Neighborhood sushi bar” isn’t a term most people living in a semi-rural community would use. Neighborhood bar, feedstore or market would all make the list, but neighborhood sushi isn’t usually part of the realtor’s sales pitch. Yet as I sat and listened to the staff-customer interaction at Kochi, that’s exactly what they have. The restaurant has only been open a few months, yet they’ve already garnered a loyal following.

Their seafood is fresh, and the dishes are inventive, artistic and delectable. As I perused the lunch menu, I was mindful of the oppressive heat awaiting me upon finishing, so I set out to stay on the lighter side. 

The shigoku (meaning “ultimate” in Japanese) oysters—off of the Chef’s Special Menu—were a perfect start. Chilled, with a touch of sriracha heat, lemon and the natural oyster liquor, made them a match well-suited for the 100-degree heat outside. Next up were the O.G. Bonbons, also one of the chef’s specials. O.G. apparently likes his bonbons made of surimi (crab) and cream cheese—all wrapped in buttery hamachi (Japanese yellowtail) and served with a combination of sauces. Much like their chocolate namesake, they were a sinful delight. 

Moving to the nigiri menu, Chef Ming delivered a tasting plate of hamachi, sake (salmon) and tako (steamed octopus) that featured skillful knife work and a beautifully simple presentation with fish as fresh as you would expect from any high-end Japanese restaurant. 

My final order of the Jonh Roll sent shockwaves through Chef Ming and his assistant. “It’s really big!” was the response from the incredulous pair. And so it was. After watching the chef expertly coax and cajole deep-fried shrimp, surimi, cucumber, unagi, ebi, avocado, tobiko and green onion throughout this godzilla of a rice roll, he muscled the creation down in front of me. So much for eating light in the heat. I managed to enjoy a couple slices of the masterful monstrosity before tactfully tapping out. “To-go box, please?” 

Next time you’re in the area, I highly advise stopping by Kochi for some neighborhood sushi. You’ll be glad you did. 

Kochi Sushi & Japanese Bar and Grill, 2205 Francisco Drive, Suite 110, El Dorado Hills, 916-933-8899.
by Lorn Randall  //  photos by Dante Fontana