GO TO MODAN FOR THE FOOD!!! I'm seriously still in awe from the omakase dinner from last night. I go to Japan at least twice a year for work, and until Modan last night, I would not have thought I could find Japanese cuisine THAT good outside of Japan. Honestly, I have been to various Nobu and Morimoto restaurants across the U.S., but Modan's food is simply much more gratifying and... MEMORABLE. Don't get me wrong, every time I've gone to a Nobu or a Morimoto, the food has been great, but I also feel like it's food that I can readily find in Japan... for A LOT LESS MONEY! It's like "wow, I just paid a lot of money for pretty good Japanese... I guess that's just what I should expect outside of Japan." But last night, I left Modan feeling like I've never had Japanese food THAT good... and, no dollar amount could buy you Japanese cuisine as good as Modan's anywhere else. It's just THAT good. Now admittedly when it comes to Japanese food, I'm a little hard to please or satisfy; reason being is that I love the simplicity of Japanese food where all the umami really comes from using the highest quality ingredients in a balanced flavor combination. The big problem for me is that most 'modern' Japanese restaurants use complex recipes with sauces, spices and other ingredient combinations that have very strong and distinct flavor profiles, so you end up losing all the 'classic' Japanese umami from the best raw ingredients. Ultimately, I settle for the classic Japanese sushi/sashimi places that tend not to be as chic or fun and exciting in the atmosphere and setting. Well, Modan has truly broken the mold! I would describe it as "Unapologetically Classic Japanese Cuisine, presented for a Chic and Modern Setting." Incidentally, the picture of the restaurant name above the miniature zen garden attached to this review perfectly conveys what I'm trying to say. And, as for the people who have been critical about the service and setting, I can only say this: Modan was packed last night for only it's second Tuesday of being open, yet, the General Manager, Sean, the Executive Director, Joon, the Director of Hospitality, Darryle, the Executive Chef (and absolutely amazing Creative Genius) Chico, and the Bar Manager (and Sake Savant), Corey, each individually introduced themselves (no, I wasn't special, I saw each of them making their rounds among all the guests), and extended a personal offer to contribute to my dining experience. Truly First Class.... So I say, "GO TO MODAN FIRST AND FOREMOST FOR THE EXQUISITE JAPANESE FOOD... and stay to enjoy the authentic Japanese hospitality in a modernly chic ambiance." read more

I had the opportunity to experience Modan Omakase again, and the progression from a year ago to today is remarkable. This meal delivered a true wow factor from start to finish, with thoughtful execution, balance, and moments of genuine creativity. Several bites stood out immediately. The tachiuo with lemon was bright and clean, highlighting the fish's delicate texture beautifully. The rosy perch was exceptional, soft, buttery, and completely melt in your mouth. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Wagyu Imperial was pure decadence, A5 wagyu layered with bone marrow, foie gras, eel sauce, and caviar, rich, indulgent, and unapologetically luxurious. The sashimi course was elevated with a 30 year aged soy sauce, adding depth and complexity without overpowering the fish. It was a subtle but memorable touch that showed attention to detail. One of my favorite bites of the night was the oyster. The edible shell added both texture and a sense of surprise, making it as fun as it was delicious. It is a great example of how Modan leans into creativity while still delivering on flavor. The meal closed with a standout kakigori dessert that I would come back for on its own. The combination of passionfruit syrup, mango milk, and hidden lychee bites created a refreshing, layered finish that was both playful and satisfying. One small note would be on the uni rice with caviar hand roll. While the portion was extremely generous, the uni being mixed into the rice made it feel somewhat lost. Presenting it more distinctly, perhaps as a row of uni alongside the rice with caviar, would allow each bite to fully showcase its texture and flavor and make the experience even more impactful. Service was exceptional. Alona was outstanding, attentive, warm, and genuinely elevated the experience. Chef Chico and Chef Zhao worked seamlessly in tandem, creating a cohesive and engaging omakase that felt both polished and personal. Overall, this was an impressive and memorable meal. Modan is clearly evolving, and it shows. I will definitely be back. read more

