Flagstaff is a northern Arizona city known for its ranches, railroad companies and close proximity to a number of tourist destinations. It's a popular settling point for people looking to head to the nearby Grand Canyon or its lesser known cousin Oak Creek Canyon. It's nestled against Route 66 and has become a popular town to stay in for those traveling the historic road. Flagstaff is also home to a number of sushi restaurants that attract locals as well as visitors.
Hiro’s Sushi Bar & Grill boasts being the largest sushi bar in Flagstaff, as well as one of the most celebrated. Most recently, it won Best Sushi and Best Family Dining from the Arizona Daily Sun. Walk into the restaurant, and you will find a casual dining room that can seat up to 150 people, decorated in a traditional style. Order a round of sake or sample one of the Japanese beers before digging in. The restaurant offers plenty of traditional menu items, such as Gyoza, Edamame, and Age Tofu. There are over 20 types of nigiri sushi and over 40 rolls to choose from, so there is certainly something for everyone. Japanese cuisine is also available, with Teriyaki Chicken, Beef and Salmon reigning supreme. Don’t forget to take a look in the Japanese gift shop for a souvenir.
Hiro's Sushi Bar & Grill
1312 S. Plaza Way
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-226-8030
www.hiroflag.com
Flagstaff never had a sushi restaurant until Sakura opened in 1990. Today, it's still a part of the Radisson Woodlands Hotel and attracts locals and visitors. Food & Wine magazine gave it the distinction of being one of the Best Restaurants in the Southwest, despite it taking a while to catch on in a town not used to the idea of sushi. Today, Sakura offers fresh fish and a number of rolls, including Vegetable, Spider, JB and Snake rolls. They can be washed down with green tea, hot sake, or a cold beer. If you happen to be eating with someone who doesn’t like sushi, there is a hot plate of traditional Japanese cuisine, which includes fresh seafood dishes, great Japanese steaks and popular Chicken Teriyaki dishes. Sakura has two choices for seating--the sushi bar or a communal Teppan table, where the chefs cook right in front of you.
Sakura
1175 West Route 66
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-773-9118
www.sakuraflagstaffsushi.com
Karma is a fairly typical sushi restaurant right across from the Flagstaff visitor’s center. It attracts more of a college crowd than a tourist one. The food is affordable and plentiful, and it's available for lunch and dinner. Although Karma hasn’t won any awards like other sushi restaurants in town, it received a positive review from the New York Times. For lunch, try one of the bento boxes, which include a soup and salad, vegetable tempura, four pieces of California roll and your choice of a main dish, such as sushi, teriyaki meats and fish or vegetarian choices. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and offers discounted drinks and sushi rolls. At night, Karma is a popular and active little restaurant, perfect for dinner.
Karma
6 East Route 66
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
928-774-6100
www.karmaflagstaff.com
