Washington D.C. · Sushi · a la carte
Kaz Sushi Bistro
Freestyle Japanese sushiJapanese-ownedFarragutFugu licensedOsaka-trained
Chef-owner Kaz Okochi trained in Osaka before refining his skills under Japanese mentors at Sushiko DC, then opened Kaz Sushi Bistro in 1999 with a personal philosophy he calls 'freestyle Japanese cuisine.' Located just five blocks from the White House, the restaurant blends traditional Japanese technique with Western and global ingredients in ways that remain distinctly Japanese at the core.
- Price
- ¥¥¥
- Area
- Golden Triangle / Farragut
- Since
- 1999
- Chef
- Kaz Okochi
Plate № 22
About
Kaz Okochi arrived from Osaka and honed his craft at Sushiko under Japanese mentors before striking out on his own with Kaz Sushi Bistro in 1999. His 'freestyle Japanese' approach — which he coined to describe cooking that respects Japanese fundamentals while drawing on world ingredients — quickly attracted a devoted downtown following and multiple RAMMY Award nominations. Okochi is one of only a handful of DC chefs licensed to prepare fugu (blowfish), which he serves as a seasonal special. The menu spans creative nigiri, izakaya-style small plates, and thoughtful seasonal specials, all executed with the precision of a formally trained Japanese chef.
Why it's on Washoku Guide
- Osaka-trained chef with 25+ years in DC — one of the longest-running Japanese owner-operated restaurants in the capital.
- Rare fugu license: try blowfish legally and safely in downtown DC, seasonally available.
- 'Freestyle Japanese' menu seamlessly merges Japanese craft with global influences for a singular dining voice.
- Steps from the White House in the Golden Triangle — ideal for power-lunch sushi of genuine Japanese origin.
Confirmed authentic: Japanese-owned and led (Kaz Okochi, Osaka-trained). Founded 1999.
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