This Oregon Sushi Spot Serves Big Flavor in a Tiny Space

I stumbled into Hamono Sushi on a rainy Portland afternoon and almost walked right past it. Tucked away at 620 SW 9th Ave, this unassuming spot doesn’t scream for attention, but the moment you step inside, it hits differently.

The space is tiny, the vibe intimate, and the sushi? Absolutely next level.

Since opening in 2021, Hamono has quietly changed the game for all-you-can-eat sushi in Oregon. I walked in expecting quantity over quality, but left with both – and an omakase-style experience that blew my mind.

The chefs work just a few feet away, crafting each piece with serious skill. I’ve dragged friends here multiple times, just to watch their jaws drop at the first plate.

This isn’t your typical buffet – it’s sushi done right.

The $100 All-You-Can-Eat Omakase Experience

Let me tell you about the best hundred bucks I’ve spent on food this year. Hamono’s all-you-can-eat omakase is not your typical sushi buffet where you pile up cheap rolls until you regret everything.

This is a sophisticated, chef-driven experience that starts with a structured 14-course flight of premium nigiri, followed by unlimited ordering of whatever caught your eye during that first round. The meal kicks off with a comforting crab miso soup that warms you right up.

Then the magic happens as the chefs present plate after plate of beautifully prepared nigiri, each piece showcasing different fish flown in fresh. You’ll taste things you’ve probably never tried before, and the quality rivals standalone omakase spots that charge twice as much.

After the initial flight, you’re free to order more of your favorites. Want three more pieces of that buttery toro?

Go for it. Obsessed with the A5 wagyu?

Order another round. The price even includes three glasses of sake, which pairs perfectly with the delicate flavors of the fish.

I’ve done traditional omakase experiences across Oregon, and this hybrid approach at Hamono gives you the best of both worlds.

The Intimate Chef’s Counter Setting

Walking into Hamono feels like entering someone’s private dining room. The space is genuinely tiny, with maybe 20 seats total, and most of them are right at the counter where you can watch the chefs work their magic.

I love this setup because you’re not just eating sushi, you’re part of the entire creative process. The chefs are literally arm’s length away, slicing fish, forming rice, and plating each piece with incredible precision.

You can ask questions, watch their techniques, and see the care that goes into every single bite. It’s educational and entertaining all at once.

The decor is simple but beautiful, with delicate flowers hanging from the ceiling that add a touch of elegance without feeling stuffy. The lighting is warm and inviting, creating an atmosphere that’s both romantic and relaxed.

Sure, the tables are close together, and you might overhear your neighbor’s conversation, but that’s part of the charm. Because of the limited space, Hamono fills up fast.

Reservations are absolutely essential, especially for weekend dinner service. I tried walking in once on a Saturday and the wait was over two hours.

Book ahead and save yourself the disappointment.

Premium Fish Selection Flown in Fresh

One bite of the king salmon nigiri here and you’ll understand why people keep coming back. Hamono sources incredibly high-quality fish, much of it flown in directly from Japan, and you can absolutely taste the difference.

The texture is silky, the flavor is clean, and there’s none of that fishy aftertaste you get at lower-tier spots. During my visits, I’ve tried everything from buttery bluefin toro to sweet scallops to rich bara uni that literally melts on your tongue.

The yellowtail snapper has a delicate flavor that’s enhanced with just a touch of citrus. The eel is perfectly glazed and tender.

What impressed me most was the consistency. Every piece of fish was pristine, properly stored, and served at the right temperature.

The chefs know their product inside and out, and they’re happy to explain where each fish comes from and what makes it special. The salmon, which is often a benchmark for sushi quality, was fresh and flavorful, though some reviewers have noted it’s not always the standout star.

Still, with options like A5 wagyu on rice, spicy togarashi-spiced squid, and even fried shrimp head, there’s something adventurous for everyone.

Signature Dishes Worth Ordering Again

Once the omakase flight wraps up, you enter the all-you-can-eat phase, and this is where strategy comes in. I’ve learned which dishes are absolute must-orders, the ones you’ll want seconds and thirds of without question.

The uni toro hand roll is a fan favorite for good reason. Creamy sea urchin mixed with fatty tuna, wrapped in crispy nori, it’s rich and indulgent and worth every calorie.

The toro roll is another standout, packed with that melt-in-your-mouth fatty tuna that costs a fortune elsewhere. Don’t skip the A5 wagyu nigiri.

The marbling on this beef is insane, and when it’s lightly seared and placed on warm rice, the fat renders just enough to create this luxurious, buttery bite. I’ve ordered three rounds of this before and regret nothing.

The spicy edamame is addictive, salty and spicy and perfect for snacking between sushi rounds. The chawanmushi is silky smooth comfort in a cup.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, the fried shrimp head is crunchy, savory, and surprisingly delicious. Some items rotate based on availability, so always ask what’s special that day.

