Planning
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
oChef » Zushi Puzzle – San Francisco
Zushi Puzzle - San Francisco
Photo from Zushi Puzzle
Zushi Puzzle at a glance
San Francisco Cow Hollow
- 🍣 Japanese Restaurant
$$
Price per Person $81–$90
mentioned by 79 of the guests
#59 out of 2403 places to eat in San Francisco
#6 Japanese Restaurant out of 174 in San Francisco
Excellent
9 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
690
Reviews
92.9%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Chef's Omakase
- Quality Sushi
- Engaging Service
Frequently criticized
- Billing Concerns
- Value Inconsistencies
- Long Waits
The restaurant Zushi Puzzle, a delightful Japanese Restaurant in San Francisco’s vibrant Cow Hollow neighborhood, invites you to a memorable dining experience. You will discover a menu rich with healthy options, perfect for a casual yet trendy meal.
Whether you are looking for a cozy dinner spot or a quick lunch, this establishment offers a welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy small plates alongside a selection of wine and beer.
Overview: Introducting Zushi Puzzle
Zushi Puzzle offers a truly distinctive dining experience, largely shaped by the artistry of Chef Roger . Guests consistently praise the high-quality fish and the personalized journey he crafts, making each visit memorable.
The professional service further elevates the meal, ensuring a welcoming and engaging atmosphere. However, some diners have noted concerns regarding billing issues and occasional extended waiting periods.
While the overall culinary and service aspects shine brightly, these points suggest that clarity on pricing and managing expectations around timing could enhance the experience for all.
Excellent
9
out of 10
690
Reviews
92.9%
Satisfaction
35
negative
14
neutral
641
positive
Zushi Puzzle earns an impressive overall Restaurant Score of 9 , reflecting an excellent dining proposition, supported by an equally strong Customer Satisfaction of 92.9% . This high approval is built on a foundation of 641 positive sentiments against just 35 negative ones, across 690 customer observations.
The culinary journey stands out with Food scoring 9.1 , highlighting its exceptional quality and innovative approach. Service also shines at 9.3 , indicating highly attentive and engaging staff interactions.
The Ambience is rated a good 8.6 , contributing to a pleasant setting. However, Value registers an average 6.9 , suggesting that while the experience is highly regarded, some find the pricing less consistent with expectations.
What people like
- Chef Roger's expertise
- Exceptional sushi quality
- Personalized omakase experience
What people don't like
- Billing discrepancies
- Inconsistent value perception
- Service wait times
For those seeking a premium sushi experience guided by a master chef, Zushi Puzzle comes highly recommended. The 9.4 recommendation score underscores its appeal for an intimate and high-quality culinary adventure, particularly if you secure a spot at the sushi bar.
Be prepared for a unique and engaging meal, but it’s wise to clarify pricing, especially for omakase, to avoid surprises. While the food and service are consistently lauded, managing expectations around potential wait times and value perception will ensure a more satisfying visit.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Zushi Puzzle
Food (9.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 99% of the guests
Wow, when it comes to the food here, youre in for a treat! With an excellent score of 9.1 and customer satisfaction soaring at 94.9%, its clear that diners are consistently blown away. Out of 413 remarks, a whopping 392 rave about the incredible sushi, unique Omakase, and the exceptional quality of ingredients, especially the freshest fish.
However, it's not entirely perfect. A small number of 16 comments mentioned some concerns, like sushi being mediocre or poorly presented, and some hand rolls turning out soggy. A few also found the sauces or rice to be a bit bland, or the soft shell crab overly salted.
Food
413
Reviews
94%
Satisfaction
16
negative
5
neutral
392
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Exceptional sushi quality
- Unique Omakase experience
- Fresh, aged fish
What people don't like
- Mediocre sushi presentation
- Soggy hand rolls
- Bland sauces or rice
Often praised
- fishHe would teach you how to eat sushi like a professional and explain about aged fish. The fish was so fresh, sourced from all over the world, including Korean Halibut, Japanese scallops, New Zealand salmon, Santa Barbara 888 Uni, and Blue fin tuna from Spain. I tasted his wasabi green tea ice cream, popcorn ice cream, and wagyu A5 torched beef sushi – so different.
