by Marie Richie

MIO SUSHI
2271 NW Johnson St.
Portland, OR 97210
(503)-221-1469

Consistently among the highest rated, Mio’s reputation is based upon fish that seems to melt in your mouth. Now spanning 5 locations across the metro-area, the original, located just off the uber-trendy NW 23rd Avenue, remains the best. Reservations are not taken, but the line moves quickly, and there’s plenty to see nearby while you wait. Once inside, service is prompt and friendly. Everything from the tea to the fish is of the finest quality and prepared right in front of you. Of particular note is the raw salmon and unagi (fresh-water eel). Many items are also offered for those who prefer cooked food. The new Portland Streetcar stops closer than you’re likely to be able to park.

by Marie Richie

SABURRO’S SUSHI HOUSE

1667 SE Bybee Blvd.

Portland, OR 97202

(503)-236-4237

If you’ve ever wanted sashimi bigger than your fist, this is the place for you. Renown for giant portions, this almost claustrophobic location tucked in the historic Sellwood neighborhood always has a line out the door. Reservations are not accepted and groups may wait up to an hour, but it’s a testament to the gluttonous portions and quality that most in line are repeat customers. Not a place that stands on pretension, yours may result in the definition of poor service. Customers who behave themselves will be repaid with one of the best sushi deals on the West Coast and very friendly service. The house special Sabu-roll is a meal unto itself.

by Marie Richie

RESTAURANT MURATA
200 SW Market St., Suite 105
Portland, OR 97201
(503)-227-0080
Probably the most expensive sushi restaurant in town, Murata specializes in creating authentic Japanese food of the highest quality. This small and sparsely decorated space in downtown also offers private tatami rooms that can be reserved. This is the only place in town to reliably get fresh toro (fatty tuna belly). Be sure to ask your server for some recommendations, as you’re sure to encounter things on the menu that gaijin have never heard of – they’ll be happy to help you expand your culinary horizons. The usually large Japanese crowd found here on any given night attests to the authenticity.

by Marie Richie
SUSHIVILLE SUSHI-GO-ROUND
1514 NW 23rd Ave. (at Quimby)
Portland, OR 97210
(503)-226-4710
One of several sushi restaurants in town with a conveyor belt, Sushiville serves the best quality fish, by far. Walk in and sit right down. Servers are ready to take your order for anything you can’t find going around, drinks and special requests. The bar is enormous, though the seats are not. The cafeteria atmosphere is punctuated by endless pop-hits of the 1980s. However, you won’t care when you get the bill. Each color-coded plate ranges from $1.25 for edamame or tomago to $3.75 for the spicy dragon or caterpillar rolls. Help yourself to all the ginger and wasabi you want, and don’t forget to have your frequent diner card stamped. Available for take out.