Zilla Sake

Welcome, Oregon food enthusiasts! If your palate yearns for an authentic and high-quality sushi experience, complete with an impressive selection of sake, then Zilla Sake in Portland’s vibrant Alberta Arts District is a destination you absolutely must explore. More than just a sushi restaurant, Zilla Sake has carved out a unique niche as Portland's premier dedicated sake bar, evolving into a traditionally-focused, high-end sushi destination under the guidance of acclaimed Chef Kate Koo. This establishment offers a refined yet approachable setting for those who appreciate the artistry of Japanese cuisine and the nuanced world of sake.

Zilla Sake is celebrated for its commitment to excellence in both its sushi and sake offerings. Customers consistently rave about the "great" sushi selection and, even more importantly, the "quality even better!" This dedication to sourcing carefully chosen ingredients and preparing them with precision is evident in every bite. Beyond the exquisite food, Zilla Sake is truly a haven for sake aficionados. With one of the city's, and perhaps even the nation's, largest sake selections, including rare daiginjos from Hokkaido and local Oregon sake, it's a place where you can deepen your appreciation for this traditional Japanese beverage.

The staff at Zilla Sake are highly knowledgeable and friendly, providing invaluable assistance in navigating their "extensive Sake selection." Whether you're a novice interested in trying a sake flight or a seasoned connoisseur seeking a rare bottle, their guidance ensures a truly enriching experience. While one past reviewer noted some disappointment with service speed and pricing, the overwhelming sentiment points to a truly enjoyable visit for those who prioritize quality sushi and a vast sake array. Zilla Sake focuses on showcasing carefully sourced ingredients in straightforward preparations, designed to highlight their natural beauty and flavors, making it a standout choice for those seeking a genuine Japanese culinary journey in the heart of Portland.

Zilla Sake is ideally situated at 1806 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211, USA. This prime location places it right in the bustling and culturally rich Alberta Arts District, a neighborhood renowned for its unique blend of art galleries, independent shops, lively street art, and diverse culinary offerings. Being on NE Alberta Street means the restaurant is part of a vibrant community hub, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors exploring this dynamic part of Portland.

Regarding accessibility, Zilla Sake is generally convenient to reach from various points in the city. NE Alberta Street is a well-known thoroughfare, with multiple TriMet bus lines running along it or nearby, offering good public transportation options. For those driving, street parking is typically available in the surrounding area, though it's always advisable to allow a bit of extra time to find a spot, especially during peak dining hours or popular neighborhood events. The Alberta Arts District is also very pedestrian and bicycle-friendly, encouraging a leisurely stroll to the restaurant while enjoying the eclectic atmosphere of the area.

The restaurant's design contributes to its accessibility and ambiance. While it has a more intimate feel, its layout, which includes a chef's counter and a covered patio, offers various seating options. This thoughtful design, combined with its central location within a vibrant and easily navigable Portland neighborhood, ensures that Zilla Sake is an accessible and inviting destination for those seeking an elevated sushi and sake experience.

Services Offered:

• Dine-in service with options for seating at tables, the sushi counter for an up-close experience, or on their beautiful covered patio (weather permitting).
• A traditionally-focused sushi bar specializing in omakase (chef's tasting menu).
• A full à la carte menu featuring a wide selection of sushi, including nigiri, sashimi, and various maki rolls (thin, thick, uramaki, and specialty rolls).
• Small cooked dishes and appetizers such as salads (Hijiki Salad, Seaweed Salad, Cucumber Salad), Edamame, Agedashi Tofu, Gyoza, and Chicken Kara-Age.
• An extensive sake program, one of the largest in the U.S., featuring a diverse range of sakes including rare selections and local Oregon sake.
• Sake flights for guided tasting experiences.
• Expert staff assistance in navigating the sake selection.
• Takeout options are available for many menu items.
• Accepts reservations for both à la carte dining and omakase experiences, with a grace period for arrivals.
• Catering to special events and collaborations, often featuring guest chefs and unique culinary experiences (check website for current events).

Features / Highlights:

• Exceptional Sushi Quality: Highly praised for the freshness and superior quality of its sushi and sashimi.
• Extensive Sake Selection: Boasts one of the most comprehensive sake lists in the country, including rare and unique varieties.
• Sake Flights: Offers the opportunity to sample a curated selection of sakes.
• Knowledgeable and Friendly Staff: Staff are adept at guiding guests through the sake menu and providing excellent service.
• Traditionally-Focused Sushi Bar: Specializes in authentic preparations and techniques, with an emphasis on omakase.
• Carefully Sourced Ingredients: Focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients, including special overnight deliveries from Tokyo's famed Tsukiji Fish Market (now Toyosu).
• Intimate and Elegant Ambiance: Described as a "casual elegant" setting with a dimly-lit, "shotgun space" that adds to its unique charm.
• Chef's Counter Experience: Provides an opportunity for up-close views of the sushi chefs at work.
• Outdoor Patio Seating: Offers a covered patio for an enjoyable outdoor dining option.
• Located in the Vibrant Alberta Arts District: Situated in a lively neighborhood, perfect for combining a meal with exploring local art and shops.

Promotions or Special Offers:

While Zilla Sake is known for its high-quality offerings and unique sake program, specific ongoing daily promotions are not widely publicized in current public information. However, like many upscale and specialized dining establishments, they may offer unique experiences or events that could be considered special offers. Historically, Zilla Sake has been known to host:

• Sake Tastings and Pairings: Given their extensive sake selection, special tasting events, sometimes paired with specific sushi or food items, are a common feature.
• Omakase Experiences: While priced as a premium offering ($125-$150 per person), the omakase is a curated, multi-course tasting menu that offers an exceptional value for the quality and artistry involved.
• Collaborative Dinners: Zilla Sake occasionally participates in or hosts special culinary events with guest chefs, such as the recent WasabiFest PDX VIP Dinner, which are unique, ticketed experiences.
• Happy Hour: Although details might vary, older reviews suggest that Zilla Sake has offered happy hour deals in the past, including discounted cocktails and sake. It's advisable to check if this is still a current offering.

For the most current information on any promotions, special events, or happy hour details, it is highly recommended to contact Zilla Sake directly. You can reach them by phone at (503) 288-8372 or +1 503-288-8372. You can also visit their official website or social media channels, as these are the best sources for up-to-date announcements on unique dining opportunities.

Contact Information:

Address: 1806 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211, USA

Phone: (503) 288-8372

Mobile Phone: +1 503-288-8372

In conclusion, for locals in Oregon with a discerning taste for sushi and a keen interest in sake, Zilla Sake in Portland is a highly recommended destination. It’s more than just a place to eat; it’s an experience that celebrates the art of traditional Japanese cuisine and the rich diversity of sake. While some may find the pricing on the higher side, as one past customer noted it was "pricey," the consistent praise for the "great" sushi selection and even "better" quality, coupled with an "extensive Sake selection," truly highlights the value provided. This is a place for those who prioritize premium ingredients and an elevated dining journey.

The friendly and helpful staff, particularly in navigating the impressive sake list, ensures a welcoming and educational visit. Whether you're a sushi connoisseur or a curious newcomer to the world of sake, Zilla Sake offers an environment where you can learn and appreciate the finer points of Japanese culinary traditions. Its position in the vibrant Alberta Arts District makes it a fantastic choice for a date night, a special occasion, or simply when you want to treat yourself to some of the best sushi and sake Portland has to offer. For true enthusiasts, Zilla Sake is an unmissable part of Portland’s dynamic food scene.

Zilla Sake

1806 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211, USA