Ziona

Oct 2024

Gatekeep-Worthy Sushi of Carmel Even the standard sashimi sets felt like I was being treated to an omakase experience. I wanted to keep this place to myself so bad, but it's too good to not share with you all! Typically, reservations are recommended and VERY difficult to get as they don't answer the phone (it's an older Japanese man and woman, please don't spam them lol) I walked in at 5:30 pm on a Friday, and it was fairly quiet, no reservation needed :) Jyo Sashimi Platter 9/10: Wow, I think this was the $50 platter, but it felt very fair and premium. Delicious cuts of salmon, yellowtail, and a few fish that I didn't recognize. The salmon tartare style side was also DELICIOUS. I've never enjoyed sushi so much while having zero idea what I was eating. Uni Nigiri and Toro 9/10: Uni was a little bitter, not sure where it was sourced from, but it didn't taste like Santa Barbara's for sure! However, i got 1 piece of Toro and it was sooo rich and absolutely melted. Beer was also nice. See pics for all their menu :) Quaint interior with nice traditional-looking decor.

Sep 2024

We came here to see if their polarizing reviews are accurate but we didn't really see any of it. We made a reservation ahead of time and were seated promptly. The wife was polite to everyone in the restaurant. I like their overall decor because it's true to their name. I was pleasantly surprised they give out edamame - thought nobody does that anymore. We ordered omakase for two. It came with our favorite item uni. Would definitely come back! Side note: they do have a $30 min spend per person and a 0.25% assessment. Not crazy considering we're used to the "SF health mandate" but still surprising to see.

Aug 2024

Akaoni is the best sushi you will find. The family is the most professional, gracious artists practicing their craft of authentic food preparation and hospitality. That said, if you're looking for sushi rolls made with mayonnaise and a bunch of rice, and a rambunctious server who makes you feel as if they are your bar buddy, this is not your place. This place serves the highest quality food with the elegance of Japanese hospitality. They perfectly time each plate, allowing you to savor each bite. They are not crowding the place or turning tables. Make sure you have a reservation and plan ahead. My husband and I loved the dumplings, yellowtail gill, and the ten piece plate. We were full, but it was so good my husband ordered the yellowtail roll. Nothing was typical and everything delightful. An experienced to be cherished.