Izumi: The South Hill Sushi Spot That Feels Like Family
Izumi isn’t just another sushi place—it’s the sushi place. Known for its warm hospitality and unforgettable food, it’s the kind of restaurant where the staff remembers your order and your story. That level of personal connection is part of what makes Izumi such a standout in Spokane’s dining scene.
The restaurant offers a full-service bar, a dedicated sushi bar, and a spacious seating area that makes it perfect for both casual nights out and special occasions. From the food to the service to the drinks, everything feels carefully designed to deliver a five-star experience. On my visit, every detail was spot on, creating a dining atmosphere that was equal parts fun and elevated.
Here’s a glimpse of what we ordered: the pan-fried pork dumplings, a tiger roll (yes, the entire thing disappeared quickly), black pepper beef paired with fried rice, and of course, Izumi’s famous fried rice on its own. The menu is extensive, and the servers are always ready to guide you toward their favorites, like the Las Vegas roll, Cowboy roll, Modern Style Salmon, or even fresh oysters. Each dish showcases the restaurant’s commitment to quality, with house-made sauces and in-house breading that elevate every bite.
One of the most refreshing aspects of Izumi is the culture inside the restaurant. The staff are not only welcoming to customers but clearly enjoy working alongside each other. Smiles, high-fives, and laughter flow freely, which speaks volumes about the atmosphere owners Yan and George have cultivated since opening in 2016. Many employees have stayed with the restaurant for years, a rarity in the industry, and a testament to Izumi’s positive work environment.
Yan and George chose Spokane’s South Hill for their restaurant because of their love for the community, and it shows. They’ve built more than just a place to eat—they’ve built a local gathering spot where people feel at home. Whether you’re a sushi devotee or simply in search of a welcoming neighborhood spot with great food, Izumi is a must-visit.
