Jerry C
Google
Sushi Ai in Redwood City is a hidden gem that masterfully showcases the art of omakase, uniting superior technique, fresh ingredients, and a warm, understated ambiance.
Ambiance & Décor
You'll notice the elegantly minimalist interior inside—warm earthy tones, clean lines, and sleek wood accents. The sushi bar commands center stage, lined with comfortable chairs that let you watch the chef's every precise movement. Off to the side, a few intimate tables are slightly recessed for those craving a more private dining experience. Soft, ambient lighting blankets the space in a serene glow, lending a calm and meditative atmosphere that sharpens your focus on the craftsmanship unfolding before you.
A particularly striking feature is the dry-aging fish cabinet displayed in the center. Its sleek, stainless-steel design contrasts beautifully with the room's natural palette. Through its glass door, you can see carefully hung fillets suspended at precisely measured intervals. This dramatic focal point is more than just décor: it's a conversation-starting testament to Sushi Ai's dedication to quality. You'll soon realize the cabinet's contents are the key to the restaurant's deep, umami-rich flavors.
Omakase Highlights
Sushi Ai is known for dry-aging most fish, intensifying flavor, and imparting a satisfyingly concentrated richness. From delicate Kasugodai (young snapper) to buttery Buri (winter yellowtail), each piece arrives with an extra layer of umami that typical fresh cuts can't match.
Among the many memorable courses, two truly stand out:
Iwashi (Sardine): Rare to find on standard menus, this sardine is a revelation. The dry-aging process enhances its natural oiliness and adds a clean, briny depth perfectly balanced by the sushi rice.
Zuke Chu Toro (Soy-Cured Medium Fatty Tuna): The soy cure deepens the tuna's innate richness, bathing each bite in layers of savory goodness. Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and flavor are unforgettable.
That's not to say the other pieces aren't equally impressive. Whether striped jack, Kawahagi (triggerfish), or Bafun uni from Hokkaido, every bite boasts a distinct character and remarkable freshness. The result is an omakase journey that feels both curated and deeply personal.
Sake Menu
While the sake list is relatively small, it's meticulously curated. Each bottle has been selected to pair seamlessly with the menu's flavor profiles, from crisp, floral notes that brighten the richer cuts to more robust offerings that match the deeper umami of aged fish. Don't hesitate to ask the staff for guidance—they're incredibly knowledgeable and excited to help you find the proper pour.
A La Carte Options
Beyond the omakase, Sushi Ai offers a short but thoughtful array of a la carte dishes. The Shirayaki (Fresh Water Eel) is reputed to shine with natural sweetness—though I didn't get to try it this time, it's already on my list for a future visit.
I did, however, indulge in the A5 Kagoshima Wagyu. At $18, it offers an approachable way to taste true Wagyu luxury. The beef practically melts on the tongue, delivering a decadent moment that beautifully complements (or tops off) your sushi-focused meal.
Overall Impression
Sushi Ai has carved out a distinctive place in the Redwood City dining scene with its serene atmosphere, eye-catching dry-aging cabinet, and dedication to flavor-enhancing techniques. The dry-aged omakase unlocks new depths in familiar fish varieties, and the small but thoughtful sake menu balances each bite harmoniously. Whether you come for the chef's inspired omakase or to sample stellar A5 Wagyu, you'll leave with a newfound appreciation for sushi's art—and the science—. Highly recommended for anyone seeking a refined, uniquely flavorful experience.