“ I found a new way to get the Zen flowing that we all need sometimes. I hit up Ocean Zen on the Southside of Springfield, Missouri, and boy am I glad we did. I met up with Chef/Owner Johnson Tan, who is the Executive Chef and creative designer of the menu. Chef Tan builds his philosophy by letting Eat meet West in bold culinary ways. Let’s dive into the menu items we enjoyed last week. Stop Drop & Roll - Spicy Tuna, Shrimp Tempura topped with Walu Butterfish, Shrimp, Sriracha, & Furikake 21 They light this roll on fire and in my opinion, it is one of the best Sushi Rolls in the 417. I love butterfish, and that is an item you can’t find in the area often. Crispy Hong Kong Style Salt & Pepper Jalapeno Soft Shell Crab w Garlic, Butter, Jalapenos & Spicy Mayo 20 This dish was one of my favorites and a lot of the film crew had never had soft shell crab so that was cool to share that experience with them. Sesame Nori Crusted Seared Rare Ahi Tuna which was Tobiko Caviar, Enoki Mushrooms, Teriyaki Soy Mustard Lobster Sauce 20 This dish was so fresh and flavorful like a tuna umami explosion in your mouth, highly recommend this dish! Ocean Zen’s Signature Appetizer Sampler - Crispy Shrimp Rolls, Crab Wontons, Mongolian Ribs, Potstickers 20 (serves 2) You can never go wrong with this, they use real crab in the wontons, and the ribs were on point. The film crew devoured this dish after the shoot, A Blueberry Teriyaki Glazed Salmon - Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Asian Veggies, Crispy Shrimp Roll, Blueberry Butter Sauce 34 What a fun spin on salmon. The blueberry sauce was different and eclectic, with a great flavor combination. Ocean Zen Signature Seafood Pasta - Butter Garlic Roasted Half Lobster Tail, Jumbo Bacon Wrapped Scallops, Seared Shrimp Stix, Rigatoni Pasta, Pesto Cream Sauce 35 The lobster was perfectly cooked and I loved the Bacon Wrapped Scallop. This was a masterpiece of a dish. Mongolian Glazed Grilled 16oz Angus Ribeye - Bacon Cheddar Mashed Potatoes, X.O. Style Green Beans, Brandy Dijon Cream Sauce 45 The ribeye melted in your mouth and I am a huge fan of the Brandy Dijon Cream Sauce. The green beans were fried and super tender and juicy. Chef Tan also brought us out the special that was South African Tail Lobster with a Garlic Butter Sauce. South African Tail is so sweet and one of my favorite seafoods. I am so thankful for a restaurant like this in our area where you can leave all your troubles of the world behind when you walk into the doors of this establishment. From the divine NA Cocktails to the service, the ambiance and the flavors, this restaurant is on point! Come check them out and tell them “The Chefs View” sent ya, I am also curious what is your favorite dish??? #thechefsview #oceanzen #springfieldmissouri #springfieldmo #asianfood #sushi #steak #lobster #panasian #butter ”

“ April 16, 2025 Fabulous restaurant. Decadent food and spirits. Exceptional service. Lavish interior. Most definitely a dining experience. I highly recommend. Delicious! I did notice nice rooms for large gatherings. You won’t be disappointed. ”

“ We had a great night at Ocean Zen. The food was fantastic, the service was great and the atmosphere was amazing! The flavors of the dishes were had weren’t flavors you taste in Springfield, Missouri often. The uniqueness of the flavors coupled with the quality of ingredients was unmatched. Thank you for a wonderful dining experience! ”

“ My wife and I have known about this place for a while. We have never been but looking for a new sushi and seafood place (which in a landlocked state is difficult) we decided to finally travel to Ocean Zen. Aside from the very slow service start, the food, drinks, and service ultimately gave them a resounding 5 stars! We started with the Ocean Zen Signature App Sampler. All the food was very tasty and cooked perfectly. The meat fell right off the ribs and the accompanying sauces were paired perfectly. We also ordered the Crazy Monkey Roll, which was done excellently. We had sushi from a popular location in Springfield the week prior and was absolutely disappointed. However this roll the rice was fresh and firm with a flavorful combination within the roll itself. I ordered the Chilean Sea Bass and it was AMAZING. The fish absolutely melted in your mouth and had wonderful flavor with a buttery texture, with a tremendous portion. She had the Ocean Zen Signature Seafood Pasta. Everything was cooked perfectly and the pasta was al dente. The lobster tail was precut so there was no need to get messy while consuming. To drink I had the smokey old fashioned. This is by far the best smoked old fashion I have enjoyed in a long time! To wrap up the meal we had the bananas foster. The dessert is made table side which is very nice. The entirety of the meal was prepared perfectly and tasted excellent. Service was awesome! With the exception of waiting for service after we were seated there were absolutely no complaints about anything (try claiming that at anY restaurant nowadays). We definitely can't wait to visit again! ”

“ Thank you Ameto for a wonderful anniversary experience. You’ve made our night a time to never forget. Surprised us with a beautiful creme brulee. Will be back hope to see you again. ”

“ My wife and I had an absolutely delicious dinner here. The atmosphere is very elegant but the attire is more relaxed and casual. I don't believe they have anything that is not amazing. Fantastic service as well! ”

“ My experience at this place was truly amazing. It is the perfect spot for a girls' night out or a party. The food they serve is absolutely delicious, especially their sushi. I have been to this place multiple times for parties and each time was just as amazing as the last. The food and service were top-notch and I thoroughly enjoyed every visit. ”

“ Amazing place, great service and the food was on another level, took my wife and family for our 4th aniversary amd was just phenomenal ”