When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Sushi Ohana
Why Sushi Ohana is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sushi Ohana represents a vibrant dining destination known for its fresh, innovative sushi offerings and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to meet up with friends. Featuring locations in both Montreal and Portland, this establishment caters to diverse tastes with a particular emphasis on vegan sushi in Montreal and conveyor belt sushi in Portland. In Montreal, Ohana Sushi Vegan has gained acclaim for its creative plant-based sushi rolls, utilizing unique and colorful ingredients like edible flowers, sprouts, and heart-shaped carrots, which not only enhance the flavor but also present an exceptional visual experience. The ambiance supports social gatherings, offering a comfortable yet lively environment conducive to sharing meals and conversation. Meanwhile, the Portland location specializes in conveyor belt sushi, offering a fast, fun, and interactive dining experience where guests can quickly enjoy a wide variety of fresh sashimi and rolls, with particularly generous salmon portions. Both locations provide attentive, friendly service, and the Portland branch even features a happy hour with affordable pricing, enhancing its popularity as a casual meet-up venue. Sushi Ohana’s blend of quality ingredients, creative presentation, and social atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for groups seeking a memorable sushi outing.
Here's what people think of Sushi Ohana
As of recent, Sushi Ohana holds a 4.3-star rating based on 1514 reviews.
User reviews for Sushi Ohana highlight a generally positive reception, with an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on over 1500 reviews. For the Montreal Ohana Sushi Vegan, reviewers frequently praise the inventive and delicious vegan sushi options, emphasizing the quality, variety, and artistic presentation of the dishes. Many noted the friendly and efficient service alongside the generous portions and fair pricing. The creative use of ingredients and the fresh flavors surprised even non-vegans, contributing to the restaurant's strong reputation among diverse diners. In Portland, Sushi Ohana is appreciated for its conveyor belt sushi concept delivering fast and fresh sushi, including ample sashimi-size portions and a lively atmosphere. Positive reviews also mention the accommodating staff who promptly fulfill special requests and highlight the value offered during a happy hour with all plates priced affordably. However, some negative feedback centers on the wait times for special orders at the Portland location and occasional busy periods that might affect service speed. A few reviewers felt that while the quality was good, it was not the absolute best sushi they had experienced, suggesting there might be variability in expectations. In conclusion, the consistent praise for freshness, creativity, and service across locations strongly supports Sushi Ohana as a reputable sushi spot favored by many, especially for those seeking vegan options or quick, enjoyable sushi dining.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Konstantin Angelo
I've been to many sushi places in the state of Oregon, especially Portland, but this place is just like the others. Just another common sushi place. Not bad, not good, but mediocre. It's a place you'd go if you're nearby and craving sushi quickly, straight off the train. Food: 2/5 This place hasrubber chicken and mediocre "crab". That sums it up. But, if you're just out for a night in the town craving seaweed salad and tamago, this is your place. I got the California Roll and Seaweed Salad. The California Roll really wasn't anything special, I had better at other places. The Seaweed Salad on the other hand was amazing, I'd go as far and say delectable. It was juicy and made correctly. My acquaintances got the chicken noodles. She said the chicken was dry. I had a taste and I agreed, it was also rubbery. My other acquaintance got the Seared Salmon and liked it. Obviously the food wasn't anything special, but serves its purpose. Service: 3/5 The service here has some really nice and patience waiters. Though there is one big thing I need to mention, and the reason I gave it a 3: The language barrier. Waiters speak a little bit of English, and had trouble trying to hear what my acquaintances were saying, leading to one of them getting lemonade, instead of their "Ramune". But, they were very nice overall. Atmosphere: 4/5 Besides the "okay" food, the atmosphere was really nice. They had Japanese paintings of people, scriptures, and nice lighting. The only reason this isn't a 5 is because it feels very cramped inside.
Eric Deulen
It is a fairly standard sushi place, BUT they have good food, decent prices and they are nice. I like it, and I do eat here quite often. The staff is nice which is pretty important to me at least.. AND they have served me, even close to closing time, which is REALLY nice when you're starving, or have a date with you or whatever!!
Charlie Anzaldo
Best priced sushi in all of Portland. Not some overpriced, white washed sushi restaurant. (There are many of those in town) It’s refreshing to find fairly priced sushi that is consistent and high quality. I usually sit and eat the conveyor belt sushi. If I ever want something specific, they have it made right away. My go to near my workplace.
MVP MVP
-First time here and food was good, place was not full for a weekend lunch, would be back for the happy hour. -Only thing I didn’t like was, I ordered mussels and they took to long to get to me, and when I received cheese was hard. -There’s parking next to building $4, or you can park by the street for free.