- sushiMy experience at Chef Roger’s sushi bar was truly a singular experience. I would go as far as saying that it was the best sushi I’ve ever had in the US. The remarkably high quality fish and creative dishes contributed to an overall lovely time.
- foodThis is one of those places I would rather keep to myself — I honestly don’t want to write a review and lead people to this hole-in-the-wall slice of perfection. However, after an amazing omakase over 3+ hours, Rodger mentioned that post-Covid business has been slow to recover, so here I am.
- omakaseThis is one of those places I would rather keep to myself — I honestly don’t want to write a review and lead people to this hole-in-the-wall slice of perfection. However, after an amazing omakase over 3+ hours, Rodger mentioned that post-Covid business has been slow to recover, so here I am. This unassuming restaurant is built around Rodger, sitting at the back counter.
- omakase experienceMy experience at Zushi Puzzle was amazing! I highly recommend reserving a spot at the bar to have Chef Roger prepare an awesome omakase experience. The fish is of such high quality, and you get to experience a lot of new types of fish.
- OmakaseMy experience at this restaurant was simply the best sushi experience this side of the Pacific. The Omakase with Chef Roger is the top culinary experience in SF. It's simple, quality-forward, and to the point, focusing on the best ingredients and stellar hospitality.
- sushi experienceMy experience at this restaurant was an elevated dining sushi experience that used to be hard to get into. It's a small place, as is typical.
- qualityWe were able to get seated right away without reservations, and the service was spectacular. The sushi was insanely good quality and well-priced. While the service wasn't super fast due to having only one chef who was also handling an omakase seating, we finished our entire meal within 1.
- FoodFood:5
- Omakase experienceshift the baseline of an Omakase experience for you
Frequently criticized
- fishMy experience at the restaurant was that the rolls were pretty standard. I felt some rolls didn’t have much fish in it.
- sushiSushi was mediocre and poorly presented. Slapped together and scattered.
- FoodFood:1
- amount of foodthe amount of food. Felt a little too full
- foodthe food just isn’t very good
- hand rollsHand rolls were soggy
- omasake experienceThe other couple that had randomly come in (having literally just gotten off a plane from Europe & looking for quick sushi) had the exact same shock. If cost is not a factor & you want a special experience - I don’t believe you will be disappointed, but if you get encouraged to start trying things and aren’t given a menu be aware that you will get whatever produce needs to be used by the restaurant as an omasake experience and charged the very top market prices.
- other sushisI let him guide my meal throughout the evening, and he introduced me to new ways of eating sushi and new flavors, creating a complete new experience. I 'hate' Roger because he ruined all the other sushis I used to think were great. So, go to Zushi Puzzle with caution, because there is no way back.
- riceRice was blah
- saladThe salad, instead of ginger dressing, had bottled ranch dressing. couldn't eat it.
If youre seeking an extraordinary culinary journey with top-tier sushi and a unique Omakase experience, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that a few minor inconsistencies in presentation or side elements might pop up, but theyre rare.
Service (9.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 81% of the guests
When it comes to service, this place truly shines with an excellent score of 9.3 and a stellar 95.1% customer satisfaction! Based on 155 positive remarks out of 163 total, guests rave about the excellent service and hospitality, often highlighting Chef Roger's personal attention and guidance as a memorable experience. It sounds like a truly interactive and thoughtful dining journey.
However, a handful of 7 negative comments point to some areas for improvement. A few guests experienced long waiting time and unfriendly service, with one even mentioning a concerning attitude regarding billing. While these instances are rare, they suggest occasional hiccups in an otherwise outstanding service record.
Service
163
Reviews
95%
Satisfaction
7
negative
1
neutral
155
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Chef Roger's guidance
- Personalized attention
- Exceptional hospitality
What people don't like
- Long waiting times
- Unfriendly service
- Billing attitude
Often praised
- Chef RogerMy son and I had a remarkable dinner at Zushi Puzzle. Chef Roger is incredibly talented, preparing premium ingredients perfectly and taking you on a journey with them. He even converted me on uni, which was the only thing I said I didn't like out of the ocean.
- RogerCome on a weeknight, like a Monday or Tuesday, and enjoy the Echigo beer. Let Roger create the experience for you; he sources the freshest, most interesting, and unique fish from Korea, Scotland, and Japan. I’ve had great omakase experiences in LA, Seattle, DC, Miami, and NY, and Zushi Puzzle in San Francisco is the best.
