first impression | From ramen to bibimbap to Kung Pao chicken, Jinzen offers a fusion of Asian dishes. Located in Clayton, the restaurant’s menu is a collage of favorites from Japan, South Korea and China. It’s an interesting mix of dishes that comes together to offer a truly unique dining experience.
wash it down
The standout on Jinzen’s beverage selection is the wide selection of saki available. The drink menu breaks down the different types and individual flavor notes, so it’s very approachable for saki newbies. The Joto Yuzu Flavored Sake ($12.95/cup) is very refreshing, and the addition of citrus makes it a great starting point.
must trys
Sea Cucumber Mini Dumplings, $9.95: Along with sea cucumber, these dumplings are filled with beef. The highlight of the dish is the crispy-edge—also known as a dumpling skirt or lace. It’s a thin, tuile-like layer that’s attached to the dumplings, and it’s amazing. That along with the uniqueness of the filling (how often do you see sea cucumber as an option?), make this definitely worth a try.
Crispy Wasabi Mayo Prawn, $11.95: Another appetizer you probably aren’t going to find on many other menus. The fried prawns are tossed in a creamy wasabi-based sauce and served on a rice chip. The bite
is perfectly balanced with great texture, and the wasabi is not overwhelming at all. It delivers the perfect heat to balance the more delicate flavor of the shrimp.
Spicy Miso Ramen, $17.95: It’s hard to go wrong with a good bowl of ramen, and this is no exception. The chashu is tender, and the broth is flavorful. The heat level is manageable for most people—spice lovers might find it underwhelming. Still, it’s a great dish.
Volcano Fried Rice, $14.95: This dish takes a simple concept like Kung Pao chicken fried rice and turns it into a showstopper. It actually comes with a tableside pour. Your rice is served on a hot skillet, and the egg is added and scrambled right in front of you. It’s a really fun experience. The fried rice is flavorful and there’s not much heat, especially for Kung Pao chicken—it’s just a really comforting meal.
Strawberry Mont Blanc, $7.95: This cake is fluffy and light, making a great end to a meal. The presentation also is striking. In the traditional Mont Blanc style, the whipped strawberry puree that tops the dessert is served in the form of vermicelli. Jinzen also offers a traditional chestnut version.
final thoughts
Jinzen is a gem in Clayton. The ambience is wonderful—the decor is all blonde wood, warm lighting and cherry blossom decorations. It’s a very calming atmosphere, and I would be remiss not to mention how cute the different salt and pepper shakers located on each table are—we got the maneki-neko, the beckoning cat. Jinzen’s menu
is unique and interesting. You’re not going to find this line-up of dishes anywhere else in St. Louis.
8113 Maryland Ave. | 314.354.8086 | jinzenstl.com
Pictured at top: Mentaiko Cream Udon – Noodles tossed with prawns and a creamy sauce flavored with spicy salted pollock roe, topped with kizami nori
Photo: Bill Barrett
