Sonoma might not be known for its sushi in the same way it’s known for its wine, but that does not mean there aren’t some incredible places to get a high-quality nigiri or expertly prepared roll all across Sonoma County. Whether you want fancy or casual, a celebratory meal or just a family dinner, our list covers all your bases.
Feature Photo: @sushibyscratchrestaurants on Facebook
150 Main St, Point Arena
707.485.9232
This coastal Japanese bar prioritizes local and seasonal ingredients, resulting in an ever-changing menu, ensuring that your fish is so fresh it might as well have jumped right out of the ocean and onto your plate. They also offer an impressive selection of sake, beer and wine that’s designed to pair perfectly with anything that might end up on the menu. Additionally, the owners are proud donors to the Japanese American Citizens League, as well as give back to the community. Hours are 4 to 9 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 4 to 8 p.m. on Sundays. They are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
106 Matheson St, Inside the Matheson, Healdsburg
707.579.7916
With Sushi by Scratch restaurants in major cities all across the country and praise from the Michelin Guide, it’s not hard to see why it consistently gets diners queuing up for a chance to get reservations. Book a seating for a birthday, anniversary or special night out, and get ready for an intimate dining experience where the chefs walk you through each bite of tender fish and novel flavor combinations. Hours are 3:30 to 1o p.m. every day except Mondays and Tuesdays, on which they are closed.
335 Healdsburg Ave, Healdsburg
707.395.0487
Asahi offers two different dining concepts — a casual small plates and sushi rolls service half of the week, and then a more luxurious omakase style service for the other days. Whichever you prefer, you’re guaranteed to get something delicious, whether that’s a glistening portion of New Zealand king salmon nigiri or their Crazy Ninja Roll with shiso, spicy tuna and Hamachi. They’re also always offering up a new special, so make sure to check that out when you go! Hours are 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday through Wednesday and 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 to 8:45 p.m. Thursday through Saturday.
8710 Old Redwood Hwy, Windsor
707.838.6700
Though Ume Bistro might look like an average Japanese restaurant, it’s hiding big flavors. Their menu includes a number of eclectic options like margarita poppers with daikon and wasabi mayo, or their Pink Panther roll with a soybean wrap. They also offer various sushi bar combinations with house specials and chef selections. Make sure to get a seat outside, as their patio dining is a beautiful option on a warm Sonoma day. Hours are 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 4:30 to 9 p.m. on Saturdays. They are closed on Sundays.