Rachel Darby
Hands down the best conveyor belt sushi in town. They must have a good relationship with their fishmonger! Lots of sustainable options and very well cut generous portions of fish. I have been going here for almost 20 years and I will continue to go back
How to reach Sushi Ohana
None
Website: None
Why Sushi Ohana may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Sushi Ohana with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable meal is about more than just food; it’s about the experience, the atmosphere, and the opportunity to share something special together. Sushi Ohana stands out as an ideal venue for such get-togethers because it combines fresh, tasty sushi served in an engaging and interactive format with a warm, inviting environment that encourages conversation and connection. Rated a strong 4.3 out of 5 from over 1,500 reviews, Sushi Ohana offers a balance of quality and value that makes it accessible and enjoyable for groups seeking a casual yet impressive dining experience. Instead of the formality of a traditional sushi restaurant, Sushi Ohana features a conveyor belt system where plates of sushi continuously circulate, allowing everyone in your party to select exactly what they want when they want it. This interactive dining style creates a dynamic, communal atmosphere perfect for socializing. The variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and appetizers, paired with affordable pricing, means that everyone from sushi novices to seasoned fans can find something to delight their palate. Simply put, Sushi Ohana transforms a meal into a group event that’s fun, flavorful, and flexible enough to accommodate diverse tastes and appetites.
What activities are available at Sushi Ohana for a group meetup?
When your group arrives at Sushi Ohana, the primary activity centers around enjoying sushi served via a conveyor belt—an entertaining way to dine that keeps everyone engaged. Watching the chefs craft fresh sushi behind the scenes adds a culinary theatre element that holds guests’ attention while they await their favorite dishes. This repetitive choice system lets guests pick plates of sushi, sashimi, and sides as they pass by, making it easy for the group to try different items and share favorites. In addition to sushi, delicious sides like seaweed salad and egg rolls provide occasional palate variation without slowing down the flow of conversation. The casual seating arrangement, often in booths around the sushi belt, facilitates easy interaction among friends without the formality that might stifle lively dialogue. The pricing structure, where plates are color-coded according to price and tallied at the end, encourages guests to try a variety of dishes without worrying about overspending. This balance of culinary variety, interactive dining, and social layout makes Sushi Ohana perfect for groups looking to combine shared dining with fun, informal entertainment.
Why is Sushi Ohana perfect for a group meetup compared to other restaurants?
The unique selling point of Sushi Ohana lies in its conveyor belt sushi concept combined with consistently fresh ingredients and an inviting setting tailored for groups. Unlike typical sit-down restaurants where orders are placed at the table, Sushi Ohana’s format allows guests to pick and choose in real-time, fostering a sense of spontaneity and shared discovery that can strengthen bonds within the group. Its reputation for fresh fish and tasty sushi rolls ensures that quality is not sacrificed for convenience, offering an experience that satisfies even more discerning sushi lovers. For groups, this approach reduces the need for complex ordering logistics or long waits, and allows people to eat at their own pace—those wanting a quick bite can grab a few plates, while others can linger over multiple courses. The affordable pricing strategy is particularly advantageous when dining with friends and family, enabling everyone to enjoy a broad range of dishes without concern over rising costs. The cozy, booth-style seating encourages conversation and group cohesion, which larger, more formal restaurants often lack. This combination of atmosphere, quality, price, and interactivity makes Sushi Ohana a top choice for laid-back group dining.
How does the conveyor belt sushi concept enhance your meetup experience at Sushi Ohana?
The conveyor belt sushi format at Sushi Ohana transforms the meal into an interactive event where everyone has agency over their dining choices. Instead of waiting for a waiter to take orders and then wondering about timing and portions, guests watch the sushi glide by on the belt and can select exactly what catches their eye. This continuous movement encourages curiosity and experimentation since diners are able to sample smaller portions of many varieties of sushi and accompaniments without committing to a full order. This dynamic encourages group members to talk about the dishes they pick, share recommendations, and sample each other’s plates, fostering a fun, communal vibe. Additionally, seeing the chefs prepare sushi in real-time adds an element of live culinary performance, increasing anticipation and appreciation for each plate. The color-coded plates linked to pricing also simplify bill splitting and budgeting, reinforcing a stress-free environment for group dining. Overall, the conveyor belt concept enables a casual, engaging, and flexible dining experience that is ideal for social occasions.
What variety of sushi and other dishes can groups expect at Sushi Ohana?
Sushi Ohana offers a broad selection of sushi rolls, sashimi pieces, and complementary side dishes that cater to diverse palates within a group setting. From fresh and flavorful classic sushi options to vegetarian rolls, the menu covers a range of tastes, including lighter bites like seaweed salad and more indulgent items like egg rolls. The freshness of the fish and quality of ingredients make even basic rolls stand out, ensuring that every plate is pleasurable whether it’s a simple cucumber roll or seared tuna. This variety suits groups with mixed sushi preferences, including those less familiar with raw fish who might prefer cooked options and traditional sides. The rotating plates mean that the selection is almost always fresh and new, preventing monotony and inviting diners to try something different every time a plate comes by. Complementing the sushi, the sides offer flavors and textures that balance well with the raw fish, enhancing the overall experience for groups who want a full culinary journey.