Recently, I had the pleasure of dining at Modan, a new sushi and omakase restaurant that's already made waves in NOVA's dining scene. Let me tell you--it lives up to the hype and then some. From the moment we were seated, the experience was nothing short of impeccable. The setting strikes a perfect balance between modern sophistication and elegance, creating an inviting atmosphere that sets the stage for what's to come. The omakase menu was simply unforgettable. Each course was a testament to the Chef Chico's attention to detail and passion for his craft. While every dish was a standout, a few favorites stole the show. The "sushi tacos" were an unexpected delight--a brilliant fusion of textures and flavors that made each bite crave-worthy. The black cod was cooked to perfection, with a delicate, buttery texture that practically melted in my mouth. And then came the A5 wagyu, seared tableside on a hot stone. Watching it sizzle was almost as satisfying as tasting it: rich, tender, and an absolute showstopper. I heard the signature caviar handroll was exquisite, but I will have to try that on my next visit. Beyond the food, the cocktails were top-tier. The drink menu features innovative creations that pair seamlessly with the omakase journey. From start to finish, the experience at Modan was more than just dining--it was a journey through expertly balanced flavors and masterful presentations. If you're looking for a place that will impress even the most discerning palates, Modan should be at the top of your list. I can't wait to return! read more

Modan in McLean, VA offers a sophisticated and vibrant dining experience that's perfect for a date night. The restaurant has a clean, elegant ambiance, with a grown and sexy vibe that's ideal for a more refined crowd. For appetizers, we shared the Wagyu Dumplings, Octopus Carpaccio, King Salmon Carpaccio, and Wagyu Taco. The Wagyu Dumplings were the standout of the night--succulent, savory, and the perfect bite. The Octopus and King Salmon Carpaccio were flavorful, but the real highlight was the Octopus Carpaccio, which was delicate and well-seasoned. We also enjoyed the Wagyu Taco, which was a fun twist on the traditional taco, but the dumplings were definitely the winner. For sushi, I ordered the Firecracker and Lollipop rolls. While both were tasty, they were just okay. On the other hand, my companion ordered the Octopussy roll, which was the real star of the evening--perfectly sized and beautifully balanced in flavor. For drinks, I tried the refreshing Fruit Ninja cocktail, which was playful and perfectly balanced, and the Cucumber Sunomono, which was decent but didn't stand out as much. My companion opted for the Far East Paloma and really enjoyed it. While the service started off a bit slow, it improved quickly as two servers attended to us and offered solid recommendations. Overall, Modan offers a great dining experience with delicious food, excellent drink options, and a cozy, stylish atmosphere. I would definitely recommend it for a date night! read more

Modan in Tysons Corner is an absolute gem! From start to finish, my dining experience was flawless. The food was nothing short of extraordinary. The Modan wagyu tacos were a flavor explosion--perfectly balanced with fresh ingredients and a unique twist. The black cod with house miso and smoked trout roe was melt-in-your-mouth delicious, with the miso glaze adding just the right amount of sweetness. To finish, the matcha cheesecake was pure dessert perfection--rich, creamy, and not overly sweet, with a true matcha flavor that left me wanting more. The cocktails were equally amazing, with the lychee martini stealing the show--refreshing, floral, and perfectly balanced. Service was impeccable; the staff was attentive and knowledgeable, making excellent recommendations. The ambience was on point--modern, chic, and inviting. And let's not forget the themed bathrooms--they're fun, unique, and tie in perfectly with the restaurant's overall vibe. For a new restaurant, Modan has truly nailed it. I'm already planning my return visit to experience the sushi bar and their highly anticipated Omakase. If you're looking for your next dinner spot, make a reservation at Modan. You won't regret it! read more

Experience the epitome of modern Japanese cuisine at Modan! This new high-end restaurant truly lives up to its name, which means 'modern' in Japanese. From the moment you step in, you're transported into a world of culinary innovation and exceptional service. The 15-course Omakase is a journey through exquisite flavors and textures. Each dish is artfully prepared right before your eyes, with the chef explaining every intricate detail. The ingredients? Incredibly fresh and of the highest quality, many sourced directly from Japan. Modan's pioneering approach to dry-aging fish elevates their sushi and sashimi to new heights. The result? Unparalleled depth of flavor that will tantalize your taste buds. The service is impeccable - you'll feel like the most important person in the room. Pair your meal with their excellent selection of wines and sakes or indulge in one of their amazing hand-crafted cocktails for a truly unique experience. Modan isn't just a meal; it's a culinary adventure that redefines modern Japanese dining. A must-visit for any food enthusiast! #ModanExperience #ModanRestaurant #Japanese #Sushi #Sashimi #Omakase #datenight #JapaneseCuisine #FoodieHeaven read more

