Finding great sushi in Medford is both an adventure and a reward for your taste buds. While you won’t find conveyor belts or Tokyo-level flash, Medford’s sushi scene thrives on creativity, quality, and that Pacific Northwest approach where chefs actually care whether what’s on your plate tastes as fresh as it looks. I remember my first Medford sushi roll—a delicate, expertly sliced affair that blended local flavors with classic technique. It’s surprising how much you can taste in a simple nigiri when the rice is just right and the fish isn’t pretending to be something it’s not.
Searching for the best spot in town means looking past generic menus and franchise flash. Whether you’re a sushi beginner or a rice-savvy regular, Medford’s sushi shops offer a satisfying mix: cozy atmospheres, chefs with big personalities, and enough options to nudge even the most cautious eater into something new. The following list brings together the standouts, from tucked-away gems to reliable go-tos—each one vetted, visited, and vouched for by people who know their yellowtail from their tamago. Let’s start this journey roll by roll.
1. Bonsai Teriyaki & Sushi
Bonsai Teriyaki & Sushi feels like a best-kept secret on E Barnett Road. The unpretentious vibe puts you at ease, whether you’re dining solo or with friends. My first visit left a lasting impression—a sushi roll sliced with real care, served by staff who seem to know their regulars by name.
What sets Bonsai apart is the dedication to craft. The portions are generous but never sloppy, and presentation always gets a bit of extra attention. The sushi rice finds that balance: tender, lightly seasoned, and never overwhelming the fish.
Try their Bonsai Roll for something lively, or the delicate Salmon Nigiri for a simple showcase of quality. If you’re after freshness, you won’t be disappointed here.
2. New Sakura
+1 541-816-4899
New Sakura sits quietly on Crater Lake Ave, but there’s nothing quiet about its sushi. Dining here, you can count on crisp flavors and a comfortable, laid-back setting. On my last visit, the chef worked behind the counter with easy confidence, turning out rolls that looked almost too good to eat.
What makes New Sakura special is its thoughtful approach to even the simplest dishes. The quality of the fish and the precision in each cut tell you everything you need to know.
Go straight for their Avocado Roll for something light, or test their skill with the Rainbow Roll. Both deliver subtlety and freshness without trying too hard. The menu keeps things approachable, but New Sakura’s care shines through with every bite.
3. Shinsei Sushi
Shinsei Sushi brings a modern energy to Rossanley Drive, but never loses its warmth. The dining room is bright, the staff is quick to offer suggestions, and the menu feels genuinely inviting. My first meal here started with miso soup and ended with me planning my return visit.
What separates Shinsei Sushi is its balance of tradition and inventiveness. You’ll spot both clever fusion rolls and classic options that highlight technique over trend. Everything arrives with thoughtful presentation, as if the chef took a quiet moment just for your plate.
I recommend the Shinsei Roll—a wonderful example of their playfulness, while the Tuna Nigiri reminds you just how important quality is here. Shinsei delivers satisfaction, one well-crafted piece at a time.
4. Tosu Ramen + Sushi
Tosu Ramen + Sushi has a way of making simplicity taste exciting. The open kitchen buzzes, promising plates crafted with care and local ingredients. My most memorable visit involved watching a chef torch a roll by hand, the aroma hinting at just how fresh everything would be.
Where Tosu truly shines is attention to detail. The menu blends sushi tradition with a playful edge, all while staying true to clean flavors and unhurried presentation. Sushi arrives artfully arranged, with every bite honoring its ingredient.
Don’t skip the Veggie Roll for something fresh—its layers are thoughtful, not just thrown together. For purists, the Salmon Nigiri highlights Tosu’s commitment to quality. This is sushi that caters to the senses and never feels rushed.
5. Misoya Bistro
Misoya Bistro blends the energy of downtown Medford with a cozy, laid-back feel. The patio is a great spot, especially if you enjoy people-watching before a show at the Craterian. My first meal there started late but stretched out, lingering over each course and taking in the lively atmosphere.
What sets Misoya apart is the variety and inclusivity in its menu. Sushi here is never an afterthought. Choices range from simple nigiri to inventive rolls, and there’s always a vegan-friendly option close by.
The Cucumber Avocado Roll is a classic worth trying, and for a bit more flair, the Misoya Signature Roll stands out for freshness and visual appeal. Expect sushi that matches the bistro’s inviting, creative spirit.
