Sushi Kodawari — Restaurant in Kansas City

We were pleasantly surprised to discover such an outstanding dining experience in Kansas City—one we’d typically expect to find in larger cities like San Francisco, L.A., Chicago, or NYC. While we are more familiar with a traditional Kaiseki dinner, the Omakase selection by Chef Karson was a welcome change, prepared with passion, precision, commitment, and attention to detail—truly living up to its name, "the pursuit of perfection."

Upon studying the menu courses, we quickly picked out what we assumed would be our favorites. However, by the end of the evening, our list had been completely reshuffled! While the Uni (Sea Urchin) and the fattier Bluefin Tuna courses (Chutoro and Otoro) made it into our top five, it was the Gindara (Sablefish), Shima Aji (Trevally), and Kasugo (Baby Sea Bream) that truly stole the show. The entire evening was memorable, starting with the Ossetra Chip amuse-bouche and ending with a unique ice cream dessert—an homage to the restaurant's location in the historic Creamery Building, topped with a KitKat, a clever nod to Japanese pop culture ("Kitto Katsu").

Beth, who managed beverages and service, was incredibly knowledgeable about the carefully curated drink menu and provided attentive, friendly service with a touch of humor that lightened the atmosphere. We tried two non-alcoholic options—a sparkling white with fruity, citrus notes and a semi-cloudy white, dry and well-balanced. Although the wine list was impressive, we were delighted to see exciting non-alcoholic choices featured prominently—something that should be standard in every fine dining experience.

The interior design followed the traditions of clean, minimalist Japanese aesthetics, with natural wood elements and beautifully hand-made ceramic ware—some sourced from a local artist and others crafted in the Imari-ware style.

In conclusion, we had a wonderful evening. Chef Karson and his team delivered an experience that surpassed what we had anticipated in every aspect. And yes, we did take a photo with Chef Karson and Beth to commemorate the experience!

Thank you—we will...

This place gets some things right and some things very wrong. It provides a opportunity to try types of fish not usually available and the space is nice. However, the portions are to small and there is something rediculous about someone telling you to call them "chef" when they've only had a 6-week sushi course. It's disrespectful to parade around as a sushi chef when there are people who have dedicated their life to the craft.

Most irritating about the experience was the service. I reserved for a group of 3. We had to provide $150 to lock in the reservation. One person had to cancel last minute and so I understood I'd lose that $50. At the end of the meal they presented a check for the full price of 3 people ($175 ea). I recieved nothing for the additional $175. They did say they would charge full price for the missing person, did not discuss receiving their portions, or anything that would have been appropriate. In the end they pocketed an additional $175 and probably ate the extras themselves.

For a restaurant aiming for a Michelin star they should consider not robbing people, and offering more than 8oz of...

Worth the price, tip is included. Go a little early to find street parking or go to pay parking garage. Use entrance on 21st Street. You’ll be greeted and seated together for your time slot. 8 people omakase sushi counter. Very intimate, chill place and Chef Karson is very knowledgeable and great at presenting each of the courses and Beth will see to all your needs including a basket for your personal items to store under your seat. As for the courses, there are many favorites but I loved the Kinmedai golden eye snapper and I thought the soy on the house-made vanilla ice-cream was amazing. Also enjoyed the Chawanmushi soup we started with. A savory custard like soup with mushrooms. Fish is flown in daily from Japan. The rice is very special too. Turns out real wasabi is actually milder than you may think and sea urchin can actually taste good! A MUST try!This was a pleasurable dining experience and some unique offerings. FYI, they even have legit Japanese...