Located in the heart of Palo Alto, Kanji Sushi & Ramen is a hidden gem. The restaurant serves fan favorites while adding its own creative twist to classic dishes. With something for every palate, Kanji brings in new customers eager to explore flavorful and fun offerings.
Salmon Jalepeño ($14): 9/10
This standout dish features four thinly cut slices of salmon, each topped with a slice of jalapeño, drizzled in a tangy sauce. The salmon is silky and rich without being overly fishy. The depth of the sauce, combined with a touch of spice from the jalapeño, creates a vibrant, spicy-salty balance that still lets the freshness of the salmon shine. This is a must-try dish for any customer.
Pork Gyoza ($9): 7/10
Crispy and satisfying, the pork gyoza delivers a solid flavor, especially when paired with their tangy soy sauce. However, compared to other appetizers on the menu, this option lacks uniqueness. Given the variety of more creative starters the restaurant provides, this dish feels less essential, especially for those who eat sushi regularly.
Miso Soup ($3): 6/10
The miso soup falls short of expectations. It comes in a small portion, lacks depth of flavor, and contains few pieces of tofu—one of the key ingredients. With so many more compelling starters on the menu, this dish also doesn’t stand out.
49er Sushi Roll ($18): 10/10
This roll hits all the right notes, combining crab, salmon, and lemon all into one perfectly balanced bite. The thin slice of lemon on top of the salmon adds a refreshing brightness to the roll, enhancing the natural flavor of the fish. The citrus and salty combination makes this a true star of the menu, and worth the expensive price. This roll is perfect for those looking for something fun yet familiar.
Bento Box ($28): 8/10
The bento box offers a satisfying and well-rounded meal. Ours includes spicy chicken, white rice, and two sushi rolls—avocado and California. It provides a great way to sample multiple dishes without ordering too much, and ensures a diverse, complete dining experience. A bento box is the perfect order for those who want variety in one convenient plate.
