Zen - Japan

We just finished kayaking for 3 hours. We missed our stop on the train trying to find another place. It was cold and we were in a tight spot because our friend was vegan and there aren't many vegan restaurants in Japan. We found this place, Zen through a quick search. We got to the door and knew it was amazing. The staff was very helpful and friendly. We took out time ordering and they didn't rush us at al. The sitting is a unique in the back section. The table is in the center and raised on a platform. You have to leave your shoes at the base of the platform. The table has a grilling plate heating food. The menu clearly identified what was vegan, vegetarian, and contained allergens. The portions were huge and the atmosphere was cheerful. Something to note is that smoking is allowed in side. Many restaurants in Japan allow smoking inside. Please make sure to check on a website or call ahead if you can't tolerate it.

The staff is welcoming and helpful for those who may have difficulty with Japanese menus. The food is satisfying, though not exceptional. However, the restaurant offers a variety of dietary options, making it an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians. The restroom is also well-maintained and pleasant.

Good food, great ambience and service. They have good vegetarian options.

Three of us dined at this restaurant for dinner, sitting at a traditional Japanese style table. The food was both well-presented and delicious. Throughout the meal, the staff consistently refilled our water glasses. Upon finishing our meal, the server provided us with valuable tourist information using a combination of Google Translate and pictures. It was a truly pleasant experience.

Strongly do not recommend. First of all, they have a cover charge which is highly unusual and from other accounts, implemented for foreigners. Food was very mediocre. Reviews and photos seemed good but it was floury and the insides of the okonomiyaki was quite bland. Service was slow. It took us half an hour to get our first dish, and then half an hour more for the second dish. They did tell us that it was a full house but when the table to our left and right were more than one dish ahead of us, it was pretty telling. Do they prioritise locals or tourists of a certain demographic? I don't know for sure. Also, do skip this if you don't like or can't take smoking in enclosed areas. I'm pretty sure we left, with unsatisfied bellies, with a few days taken off our lifespans due to secondhand smoke inhalation.