- serviceIf you find yourself in San Francisco craving sushi, the choice is clear. You can sit back and devour the best cuisine with exceptional top-tier professional service. Highly recommended, there is no substitute.
- ServiceRoger is a true artist, and the sushi here is the best you will have in the USA, period. The dine-in service for dinner was excellent, and the price per person was $100+.
- chefI had prob the best omakase experience I’ve ever had. The fish was of incredibly high quality & tender, with ingenious flavor combinations, all handed to you casually by the chef. The vibe felt like a high-end dive bar, with the bar only seating 8.
- staffRoger and the rest of the staff are incredibly loving and friendly
- conversationgreat conversation as well, Roger is very knowledgeable
- Chef RodgerChef Rodger was incredible - he really took the time to explain
- JohnJohn was our server and he was kind and gracious
- RodgerMy friends and I had a fantastic omakase experience. Rodger was fantastic, and the food was well worth the experience.
Frequently criticized
- ServiceService:1
- apologiesI am an experienced traveller and foodie and was completely shocked by the attitude: I was given a 155 USD bill instead of 89 USD. And was not even offered any apologies! Absolutely no go place - they thought we didn't understand anything, and we literally just put together the food we ordered.
- attitudeThe bills are not matching the prices at this place! I am an experienced traveller and foodie and was completely shocked by the attitude: I was given a 155 USD bill instead of 89 USD. And was not even offered any apologies!
- serviceUnfriendly service
- share bowlRequested a share bowl and it never came
- waiterwaiter says not done
- waiting timetime waiting was so long, I stay there more than 2 hours
If youre looking for an unforgettable dining experience driven by exceptional personal service, this spot is definitely worth trying. The overwhelming positive feedback, especially concerning Chef Rogers interaction, suggests you're in for a treat, despite a few isolated reports of wait times.
Ambience (8.6 out of 10)
mentioned by 45% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot truly shines, boasting a good score of 8.6 and an impressive 93.2% customer satisfaction! Out of 74 comments, a whopping 69 rave about the vibrant atmosphere. Guests particularly love the interactive sushi bar and chef's counter experience, often highlighting the lively vibe and FUN conversations that make for a truly special experience.
However, a few of the 3 negative remarks touch on minor points like parking being a bit tricky or the decor feeling a tad dated. While the overall Atmosphere is overwhelmingly celebrated, one isolated opinion did rate it low, suggesting it might not be for everyone seeking a super glamorous setting.
Ambience
74
Reviews
93%
Satisfaction
3
negative
2
neutral
69
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Sushi bar experience
- Interactive chef's counter
- Fun, lively atmosphere
What people don't like
- Dated decor
- Difficult parking
Often praised
- atmosphereI would recommend it for both regular sushi and Omakase. You will feel like you are at home while simultaneously being with an expert. The fish is fresh and well made.
- sushi barIt’s not overly glamorous, but man, is it a good time with the BEST and highest quality fish and meat. Sit at the sushi bar and let Roger guide you on this incredible experience. It isn’t cheap, but again, it is the highest quality fish you can ask for, and there is a lot of it.
- experienceone of the best nights (food and experience)
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- barRoger always provided a familiar and fun atmosphere, allowing us to try different dishes according to our taste and learn a lot about Japanese Cuisine while dining with him. I would highly recommend eating at the bar.
- dining experiencethe single greatest dining experience of my life
- placeThe sushi, the place, and Roger are incredibe.
- sushi counterSit at the sushi counter and enjoy a great omakase experience
- FUNthis was the most FUN I've had
- adventureChef Roger leads you on an adventure complete with story time
Frequently criticized
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:1
- decordecor looks like it’s stuck in the 80’s
- parkingSomewhat difficult to find parking
If youre seeking an interactive, fun, and engaging dining experience, especially at the sushi bar or chefs counter, this place is a must-try. While the decor might not be ultra-modern and parking can be a slight challenge, the lively atmosphere and personal connection with the chef more than make up for it.
Value (6.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 24% of the guests
When it comes to value, many diners feel theyre getting a fantastic deal, with a solid 6.9 score. Guests frequently rave about the experience being worth every penny and highlight very reasonable and well priced options, even calling it the best value sushi theyve had. Out of 40 comments, 25 lean positive, suggesting a generally good perception.
