I love sushi, and Eugene, Oregon has some great spots to satisfy my cravings.
As a local, I’ve tried many sushi restaurants in the area. I want to share my top picks with you.
Eugene’s sushi scene offers a mix of traditional and creative options that will please any sushi lover.
From cozy neighborhood joints to upscale dining experiences, there’s something for everyone.
I’ve put together a list of the 5 best sushi restaurants in Eugene based on my personal experiences and reviews from other diners.
1. Izakaya Meiji Co.
I stumbled upon this hidden gem in Eugene and was blown away.
Izakaya Meiji Co. brings a unique twist to sushi by blending Japanese and Western flavors. The moment I walked in, I felt transported to a cozy saloon in Tokyo.
Their menu is a delightful mix of traditional and fusion dishes.
I couldn’t resist trying their late-night ramen, which was a comforting bowl of goodness. The noodles were perfectly cooked, and the broth was rich and flavorful.
What really caught my attention was their bourbon selection. On Wednesdays, they offer $2 off bourbon and ginger drinks. It’s the perfect pairing with their sushi rolls.
I loved how they balanced the delicate flavors of fresh fish with bold Western touches.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with a touch of country western flair.
It’s a great spot for a casual dinner with friends or a fun date night. Just remember, they’re closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Rating: 4.5 (1100 reviews)
Location: 345 Van Buren St, Eugene, OR 97402
Contact: (541) 505-8804
Website: Visit Website
2. Izumi Sushi and Grill
I recently visited Izumi Sushi and Grill and was impressed by their wide selection of Japanese cuisine.
The sushi bar caught my eye right away, with chefs crafting beautiful nigiri, sashimi, and rolls using fresh fish.
I loved the relaxed atmosphere and decided to try a few different dishes. The tempura was light and crispy, while the bento box offered a great variety of flavors. Their signature cocktails were a nice touch too.
The happy hour deals are a real steal.
I went during the early evening and enjoyed some discounted rolls and appetizers. It’s clear why Izumi has been a local favorite since 2008.
For those who prefer dining at home, I was happy to learn they offer delivery of their full menu. It’s perfect for when you’re craving sushi but don’t want to go out.
Rating: 4.3 (1100 reviews)
Location: 2773 Shadowview, Eugene, OR 97408
Contact: (541) 683-1201
Website: Visit Website
3. Makoto Japanese Restaurant
I recently had the pleasure of dining at Makoto Japanese Restaurant in Eugene, and it was a delightful experience.
The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere that made me feel right at home.
The menu at Makoto is impressive, with a wide variety of sushi rolls and Japanese dishes to choose from.
I tried their signature roll, and it was absolutely delicious. The fish was fresh, and the flavors were perfectly balanced.
What really stood out to me was the attentive service. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to answer my questions and make recommendations.
They went above and beyond to make sure I had a great dining experience.
I also loved the presentation of the food. Each dish was beautifully arranged, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. It’s clear that the chefs at Makoto take pride in their craft.
Rating: 4.4 (622 reviews)
Location: 1167 Willamette St, Eugene, OR 97401
Contact: (458) 201-7403
Website: Visit Website
4. Sushi PURE
I recently visited Sushi PURE and was blown away by their unique purple rice.
It’s a mix of black and white rice that creates a beautiful shade. The color isn’t just for show – it adds a nutty flavor that pairs well with their fresh fish.
The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere that made me feel right at home.
The staff were friendly and helpful, offering suggestions when I couldn’t decide what to order. I ended up trying their signature rolls and was not disappointed.
Their menu has a great variety of options, from classic nigiri to creative specialty rolls. Everything I tried tasted super fresh. The presentation was also top-notch – each plate looked like a work of art.
I especially loved their commitment to using high-quality ingredients. You can really taste the difference in their sushi.
If you’re looking for a memorable sushi experience in Eugene, Sushi PURE is definitely worth a visit.
