Restaurateurs looking for a coveted Church Street space, be advised: According to proprietor Ron Takahashi, the owners of Sakura of Japan Inc., which runs Sakura Bana Japanese Restaurant, have decided not to renew its lease when it expires this winter. Takahashi isn’t yet certain when Burlington’s oldest sushi spot will close for good, but guesses it will be in January or February.
To prepare for the closure, the menu at Sakura has been streamlined, offering the same dishes at both lunch and dinner, with smaller portions and prices at the earlier meal. Sushido in Williston, also owned by Sakura of Japan Inc., will remain open, serving ultra-fresh rolls and homestyle cooked meals.
This article appears in Nov 23-29, 2011.
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someone please put a legit korean restaurant here. if not korean, at least don’t put another burger or mexican place.
Agreed. Korean BBQ and sam gyop sal would kill it in this town.
oh no. Where am I going to eat? This is really sad. Sakura has been the most reliable, best sushi place for many years.Maybe they’ll reconsider?
What a shame. This was the first sushi place in town and such a great addition to the Church Street restaurant scene.
i’m with connie and monica! this is devastating news. in a town haunted by trendy and hip and horrible restaurants, sakura was my rock! it disappoints me that places like sweetwaters flourish while an amazing japanese/sushi restaurant at the other end of downtown church is closing. ugh. so many restaurants, so few dependable for great food and service…and now one less!
Sorry to hear that. Such a great place, just ate there on Tuesday night with family and friends for my daughter’s 18th birthday. It was delicious!! I will miss them! Wishing them the best and offering my appreciation and heartfelt thanks for their years of service!
Sad news. I’ve had excellent sushi at San Sai down by the lake which opened recently, but always a shame to see institutions go away.