We recently visited Modan Restaurant in Tysons, and it was nothing short of spectacular! From the moment we walked in, the ambiance set the stage for a memorable evening. The sleek, modern design paired with the warm lighting creates a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere. The food was absolutely divine. Some of my favorite dishes included the edamame, which was perfectly seasoned, and the spicy tuna rice cakes, which had an incredible crunch balanced by the flavorful tuna topping. The sushi platter was fresh and meticulously crafted, and the desserts were a work of art, not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. The service was impeccable. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about ensuring we had a great experience. Despite being newly opened, Modan is already delivering on excellence and creating a name for itself. read more

Here's a review you could use for Aram: --- I recently visited Modan and I must say, the experience was elevated by the exceptional service from our bartender, Aram. From the moment we sat down, Aram was attentive and welcoming, making sure we felt right at home. Not only was he knowledgeable about the drink menu, but his recommendations were spot-on and tailored to our tastes. He was friendly, engaging in conversation while also making sure we had everything we needed without being overbearing. The ambiance was great, but Aram's service truly made the evening special. If you're looking for a fantastic spot with someone who knows how to mix a great drink and make guests feel valued, I highly recommend stopping by for a drink with Aram! read more

Modan in Tysons is hands down my favorite spot in the area--an absolute gem. The food? Simply incredible. Every dish bursts with flavor and creativity. The décor, the vibe, the energy--it's all perfectly curated and effortlessly cool. What truly sets Modan apart, though, is the team. Corey, the Bar Manager, is a standout. He brings genuine passion to what he does and makes everyone feel like a regular, even on their first visit. If you haven't been yet, do yourself a favor: start at the bar. The cocktail list is phenomenal, and Corey will no doubt recommend something unforgettable. Then drift over to a table for the full experience--trust me, you'll want to savor every moment. Derek Smith read more

Absolutely outstanding experience! This Japanese restaurant is so good! The shishito peppers were a perfect starter--just the right amount of char and seasoning to bring out their flavor. Their drink menu is impressive, with unique, expertly crafted cocktails that paired perfectly with each course. The standout dish was the black cod and the king salmon carpaccio was a fresh, balancing perfectly with its garnishes. And to top it all off, the lava cake dessert was sheer perfection--a warm, rich chocolate center with a delicate crust, making each bite heavenly. A must-visit for anyone looking for an incredible Japanese dining experience! read more

Modan is a true gem for sushi lovers! From the moment you walk in, the modern yet cozy ambiance sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. The sushi here is incredibly fresh--each piece is a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs. The fish practically melts in your mouth, and the balance of flavors in their signature rolls is perfection. The drink menu is just as impressive. Their house cocktails are not only beautifully presented but also perfectly crafted to complement the sushi. The drink selection is extensive, with both classic and unique options for any palate. read more

This restaurant delivers perfection in every aspect--exceptional sushi, warm hospitality, and a chef who is truly a master of his craft. Each piece is carefully prepared with the freshest ingredients, showcasing incredible precision and flavor. The owners and staff go above and beyond to create a welcoming, personalized experience, making every guest feel special. A true gem where passion and skill come together beautifully. -Highly recommend! read more

Nothing less than amazing. Decor is fabulous,the sushi is incredible, I love the tuna tacos. The wagyu beef melts in your mouth. The service is great,the food is to die for. The only thing I recommend is that the waiters pay attention to guests conversation and address the table when they see an opening to do so. That extra touch would elevate the experience. read more

"Fantastic new addition to Tysons! The restaurant/sushi bar impresses with its fresh, high-quality ingredients. The menu offers a great variety. The ambiance is modern yet cozy, perfect for both casual dining and special occasions. Friendly, attentive service enhances the experience. Excited to have this gem in the area and will be back soon! read more

The food is fantastic. Meat and seafood is so fresh and the waygu is sooooo good! I am so glad that there is finally a modern Japanese restaurant not in DC! Beautiful restaurant so perfect for birthdays and occasions and the bathrooms are so cool. Perfect girls night out and perfect for pictures!! read more

wow. I have never seen this kind of restaurent , food is just delicious. get the cod fish , omg it just melts. any thing u order there is soo delicious. also get melted curshed ice mango dessert . u love it. thaks for an amazing food. read more

Modan is a great spot for Japanese cuisine, with fresh sushi and well-prepared small plates. The flavors are consistently enjoyable, and the atmosphere is comfortable and inviting. Perfect for a relaxed meal with friends or family. read more