Bamboo Sushi Opening in Bend

A big, bold sign hanging in the window of a vacant restaurant space on Oregon Avenue in downtown Bend announces the future location of Bamboo Sushi. Marketing Manager Ava Brenneke says if all goes well, the restaurant will open in late December. The company has 10 locations, including six in the Portland area, as well as Washington, California and Colorado. Bamboo Sushi is also opening a new location in Kirkland, Washington. Brenneke says the company has wanted to open in Bend for awhile.

Bamboo Sushi credits its hospitality and creativity for its success. *Courtesy Bamboo Sushi*

“The city’s strong sense of community, growing food scene, and appreciation for sustainability align closely with our values,” she told the Source. In 2008, Bamboo Sushi became, what the company says, is the world’s first certified sustainable sushi restaurant.

“We focus on responsibly sourced seafood that is ethically caught. We do so in an effort to help maintain oceans and fisheries that are healthy for generations to come,” Brenneke explains. “We work with two globally recognized third-party organizations — the Marine Stewardship Council and the Aquaculture Stewardship Council. They certify that select species are sourced according to rigorous environmental and social standards and they audit the entire chain of custody — from the fisher, to the distributor, to our restaurants — ensuring that nothing is broken along the way.” According to its website, Bamboo Sushi contributes 1% of its sales of the Green Machine Roll and Sushi Boards to environmental nonprofits.

Bamboo Sushi has 10 locations with plans to open two more including Bend. *Courtesy Bamboo Sushi*

Once open, the Bend location will be open for lunch and dinner. Brenneke says the menu will be similar to what’s being offered in Portland. “Our menu highlights beautifully crafted signature rolls, inventive small plates, seasonal dishes and it’s almost entirely gluten-free,” she told the Source. “We also offer a wide variety of vegetarian options and a dedicated kids’ menu, so no matter who joins you at the table, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Bamboo Sushi has been voted the Best Sushi in Willamette Week’s Best of Portland four consecutive years. “Our menu is both inventive and inviting, but it’s really the connection with our guests that keeps us inspired,” Brenneke says. “More than anything, we’re just incredibly excited to join the Bend community. We can’t wait to welcome our new neighbors and start building lasting connections here.”