Three Glasses of Sake Included

Part of what makes Hamono such an incredible value is that your meal comes with three glasses of sake, included in that $100 price tag. I’m not talking about bottom-shelf stuff either, these are quality pours that complement the fish beautifully and enhance the entire dining experience.

The sake selection changes, but the staff is knowledgeable and happy to guide you based on your preferences. Prefer something dry and crisp?

They’ve got you. Want something sweeter and more aromatic?

They can accommodate that too. If sake isn’t your thing, you can swap for beer instead, though I highly recommend giving the sake a chance.

The pours are generous, not those tiny thimble-sized servings you sometimes get at other spots. By the time you finish your third glass, you’re pleasantly relaxed and fully immersed in the experience.

The sake helps cleanse your palate between different types of fish, and it adds a celebratory feel to the whole meal. I’ve found that the sake pairing elevates the flavors of the nigiri, especially the richer cuts like toro and salmon belly.

It’s a thoughtful touch that shows Hamono isn’t just about quantity, they’re creating a complete dining experience.

Friendly and Attentive Service

I need to give major props to the service team at Hamono because they’re genuinely wonderful. Despite the restaurant being packed almost every night, the staff manages to stay friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable throughout your entire meal.

They remember your name, keep your water glass filled, and check in at just the right moments without hovering. Several reviews mention servers by name, like Natana and Nate, who clearly take pride in their work and know the menu inside and out.

They can answer questions about the fish, make recommendations based on your preferences, and explain the proper way to eat certain pieces if you’re curious. Honestly, the restaurant could use a couple more front-of-house staff during peak times because I’ve noticed the servers hustling hard to cover the entire floor.

Wait times for refills or additional orders can stretch a bit when it’s slammed, but the team handles it with grace and humor. The owner is often on the floor too, working alongside the staff, which I absolutely love.

It shows a level of commitment and passion that trickles down to the entire team. Everyone seems genuinely happy to be there, and that energy is contagious.

Prime Downtown Portland Location

Hamono sits right in the heart of downtown Portland at 620 SW 9th Ave, Portland, Oregon 97205, making it super convenient if you’re already exploring the city. The location is walkable from tons of hotels, shops, and other attractions, so you can easily make it part of a bigger day out in Oregon’s largest city.

The neighborhood has that classic Portland vibe, a mix of old brick buildings, food carts on nearby corners, and plenty of foot traffic. Parking can be tricky downtown, as it is anywhere in the city center, so I usually either take public transit or use a rideshare to avoid the hassle.

Because it’s downtown, Hamono is easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. There’s no giant neon sign or flashy storefront, just a modest entrance that blends into the block.

But that’s part of the charm, it feels like a secret spot even though it’s becoming increasingly popular. The restaurant is open Wednesday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM for lunch, and Saturday and Sunday from 12:30 to 9 PM.

They’re closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. I recommend calling ahead at 503-863-1683 to confirm hours and make a reservation.

Dessert Options to End Your Meal

After packing away what feels like a million pieces of sushi, you might think you’re done, but hold on because dessert is included too. Hamono offers a few sweet options to cap off your meal, and while they’re not the main event, they’re a nice way to transition out of savory mode.

The green tea basque cheesecake is the clear winner here. It’s creamy, lightly sweet, with that distinct matcha flavor that’s earthy without being bitter.

The texture is smooth and dense, almost like a cross between cheesecake and flan. I’ve ordered this every single time, and it’s consistently delicious.

The mochi ice cream is solid but nothing groundbreaking, it tastes like the kind you’d buy at the grocery store, which isn’t bad, just not particularly special. The Japanese sweet potato ice cream has a unique flavor that’s subtly sweet and nutty, though it’s not for everyone.

I found it interesting but not something I’d order again. Honestly, by the time dessert arrives, I’m usually so full that I can barely manage more than a few bites.

But the green tea cheesecake is light enough that it doesn’t feel heavy, and it provides a nice palate cleanser after all that fish and rice.

Best Value Omakase in Oregon

Let’s talk value because this is where Hamono absolutely crushes it. I’ve eaten at high-end omakase restaurants across Oregon and beyond, and I’ve easily dropped $200 to $300 per person for a similar quality experience.

At Hamono, you’re paying $100, and that includes the omakase flight, unlimited additional sushi, three glasses of sake, and dessert. It’s almost too good to be true.

The all-you-can-eat format means you can try things you might normally skip due to cost. Want to taste bluefin toro but don’t want to pay $15 per piece?

Here, it’s included. Curious about A5 wagyu but hesitant to splurge?

Order as much as you want. This freedom to explore without worrying about the bill adds a whole new dimension to the experience.

Some people worry that all-you-can-eat automatically means lower quality, but Hamono proves that’s not the case. The fish is fresh, the rice is perfectly seasoned, and the presentation is beautiful.

You’re not sacrificing anything by choosing this spot over a traditional omakase. Given the quality, the quantity, the service, and the overall experience, I genuinely believe Hamono offers the best value omakase in the entire state of Oregon.

Book your table now before they raise the price.