Hana Zen: Satisfying Elegance and Comfort from the Interiors to the Food

The first thing anyone notices upon entering any of the two branches of Hana Zen, one in Union Square and the other in Pier 39 is that the place is quite spacious and very swanky. At first glance, you would already conclude that the Pier 39 location, with the cool breeze and the scintillating atmosphere is the perfect venue for an intimate dinner at the water front . But the entire atmosphere is something that won’t intimidate you just because of the classy interiors. The elegance of the restaurant extends to its patio where diners may also choose to sit in any weather as it is covered, where anyone from couples to large groups can enjoy dinner by the bay.

Not to be outdone is the Union Square restaurant, which has a more urban vibe to it. The design is spacious yet cozy, with booths that can sit couples or small groups, a bar and a main dining room which radiates a sexy warmth emanating from lanterns that play with the warm hues of the decor. There’s something elegant yet comfortable about the entire ambiance of the restaurant that it can be the perfect location for anything from a romantic dinner, a small after-work celebration or a casual dining treat with someone from outside San Francisco can be regaled with.

The interiors alone are a good reason to visit the place, and the parking is a zilch. Once inside, servers maintain a pleasant and perky manner. Once you’ve settled, of course there’s the issue of food. The food is a perfect complement to the entire atmosphere of the place – a seamless combination of comfort and elegance. The menu is prepared fresh, which is a must for Japanese food. The menu is a play of fresh local ingredients and tried and tested Japanese fare, which lends to a result of offerings that would satisfy any restaurant goer, no matter what the appetite or budget is.

Of course, as with any Japanese restaurant, sushi is the main draw of Hana Zen. Customers have time and again come back to Hana Zen and have poured praise on the freshness of the Japanese restaurant staple, Hana Zen style. No matter how early or how late you go to Hana Zen, expect the sushi to have that fresh and tangy flavor that will absolutely keep you coming back for more. Diners are also regaled with the extensive options for salads, appetizers, noodles, side dishes, and rolls. Particularly popular among the patrons of the restaurant are the Rainbow Roll, which contains five kinds of fish outside with avocado, and crab inside and the Dragon Roll, which contains a delectable and hearty combination of shrimp tempura, daikon, sprouts, tobiko, unagi, avocado, and unagi sauce.

For those who want to have a good time, there is no need to change venues as both Hana Zen restaurants have their own bar. The sake-infused cocktails are a sure hit among regulars and new visitors, so don’t miss a chance to have one!