6. Shiki Sushi & Asian Fusion
Shiki Sushi & Asian Fusion takes a modern approach, matching downtown Medford’s energy. The décor strikes a balance between sleek and welcoming, and the aroma of fresh rice and ginger greets you at the door. My last visit brought a surprise—creative rolls not found anywhere else in town.
Shiki stands out by blending classic flavors with Asian fusion twists. There’s a sense of adventure in every menu page, but the chefs don’t sacrifice freshness for flair. Their commitment shows in the texture and vibrancy of each bite.
The Shiki Garden Roll is crisp, bright, and ideal for vegetarians. For something truly unique, order the Fusion Roll. It offers bold flavors without masking what’s best about great sushi: balance and precision.
7. Oh’s Osaka
Oh’s Osaka draws you in with its quiet charm and a simple sign that hints at what’s inside. This spot manages to transport you, even briefly, with its cozy booths and subtle hospitality. My first visit felt like being let in on a local secret; the chef behind the counter flashed a grin and got straight to work.
Here, sushi is handled with old-school precision. Nothing is rushed, yet your order still arrives in that sweet spot between anticipation and impatience. Portions lean generous, and the fish always tastes straightforwardly fresh.
The Cucumber Roll is a crisp, refreshing classic, while their Vegetable Tempura Roll brings a satisfying crunch. Each dish speaks to Oh’s Osaka’s knack for balancing comfort with genuine craft.
8. Oh’s Osaka
This second location of Oh’s Osaka brings the same understated confidence found at the original. It’s a great place for a laid-back dinner when you want a break from loud crowds. My evening here was relaxed, full of soft conversation and the hum of a friendly kitchen.
Consistency is Oh’s Osaka’s signature. Every roll carries the same attention to freshness and presentation, whether you’re a first-timer or a regular. The vibe is quiet and inviting, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Don’t miss the Avocado Roll or the Yam Tempura Roll. Both rolls let the clean flavors shine, and are a testament to the careful hand behind each preparation. It’s familiar, comforting, and always satisfying.
9. Star Sushi II
Star Sushi II stands out for those who want quick, no-nonsense sushi without losing the charm. The space is bright and comfortable, with a steady flow of regulars who clearly trust what’s happening behind the counter. My last lunch here was fast but far from forgettable.
Freshness is at the core of Star Sushi II’s menu. The rice is always just warm enough, and the vegetables used brighten every bite. You won’t find anything needlessly extravagant—just honest, well-made sushi that’s easy to enjoy.
Try the Veggie Roll for a balanced meal, or the Avocado Cucumber Roll for something light and satisfying. Every visit reaffirms why this spot is a trusted go-to in Medford.
10. G’s Bento
G’s Bento is all about comfort and reliability, tucked away on E Main Street. This spot gets busy at lunch for good reason—the portions are hearty, and the sushi is handled with real care. My own midday visits have ended with a full stomach and the feeling of finding a tiny treasure in Medford.
Simplicity is key at G’s Bento. No fuss, no over-the-top menus, just straightforward sushi done well. You’ll spot regulars chatting with the staff, adding to the casual, inviting mood.
The Cucumber Roll or Avocado Roll are go-to choices for a fresh meal. Both reflect G’s Bento’s commitment to honest flavors and great value, making it an easy favorite for sushi fans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sushi spots in Medford are vegetarian or vegan friendly?
Most leading sushi restaurants in Medford offer vegetarian or vegan rolls. Look for cucumber, avocado, and veggie tempura rolls at spots like Shinsei Sushi, Misoya Bistro, and Tosu Ramen + Sushi.
Can I find gluten-free options at Medford sushi restaurants?
Yes, several places provide gluten-free tamari and ingredient substitutions. Misoya Bistro is a standout for gluten-free sushi in particular.
Is sushi in Medford good for takeout?
Absolutely. Restaurants such as Bonsai Teriyaki & Sushi, Star Sushi II, and G’s Bento offer fast, reliable takeout, so you can enjoy sushi on the go or at home.
Are there kid-friendly sushi restaurants in Medford?
Most sushi spots are casual and welcoming to families. New Sakura, G’s Bento, and Oh’s Osaka keep the atmosphere relaxed, and offer familiar sides and simple rolls perfect for kids.
What should I try if I’m new to sushi?
Start with basics like cucumber rolls, avocado rolls, or salmon nigiri. These dishes let you taste the fundamentals without overwhelming flavors, and are available at nearly every sushi spot in town.