top of page
Search

Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar Review: San Francisco’s Plant-Based Sushi Revolution

  • Writer: Corey Jones
    Corey Jones
  • 12 minutes ago
  • 3 min read

Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar (370 14th St., San Francisco) isn’t just the best vegan sushi in the Bay Area—it’s a Michelin-recognized culinary rebellion that proves plant-based dining can be luxurious, sustainable, and unforgettable. Founded by ocean activist Kin Lui and restaurateur Ray Wang, this Mission District izakaya reimagines Japanese classics with 100% plant-based ingredients, saving 200+ gallons of water per roll compared to traditional sushi.


Why Shizen Stands Out

  • Only vegan sushi bar in SF with Michelin recognition

  • Co-founded by Tataki Sushi (America’s first sustainable sushi pioneers)

  • $19 specialty rolls that outshine fish-based counterparts

  • 100% plant-based ramen, nigiri, and izakaya small plates


The Mission: Saving Oceans, One Roll at a Time

Shizen’s fully plant-based model directly combats overfishing and seafood industry waste. Their "tofuna" (chili-tofu "tuna") and eggplant "unagi" nigiri aren’t just clever—they’re ethical statements wrapped in artful presentations. As Kin Lui says: "We’re rebuilding sushi culture to honor the ocean, not exploit it."


The Dining Experience: What to Expect

Reservations & Logistics

  • Book 3+ weeks ahead (pre-pandemic waits spanned months)

  • Limited parking in this downtown SF location—arrive 20 mins early

  • Takeout available


The Space

A sleek, bamboo-accented izakaya blending Tokyo minimalism with Californian warmth. The open kitchen lets diners watch chefs torch miso-glazed eggplant nigiri and plate flaming "Candlestick" rolls.


Must-Order Dishes

Starters & Small Plates

  • Bean Curd Katsu ($14): Panko-crusted tofu with house-made katsu sauce—"The best vegan katsu I’ve ever had"

  • Shizen Shiitake ($14): Tempura-battered mushrooms stuffed with crab-less tofu and matcha salt

  • Da Kine Ceviche ($15): Konjac "scallops" in jalapeño-citrus broth with corn chips (a Hawaiian-Japanese fusion)


Nigiri (2pc/$10)

  • Tomato Nigiri: Torched ginger-soy tomatoes mimic fatty tuna’s melt

  • Eggplant Nigiri: Skip if you dislike soft textures—some find it "soggy" despite the saikyo miso glaze


Specialty Rolls ($19-20)

  • Body & Soul: Tempura spicy tofu + shichimi togarashi (our #1 pick)

  • Hidden Agenda: Tempura eggplant, bell peppers, and garlic aioli—"All my favorites in one roll"

  • Candlestick: Flaming presentation with spicy tofu and seaweed pearls


Ramen ($17-18)

  • Spicy Garlic Miso: Rich, bold broth with bean curd chashu and grilled mushrooms

  • Shio: Lighter but intricate—perfect for soy-sensitive diners


Desserts

  • Matcha Ice Cream + Brownie: Decadent yet refreshing

  • Rotating weekly—ask servers for seasonal specialties


Honest Critiques: Hits & Misses at Shizen Vegan Sushi Bar


The Hits Some dishes at Shizen aren’t just good—they’re revelatory. The gyoza vanished from our table faster than we could snap a photo, their crispy wrappers giving way to perfectly seasoned fillings. Then came the bean curd katsu, a dish so masterfully crafted that it made us question why we ever craved pork cutlet in the first place. And yes, the Body & Soul roll lives up to its hype (and its $20 price tag), with layers of umami, crunch, and smoky-sweet flair that justified every bite.


The Misses Not every experiment lands flawlessly. The eggplant nigiri fell flat—served too cold with a texture that lacked the silkiness or char we’d hoped for. The tomato nigiri intrigued us, but it felt more like a one-time curiosity than a must-repeat order. We also noticed that while the staff is wonderfully accommodating about allergies, gluten-free options feel limited compared to the menu’s overall creativity.


A few uneven bites aside, Shizen’s triumphs far outweigh its stumbles—proof that plant-based sushi can dazzle even the most skeptical palate.


Final Verdict

For vegans: This is your Michelin-worthy holy grail. For sushi purists: The textural wizardry (like pumpkin tempura "crab") will convert skeptics. For everyone: Shizen proves plant-based dining can be playful, luxurious, and profound.


Pro Tips:

  1. Order takeout if you can’t snag a reservation.

  2. Skip eggplant nigiri—opt for avocado or shiitake instead.

  3. Body & Soul + Hidden Agenda rolls are must-tries.

bottom of page