The Bling Dental team is always looking for a new spot in the Pearl District to try out, and this month Lynda, who's been a wonderful hygienist with us for two years, took one for the team and checked out Momoyama, a Japanese restaurant known for its fresh fish and traditional flavors. After a recommendation from Dr. Katie, Lynda was ready to satisfy a sushi craving.

📍 Momoyama

Monday: Dinner from 5pm to 10pm
Friday & Saturday: Lunch 11:30am to 2:30pm / Dinner 5pm to 10:30pm
Sun, Weds, Thurs: Lunch 11:30am to 2:30pm / Dinner 5pm to 10:30pm
Address: 1022 Northwest Johnson St, Portland, OR 97209
Reviews: Over 500 Google Reviews | 4.6 Average Rating

First Impressions
Walking into Momoyama for the first time, Lynda immediately noticed the balance of modern and traditional design. The space felt chic and refined but not overdone. She made a reservation and was seated right away. The restaurant features large, comfortable booths that offer a bit of privacy, creating an intimate and relaxed dining experience. The ambiance felt calm and intentional, setting the tone for a meal meant to be savored.

The Menu Line-Up
Wanting to try a variety of rolls, Lynda ordered an array of sushi. From the very first bite, it was clear that freshness was the star of the show. The fish tasted incredibly clean and delicate, and the rice was perfectly seasoned. Nothing was drenched in heavy sauces or masked with too many toppings. Instead, each piece highlighted the quality of the fish itself.

“You can tell the chefs really take their time preparing each dish,” Lynda shared. “Everything felt intentional.”

Her standout favorite of the evening was the salmon belly nigiri. The salmon was buttery, fresh, and quite literally melted in her mouth. It was so good, she had to order more. “Whatever you do,” she said, “don’t let them take the salmon belly nigiri off the menu.”

One of the biggest surprises of the night was the uni. Typically not a fan, Lynda decided to give it another chance since everything else tasted so fresh. In the past, she found uni too salty and overwhelmingly “ocean-like.” But here, it was creamy, slightly sweet, and rich in the best way possible. A delightful surprise that completely changed her mind.

The Feel of the Evening

The service matched the quality of the food. The staff was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu, offering thoughtful recommendations without being intrusive. Dishes arrived in a timely manner, and everything felt seamless from start to finish. The ambiance truly enhanced the experience. The chic interior paired with traditional Japanese elements made the evening feel relaxed and elevated at the same time.

Final Thoughts from Lynda

If she had to describe the meal in one word? FRESH.

Lynda would absolutely recommend Momoyama to anyone who appreciates simple, high-quality sushi done well.

“It’s perfect for anyone who really values quality ingredients and traditional flavors,” she said.

For a first visit, Momoyama made a big impression. Between the freshness, thoughtful preparation, and warm atmosphere, it’s safe to say Lynda will be back the next time a sushi craving hits. Come back next month where another Bling team member will try out another unique restaurant in our corner!

“Neighborhood Bites” – Momoyama