Washoku Guide
Cities/Philadelphia/Sushi/Zama
Philadelphia · Sushi · a la carte

Zama

Omakase sushi / Japanese fine diningNigiriSashimiSakeRittenhouse SquareBYOB

Founded in 2009 by Japanese-born chef Hiroyuki Tanaka — described by the Philadelphia Inquirer as 'one of Philadelphia's most venerated sushi chefs' — Zama continues under the ownership of his wife Shinobu Tanaka following Hiroyuki's passing in September 2024. The restaurant's commitment to impeccably sourced Japanese fish remains unchanged.

Price
¥¥¥
Area
Rittenhouse Square
Since
2009
Owner
Shinobu Tanaka
Zama — authentic omakase sushi / japanese fine dining restaurant in Philadelphia, Rittenhouse Square
Plate № 40
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About
Zama has held a special place in Philadelphia's Japanese dining landscape since 2009, when Japanese-born chef Hiroyuki Tanaka — who had trained at Genji, Morimoto, and Pod — opened this intimate Rittenhouse Square restaurant. Known for his meditative precision and unwavering commitment to seasonal Japanese fish, Tanaka was described by the Philadelphia Inquirer as 'one of Philadelphia's most venerated sushi chefs.' Following Hiroyuki's passing in September 2024, his wife Shinobu Tanaka continues as owner, with the restaurant's menu, quality, and spirit preserved. The intimate dining room, exceptional nigiri, and curated sake list draw a devoted following of food lovers who understand what genuine Japanese hospitality looks like.
Neighborhood & visiting

Zama sits in Rittenhouse Square, one of Philadelphia's neighborhoods where authentic Japanese kitchens have taken root. The house does not publish an online booking link; call ahead to secure a seat, especially on weekends. Check the posted hours before you go — traditional sushi restaurants often close between service periods.

Why it's on Washoku Guide
  • Legacy of Japanese-born master chef Hiroyuki Tanaka, one of Philadelphia's most revered sushi chefs
  • Intimate Rittenhouse Square setting with dedicated regulars who return for the consistency and care
  • Japanese family ownership continues under Shinobu Tanaka — the spirit and standards preserved
  • Curated sake list and impeccable fish sourcing that rivals restaurants at twice the price

Founding chef Hiroyuki Tanaka passed away September 29, 2024. Restaurant continues under ownership of his wife Shinobu Tanaka with full menu and quality preserved.

Links
Website →Map →Yelp →Tripadvisor →

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Frequently asked

About Zama

Is Zama an authentic omakase sushi / japanese fine dining restaurant in Philadelphia?
Yes — Zama is featured in Washoku Guide because it meets our authenticity standard for omakase sushi / japanese fine dining in Philadelphia: a kitchen grounded in Japanese technique, ingredients and preparation consistent with Japanese practice, and a focused sushi format.
Where is Zama located?
Zama is located at 128 S 19th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103, Philadelphia, USA in the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood.
Do I need a reservation at Zama?
Zama does not publish an online reservation link. Walk-ins may be possible, but for popular sushi restaurants in Philadelphia we recommend calling ahead.
What is the price range at Zama?
Zama sits in the ¥¥¥ price range — typical for omakase sushi / japanese fine dining of this format in Philadelphia.
Keep exploring
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