Restaurant Review: Sakura (Hagerstown, MD)

The Four State Food Critic got together with friends last Friday night for some good food and conversation.  I have to admit that I was a bit surprised that the group decided on sushi, as Mrs. FSFC and I often have trouble finding folks who want to enjoy food that most of our friends refer to as “bait”.

Our destination was Sakura, one of our local Japanese favorites.  We ordered off of the sushi menu, selecting a variety of sushi (fish with rice), sashimi (fish without rice), and several rolls.  (FSFC Tip:  There is an abundance of choices in rolls as well as sushi and sashimi by the piece, so ask a server for help if you’re confused and need some explanations.)  If you are not into sushi, Sakura also offers an extensive menu of other Japanese favorites, like noodle bowls, teriyaki, katsu, and tempura (the FSFC has sampled these selections on previous visits, and all have been good).  There is also a separate Hibachi bar (the communal dining tables where the chef cooks in front of you), which is also a fun dining experience.  Beer, wine, sake, and soft drinks are also available.

Everything was fresh, tasty, and served in that impeccably artistic manner that all sushi chefs seem to be taught from birth.  We sampled eel, roe (fish eggs), tempura shrimp, and sea urchin.  The yellowtail and tuna were excellent, the salmon was “melt in your mouth” buttery, and the Dragon roll was particularly spicy and flavorful.  We also had starters of miso soup and a house salad (love that ginger dressing).

Service was efficient and polite.  The FSFC gives extra marks to our server, who handled a party of eight like a pro.  The atmosphere is nice in the dining room, where gentle music plays in the background and the décor features tables and booths with clean lines accompanied by traditional Japanese prints that line the walls.

If you enjoy sushi (or any type of Japanese cuisine) then Sakura is an excellent choice.

The Four Star Food Critic Review (Each category has a possible “best out of 5” rating)

Atmosphere: 3.5

Food: 4 

Price: $$$-$$$$ 

Service: 4

Overall: 3.5  

                                 

Sakura offers carry-out service, free delivery (limited area), and they even offer a Sunday brunch.

Location:                                                                                              

102 Railway Line (right off of Wesel Blvd)                 

Hagerstown, MD  21740                                               

(301) 393-8680                                                             

www.sakurahagerstown.com