Address: 607 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3G3, Canada

Phone: +1 519 642 2558

Price Range: $$$$

Website: http://ozenlondon.ca/

Ozen Sushi

Ozen Sushi is a cozy little gem on Richmond Street that has carved a niche for itself in London's vibrant dining scene over the years. A modest, intimate setting greets you as you step in, with wooden interiors that exude a warm, almost log-cabin feel. Despite its small size, the two-floor setup manages to efficiently cater to a bustling clientele, making it a viable spot whether you’re dropping by on a weekday or weekend.

Bearing the hallmarks of both Japanese and Korean culinary traditions, Ozen Sushi offers a unique blend of dishes. Their menu is a delightful mix of sushi rolls, nigiri, Japanese standards, and Korean mains like bibimbap. One of the standout points is the incredible value they offer – the fish slices are generously thick, a pleasant surprise for sushi aficionados tired of the meager portions found elsewhere.

Starting with the sushi, the Osaka set and the assorted nigiri are sure bets. The rolls are perfectly balanced with a great filling-to-rice ratio, ensuring each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The Philadelphia roll is a fan-favorite, with a cream cheese filling that somehow elevates the sushi experience to a whole new level. On the more adventurous side, the Rocket #1 and Rocket #2 rolls bring something different to the table with their torched toppings and generous helping of spicy salmon, albacore tuna, and a delightful combination of garlic flakes and sweet onion.

For those keen on trying something other than sushi, the Katsu combo is a steal. This combo comes with meat, rice, salad, miso soup, three yam sushi, and two dumplings – all for a very reasonable price. It's particularly notable for those who enjoy a bit of variety in their meal. Another must-try dish is the tonkotsu ramen, a rich, comforting bowl made from pork bone broth, featuring tender slices of pork belly, shiitake mushrooms, a soft-boiled egg, bean sprouts, and green onions. Spicy ramen enthusiasts would do well to opt for the spicy version which adds an extra layer of warmth to the hearty broth.

The vegetable okonomiyaki is another highlight. Often compared to a savory pancake, it's surprisingly filling and packs a punch with its umami-rich flavors. Served hot and layered with a variety of toppings, it’s a true delight for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

Service at Ozen Sushi is generally efficient and friendly, though there have been instances of communication issues, likely exacerbated by the hustle and bustle during peak hours. The seating might feel a bit cramped during busy times, but the bustling atmosphere adds to the charm rather than detracts from it. If you want a quieter experience, visiting during off-peak hours might be a good idea.

A word of caution, though: while the sushi and many of the mains are reliably delicious, there have been a few misses. The agedashi tofu failed to impress with its overly thick batter and unsatisfactory texture. Some other dishes like the beef udon and tonkatsu ramen also had mixed reviews, with some finding the flavors lacking or not up to the usual standard. However, these instances seem to be few and far between, and the restaurant’s strengths significantly outweigh its occasional slip-ups.