Banzai Sushi Denver

Banzai Sushi

Even though I have already found my personal favorite sushi restaurant, I bought the Denver Groupon for Banzai Sushi based on the exceptional online reviews via Google. Additionally, I visited their website to check out their signature sushi rolls and overall variety. When the website pops up, the first thing that grabbed my attention was the “Voted as top 3 sushi restaurant by channel 7’s A-List in 2007, 2008, and 2009.” I was sold and eager to check out a new sushi place that was sure to please. 

During the lunch hour, I noticed parking was available and free. The exterior appeared small and unattractive. However, my favorite sushi place is much the same, so I wasn’t too discouraged. As you walk in, you can see three small different seating arrangements: booths surrounding three perimeter walls, tables positioned medially, and bar along the fourth wall. The decorations were cute and pleasant, and the smell was neutral. The whole place was slightly less than half full, and so that was satisfying. With no offense intended, I do scope the place to see the variety of customers when it comes to sushi. In comparison to my favorite sushi place, Sushi Katsu, I didn’t see any foreigners at Banzai Sushi. Usually with my experience at sushi restaurants, if the crowd isn’t diverse, then the sushi seems “Americanized,” which isn’t necessarily bad, but it isn’t the type of sushi I enjoy. However, I did notice other items for lunch and dinner outside of just sushi. Their menu includes nearly 100 rolls with the top 20 outlined in the top section. Each roll is thoroughly described, so you’re not entirely surprised when you receive your meal. I love hot green tea with sushi and it tasted like the average green tea. Personally, I really like the green tea flavored with roasted brown rice…exceptional! Banzai Sushi’s didn’t seem to meet this standard.

While waiting for the sushi at the booth, I noticed an unusual bug running along the wall right next to me and cockroach was the first thought. Living in Colorado most of my life, I had never seen a bug quite like it. I’m used to spiders, ants, flies, but definitely not cockroaches. I actually had to search on my phone to see what type of bug it really was. Well, without a doubt it looked just like the cockroach images online. This experience was hands-down a first. 

After much contemplation, I decided to stay and try the sushi I already ordered. I was uncomfortable throughout the rest of my lunch and wanted nothing but to leave…stat! When the sushi arrived, I tasted each of the four rolls and was incredibly displeased. The fish didn’t smell bad but neither looked fresh. Usually, fresh sushi has a shiny-like appearance and isn’t dry looking. Also, the rolls weren’t tight and fell apart. This is a big no-no for me. I left in such a hurry that I don’t even remember the names of the sushi rolls I ordered. More than anything, I want to forget this experience. For those who do like Banzai Sushi, I encourage you to try other places because you WILL be impressed. At the moment, Sushi Katsu is by far my favorite. I will be visiting another Japanese restaurant called Japoix soon that is new to Denver. I’m anticipating this experience after Banzai Sushi.

Lesson learned: When going to a new sushi place or even any new place, start off ordering one thing like one sushi roll or appetizer. This way you can decide whether you want to stay and enjoy other menu selections. You can leave sooner if you’re dissatisfied and feel less cheated because you don’t spend as much money as you planned. My mistake was ordering the best-sounding four sushi rolls at one time, but I had high expectations like usual when I eat anywhere that has solid reviews.