However, the customer satisfaction sits at a more mixed 62.5%, indicating some bumps in the road. A few guests were quite surprised by the final bill, noting that menu prices didnt always align with what they paid, sometimes leading to a steep price. ' There were 9 negative remarks, often about unexpected costs.
Value
40
Reviews
62%
Satisfaction
9
negative
6
neutral
25
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth every penny
- Very reasonable prices
- Best value sushi
What people don't like
- Unexpected high bill
- Prices not matching
- Steep final cost
Often praised
- priceI discovered a newfound appreciation for fish varieties I would typically overlook, thanks to the exceptional quality, meticulous preparation, and Chef Roger's expertise. The overall experience was truly worth the price, leaving me thoroughly satisfied.
- pricesThe remarkably high quality fish and creative dishes contributed to an overall lovely time. Considering all this, the very reasonable prices were a pleasant surprise. I couldn’t recommend it any more highly!
- valuethe value Zushi Puzzle offers would be hard to compete with
- fairly pricedFairly priced
- moneyWorth any money
- overall experienceThe overall experience was truly worth the price
- price per personPrice per person:$100+
- price tagHe was very friendly and warm. The high price tag was worth the crazy amount of fish we ate. We were told to wave our napkins in surrender if we couldn’t eat any more, and no one did.
- reasonable priceMy experience at the restaurant was fantastic, offering both omakase and regular menu options. The regular menu features fresh fish at a very reasonable price. For those seeking unique flavors, the omakase presents delicious choices like aged toro.
- value sushibest value sushi I’ve had in the city
Frequently criticized
- billBE AWARE! The bills are not matching the prices at this place! I am an experienced traveller and foodie and was completely shocked by the attitude: I was given a 155 USD bill instead of 89 USD.
- 155 USD billgiven 155 USD bill instead of 89 USD
- inexpensiveNot an inexpensive
- market pricesThe other couple that had randomly come in (having literally just gotten off a plane from Europe & looking for quick sushi) had the exact same shock. If cost is not a factor & you want a special experience - I don’t believe you will be disappointed, but if you get encouraged to start trying things and aren’t given a menu be aware that you will get whatever produce needs to be used by the restaurant as an omasake experience and charged the very top market prices.
- menu pricesHad I been booking for a special occasion - this would have been an ‘experience’. However, I thought I was booking a reasonably priced sushi restaurant (based on the menu prices online) on a random Thursday night while visiting SF & got completely shocked by a $360 bill for two (not including an expected tip). The other couple that had randomly come in (having literally just gotten off a plane from Europe & looking for quick sushi) had the exact same shock.
- pricethe price was steep when the bill came
- reasonably priced sushi restaurantHad I been booking for a special occasion - this would have been an ‘experience’. However, I thought I was booking a reasonably priced sushi restaurant (based on the menu prices online) on a random Thursday night while visiting SF & got completely shocked by a $360 bill for two (not including an expected tip). The other couple that had randomly come in (having literally just gotten off a plane from Europe & looking for quick sushi) had the exact same shock.
If youre looking for an experience that many consider worth every penny and are prepared for a potentially premium price, this spot could be a great fit. Just be sure to clarify menu prices upfront to avoid any surprises on the bill' and ensure your expectations align with the final cost.
How are the prices at Zushi Puzzle?
On average, you’ll spend around 89 per person – from 79 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $81–$90 category. For a Japanese Restaurant in San Francisco, that’s definitely on the higher-end side.
Looking at the full picture, most diners are actually enjoying a premium experience, with the majority spending 101 $ or more.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 79 reviews.
Comparing value for money against similar restaurants in San Francisco.
Considering most diners are opting for the premium experience, we think the pricing feels fair for a high-quality Japanese restaurant in San Francisco. It’s an investment in a memorable meal!
Customer Reviews: what people think about Zushi Puzzle
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
2
Disappointing Food Quality
I really wanted to like this small, family-run place. However, there was one significant problem: the food just wasn’t very good, or frankly, good at all. The fish could have come from any chain supermarket; it was edible and probably fine if cooked, but raw?
No. The way it was cut and served didn't help. The sauces were blah, and the rice was also blah. Sorry.
