OZ's Crazy Shrimp Roll - find a better roll for $4.50. Consider it a challenge.
Ocean Zen Pacific Rim has been regarded as one of SGF’s better fine dining spots, but with otherworldly happy hour specials, it has become one of the prime early dinner (and drinks) locations. OZ’s happy hour runs Monday-Thursday from 4-6 p.m. with a late night option on the weekend (Friday and Saturday from 9 p.m.-close). The menu stretches from a variety of appetizers to sushi rolls, salads and sides. The most expensive item on the happy hour menu is $6, so you can affordably create your own meal.
The cornerstone is clearly the drinks and sushi – which seem just a notch shorter than their full-priced counterparts (4-6 pieces). There are eight different rolls available, from the simple (Cucumber and California) to the complex (Ocean Zen Signature), but in the middle is where our orders landed. The Crazy Shrimp Roll is the best $4.50 roll in SGF. If you know one better for that price, get at me – Brett@TAGsgf.com. The Crazy shrimp is shrimp tempura covered with an incredible spicy tuna mix sitting on top. A little kick of Sriracha provides the perfect punch. The Crispy California Roll is another twist on a classic, something Ocean Zen has done across its entire menu.
Every H.H. appetizer is tempting – Edamame, Blue Crab & Cream Cheese Stuffed Wontons, Pineapple Citrus Glazed Crispy Chicken, Mongolian Glazed St. Louis Style Ribs, BBQ Chicken, Spring Rolls … the list is an all-star mix of shortened up entrees and killer apps. We went with the Blue Crab Wontons and were certainly pleased with the result. A light batter with a well-mixed filling of crab and the rest. You can tell when there’s something real in the middle.
Several sides make an appearance in the afternoon as well – Bacon Cheddar Risotto, Grilled Cheezy Bread, Tomato Soup and loaded Mashed Potatoes to start. I had to try the potatoes and will now get them every time I go.
We weren’t drinking on this occasion, but will be back to imbibe. The drink specials included: $5.50 wine by the glass, $2 domestic drafts, $5 specialty drinks (cocktails), and $4 calls.
Three of us went and all left satisfied, both in volume and flavor (especially in flavor). We ordered four sushi rolls, one appetizer and one side, but the bill read just $25.82.
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