ZipPicks Awards
Best Sushi in Flushing
Best Japanese in Flushing
Best Sushi Rolls in Flushing
Best Tasting Menus in Flushing
Best Chef's Table Restaurants in Flushing
Best Date Night Sushi in Flushing
Master Critic Review
Kaizen: Omakase & Hand Roll Sushi Restaurant
8.8
Kaizen is a modern omakase and hand-roll bar tucked just off Farrington Street, known for tightly curated nigiri flights and made-to-order temaki. Guests come for pristine fish, a long counter, and a vibe that feels closer to a sleek city bar than a traditional Flushing storefront.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro hand roll, Salmon ikura hand roll, Chef’s omakase nigiri set
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: A focused omakase and hand-roll counter where seasonal cuts and temaki are the star.
Who should go: Sushi fans who prioritize fish quality over volume
When to visit: Prime-time dinner seatings with a reservation
What to order: Omakase nigiri set, toro hand roll, salmon ikura hand roll
Insider tip: Sit at the counter so the chef can pace a personalized omakase flight.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Farrington and adjacent blocks is limited during peak dinner hours; meters run late. Nearby garages on Roosevelt Avenue usually have openings after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning polished; denim is fine, but most guests dress slightly elevated for counter dining.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzy but controlled. Easy to hold a date-night conversation, especially at the counter.
Weekend wait: 25–45 minutes for counter spots without a reservation; tables can be longer depending on party size.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, though the counter may fill during early afternoon omakase seatings.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable—vegetable hand rolls, tamago, and a few seasonal sides.
Vegan options: Very limited—seaweed salads or vegetable rolls only; omakase is not vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Manageable with communication; many nigiri pieces are naturally gluten-free, but request gluten-free soy and avoid sauced items.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its sleek counter setup, attentive pacing, and modern vibe make it intimate without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes; walk-ins are seated based on counter turnover. Arrive early or close to opening to maximize chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—compact seating, omakase pacing, and a quieter, adult-oriented vibe make it better suited for teens and older.
Best For
Better for: High-quality nigiri and hand rolls in a stylish, modern setting without the price commitment of premium omakase rooms.
Skip if: You want extensive cooked dishes, large combo platters, or a more traditional, family-style sushi experience.