Sushi is my all-time favorite food and growing up in SoCal there was no shortage of amazing sushi; some even all-you-can-eat! Here in Redding, CA it’s a different food landscape than some bigger cities, but if you know where to look, you can find a gem hidden in an unassuming building in a not-so-great part of town.

Sakura Sushi was started by Sushi Chef Ken Ji who studied the art in Tokyo for 33 years before starting the first sushi bar in Redding, CA. Chef Ji masterfully creates his works of art behind the bar in the quaint building at 2130 East St. The decor is quite simple; the sushi is the real star. You can tell it’s a labor of love when the restaurant is only open for limited hours and sometime closes early if there’s no business. Definitely call ahead (530-244-0201) if you plan on trying it or if you have a larger group. You will definitely see how Sakura Sushi has the best sushi in town with fresh fish and reasonable prices along with great service from the lone server, Melissa. My go-to roll is the Rainbow Roll and it doesn’t disappoint. If you’re looking for the most authentic, beautifully-made sushi in Redding, Sakura is it by far.
If you need your sushi craving satisfied and Sakura Sushi happens to be closed, my next pick would be Bonsai Sushi Fusion at 5200 Churn Creek Rd. This newer restaurant hasn’t been around as long as Sakura, but it took Redding by storm when it opened. With a larger menu and other Japanese cuisine for those who don’t eat raw fish (like the Bento Boxes) Bonsai serves up great Japanese food at a very reasonable price. There’s also more space for larger groups! You can’t go wrong with Bonsai! Oh, and you can order a Rainbow Roll even though it’s off the menu.

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