- food2
- fish2
- sauces2
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
7
Shocking Bill for Sushi Experience
Make sure that you know what this costs before booking. Had I been booking for a special occasion - this would have been an ‘experience’. However, I thought I was booking a reasonably priced sushi restaurant (based on the menu prices online) on a random Thursday night while visiting SF & got completely shocked by a $360 bill for two (not including an expected tip).
The other couple that had randomly come in (having literally just gotten off a plane from Europe & looking for quick sushi) had the exact same shock. If cost is not a factor & you want a special experience - I don’t believe you will be disappointed, but if you get encouraged to start trying things and aren’t given a menu be aware that you will get whatever produce needs to be used by the restaurant as an omasake experience and charged the very top market prices.
- special occasion8
- bill2
- reasonably priced sushi restaurant2
- menu prices2
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
10
Exceptional Sushi Experience with Personal Touch
My partner and I had a wonderful evening at Zushi Puzzle! I highly recommend taking a seat at the bar. Roger, the host, personally attends to each guest and their dining preferences, serving as much as you desire or stopping when you say so.
He explains the background of each course, including the origin of the fish, how it's prepared, and importantly, how sushi is traditionally eaten. As the restaurant was relatively empty, we were fortunate to have a private experience. The quality of the fish was truly excellent – by far the best fish we've ever had.
According to Roger, much of it is imported directly from Japan and around the world. The differences between the salmon varieties were particularly impressive (as was the Wagyu, of course!). They work with many flavors to achieve a perfect umami taste.
Fantastic! We can also recommend the house sake and beer; both harmonize perfectly. We were thrilled and can only recommend the restaurant to everyone.
Thank you for the great experience.
- fish quality10
- best fish10
- salmon varieties9
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
10
Spectacular Sushi and Service!
I randomly found this place with great reviews and popped in at 7 pm on a Saturday, wanting to escape the crowds at Fisherman's Wharf. We were able to get seated right away without reservations, and the service was spectacular. The sushi was insanely good quality and well-priced.
While the service wasn't super fast due to having only one chef who was also handling an omakase seating, we finished our entire meal within 1. 5 hours, which we felt was normal speed. I would absolutely come back and recommend this place!
- service10
- sushi10
- quality10
Price per Person
- $61–$70
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
Noise Level
- Quiet
2
Disappointing Experience, Mediocre Food
My experience at this restaurant was disappointing. We had heard good things and can only assume there are new owners. The restaurant was nearly empty at 7: 30 pm on a Thursday.
The sushi was mediocre and poorly presented, appearing slapped together and scattered. The salad, which should have had ginger dressing, instead came with bottled ranch, making it inedible. The soft shell crab was so overly-salted it was inedible, and the tofu was covered in a corn starch sauce.
We rarely rate restaurants poorly, but this was a bad experience.
- sushi2
- salad1
- soft shell crab1
What Zushi Puzzle offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Wine
- Beer
- Small plates
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Table service
- Lunch
- Dessert
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Paid street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Trendy
FAQs
What kind of dining experience can you expect at Zushi Puzzle in San Francisco?
At Zushi Puzzle, you can look forward to a cozy, casual, and trendy atmosphere perfect for dinner or lunch. They offer table service and a variety of small plates, along with healthy options, wine, and beer. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxed meal in Cow Hollow.
Does Zushi Puzzle offer accessible options and accept reservations?
Yes, Zushi Puzzle is committed to accessibility, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and restroom. For your convenience, they accept reservations, and dinner reservations are recommended. You can pay using credit cards, debit cards, or NFC mobile payments.
What is the overall customer sentiment for Zushi Puzzle?
Zushi Puzzle enjoys excellent customer satisfaction, with a Restaurant Score of 9 and Customer Satisfaction at 92.9% . This is largely driven by exceptional Food (9.1) and Service (9.3), complemented by a good Ambience (8.6), though Value (6.9) is considered average.
What makes the food at Zushi Puzzle stand out?
The food at Zushi Puzzle is highly praised for its exceptional quality fish, sourced globally, and Chef Roger’s artistic preparation. Diners frequently highlight the unique omakase experience, where the chef guides them through creative dishes and new flavors.
Are there any common concerns or issues reported by diners?
Some diners have reported issues with billing discrepancies and a perception of inconsistent value, particularly with omakase pricing. There have also been mentions of unfriendly service and extended waiting times on occasion.