parking. This removes the hassle often associated with fine dining, allowing locals to enjoy the experience without logistical worries.

Moreover, the intimate Omakase and Kappo dining formats provide a highly personal and engaging experience. Sitting at the counter and interacting with the chefs as they prepare your meal transforms dinner into a form of entertainment and education. It fosters a deeper appreciation for the artistry involved in Japanese cuisine, making each visit unique. The availability of a dedicated vegan tasting menu also broadens its appeal, ensuring that a wider range of diners can enjoy this exceptional culinary journey.

In essence, Kobo is not just another restaurant; it’s a destination for those who appreciate the finest ingredients, masterful technique, and a truly engaging dining experience. For Maryland locals who seek to expand their culinary horizons and indulge in an unforgettable evening of modern Japanese excellence, Kobo stands out as a top recommendation. It's a place where you'll definitely want to come back again, as many satisfied customers attest.

Kobo

Inside Sushiko, 5455 Wisconsin Ave, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, USA