Rating: 4.5 (734 reviews)
Location: 259 E 5th Ave, Eugene, OR 97401
Contact: (541) 654-0608
Website: Visit Website
5. Tonton Sushi
I stumbled upon this hidden gem on Van Buren Street, and I’m so glad I did!
Tonton Sushi is a food truck that’s changing the sushi game in Eugene. Their unique sushi donuts caught my eye immediately.
The creativity here is off the charts. I tried their sushi balls too, and they were just as amazing. The flavors are fresh and bold, with high-quality ingredients in every bite. It’s a fun twist on traditional sushi that I never knew I needed.
The staff was super friendly and helpful. They explained all the different options and even gave me some recommendations. I felt like a regular even though it was my first visit.
The wait wasn’t long, and the prices were reasonable for the quality.
I can’t wait to go back and try more of their menu. If you’re looking for a quick, delicious sushi fix with a creative flair, Tonton Sushi is the place to be.
It’s perfect for a casual lunch or dinner, and I bet it would impress on a date too!
Rating: 4.8 (47 reviews)
Location: 267 Van Buren St, Eugene, OR 97402
Contact: (503) 919-9924
Website: Visit Website
Sushi Culture in Eugene
Eugene has a vibrant sushi scene that blends traditional Japanese techniques with local flavors. I’ve noticed how the city’s love for fresh ingredients and sustainability has shaped its unique sushi culture.
History of Sushi in the Region
Sushi arrived in Eugene in the 1980s as Japanese restaurants started popping up. I remember when the first sushi bar opened downtown, causing quite a stir.
At first, many locals were hesitant to try raw fish. But over time, sushi became a hit.
By the 1990s, Eugene had several popular sushi spots. I saw more people embracing this cuisine, especially college students and health-conscious eaters. The 2000s brought a sushi boom, with new restaurants opening and existing ones expanding their menus.
Today, sushi is a staple in Eugene’s food scene. I’ve watched it evolve from an exotic novelty to a beloved local favorite.
Local Ingredients and Influences
Eugene’s sushi culture has a unique Pacific Northwest twist. I’ve tasted how chefs use local ingredients to create fusion rolls. Fresh salmon from Oregon rivers often stars in nigiri and sashimi dishes.
Eugene sushi restaurants often feature:
- Wild-caught Pacific seafood
- Locally grown vegetables
- Oregon wasabi
- Craft sake from nearby breweries
I’ve noticed a trend of vegetarian and vegan sushi options too. Many places offer rolls with tempeh, tofu, and locally grown mushrooms. This reflects Eugene’s eco-friendly mindset.
Some chefs even experiment with unconventional ingredients like hazelnuts or marionberries. It’s exciting to see how Eugene’s sushi scene keeps evolving while honoring traditional Japanese techniques.
Tips for Enjoying Sushi
Eating sushi can be a fun experience. I’ll share some advice to help you get the most out of your next sushi meal in Eugene.
Choosing the Right Pairings
I think pairing drinks with sushi enhances the flavors.
Sake goes well with sushi, especially chilled varieties. Green tea is also a great choice. It cleanses the palate between bites.
For non-alcoholic options, I like to order sparkling water or iced oolong tea. They don’t overpower the delicate fish flavors.
When it comes to food pairings, I suggest trying:
- Miso soup as a starter
- Edamame for a light snack
- Tempura vegetables for crunch
Sushi Etiquette
I find that following some basic sushi etiquette makes the meal more enjoyable. Here are my top tips:
- Use chopsticks for sushi rolls, but eat nigiri with your hands.
- Dip the fish side of nigiri in soy sauce, not the rice.
- Eat each piece in one bite if possible.
I always avoid rubbing my chopsticks together – it’s seen as rude.
When taking a break, I rest my chopsticks on the holder or across my plate.
It’s okay to ask the chef for recommendations. They know what’s freshest that day.
I like to sit at the sushi bar when I can. It’s fun to watch the chefs work their magic.