How is the service at Sushi Ohana suited to hosting groups and meetups?
Sushi Ohana combines the benefits of self-serve conveyor belt selection with attentive table service to deliver an efficient, group-friendly dining environment. While diners pick off the conveyor belt themselves, servers keep track of orders by the number and color of plates stacked at each table, simplifying billing and reducing confusion about who ordered what. This streamlined approach means that groups do not have to coordinate complex shared orders or wait long periods between dishes. The staff also ensures that the conveyor belt remains stocked with fresh sushi and sides, offering new options frequently so every guest has choices throughout the meal. According to guest reviews, service is generally friendly and responsive, maintaining a comfortable flow without excessive interruptions. This balance of autonomy and support allows groups to focus on enjoying each other’s company while having access to assistance when needed. For group meetups seeking a low-hassle yet attentive experience, Sushi Ohana’s service style hits the mark.
What makes the ambiance and setting at Sushi Ohana conducive to social gatherings?
The ambiance at Sushi Ohana is casual, lively, and designed to promote social interaction, which is vital when hosting a group meetup. The seating is thoughtfully arranged in booths around the sushi conveyor belt, creating an intimate but energetic environment where everyone can see what’s coming down the belt and chat comfortably. Unlike quieter, more formal restaurants, Sushi Ohana embraces a bustling, cheerful vibe that energizes conversations and laughter, giving friends a relaxed space to connect. The open layout and the visual appeal of rotating plates of brightly colored sushi add an interesting sensory element that keeps the mood light and fun. The casual dress code and pricing also lower barriers for different kinds of groups, from families with children to young adults celebrating special occasions. Lighting and decor are subtle yet tasteful, helping strike a balance between cozy and vibrant. In summary, Sushi Ohana fosters an atmosphere that is welcoming and conducive to group enjoyment and shared memories.
Why is Sushi Ohana a good value choice for group dining experiences?
Sushi Ohana offers an excellent value proposition for groups seeking quality sushi without a hefty price tag, a factor often crucial when dining with friends or family. The fixed price categories linked to a color-coded plate system allow diners to control spending in real time by choosing plates that fit their budget. For many guests, meals come in at under $15 per person before tip, which is exceptional when compared to typical sushi restaurant prices. This affordability does not come at the expense of freshness or variety, so groups can enjoy a broad sampling of sushi without financial stress. Additionally, the all-you-can-eat conveyor belt style encourages trying multiple plates and flavors without over-ordering and wasting food. This balance between cost-effectiveness and quality not only appeals to budget-conscious diners but also makes Sushi Ohana attractive for regular group meetups or casual celebrations. Costs are transparent and manageable, letting guests focus on enjoying the meal and each other’s company.
How does Sushi Ohana accommodate dietary preferences and restrictions in groups?
Sushi Ohana caters thoughtfully to various dietary preferences and restrictions, which is key for groups with mixed tastes and nutritional needs. Offering a range of vegetarian options such as cucumber or avocado rolls ensures that those who avoid fish or meat have satisfying choices. The availability of cooked items like egg rolls and seared tuna also supports individuals who prefer or require non-raw sushi options. Unlike many sushi restaurants focused solely on raw fish, Sushi Ohana’s menu diversity allows groups to dine together without concern over limited options for some members. The freshness of ingredients and transparency in preparation add an extra layer of reassurance for those with food sensitivities. This inclusive approach helps groups with varying diets feel comfortable and fully included in the dining experience, making Sushi Ohana a sensible choice for family gatherings, friend meetups, or mixed-age groups.
What are some tips for groups planning their meetup at Sushi Ohana?
To make the most out of your group meetup at Sushi Ohana, consider a few practical tips that enhance the experience. Arrive early or make a reservation if possible, as the restaurant’s popularity can lead to wait times during peak hours. Encourage everyone in the group to try a variety of plates from the conveyor belt to bring out the social aspect of sharing and recommending dishes. Keep a stack of plates visible at your table to help the server tally your bill accurately and remind guests to manage their selections to avoid waste. If someone in your group is new to sushi, start with approachable options like seaweed salad or cooked rolls to ease them in. Finally, embrace the lively atmosphere by engaging with your friends around the rotating sushi and enjoying the mix of conversation and culinary discovery. Following these suggestions will help your group enjoy a seamless, enjoyable dining event at Sushi Ohana.
Overall, Sushi Ohana’s combination of fresh, affordable sushi presented in an interactive conveyor belt style, set in a lively and group-friendly environment, makes it a top destination to rally your friends or family for a memorable dining meetup. Its ability to cater to different tastes, dietary needs, and social dynamics ensures that every guest finds something delightful to enjoy together.