Asian Invasion

“I’m craving sushi!” was the consensus of my friends this Sunday afternoon. The Redskins lost (again) and clocks were set back so it felt late but we were still motivated for a dinner out.  We had no doubt in our minds on where to go for the best sushi in Bethesda. This place never fails to please our cravings. It's a one of a kind spot called Raku and it's right in the heart of Bethesda. It was a busy night, as usual, and there was no available tables but we found seats at the bar and settled in there. Raku offers a variety of Asian fusion type food but tonight our focus was on sushi.  I ordered the Rainbow Roll (a California roll with sashimi and avocado wrapped around it) and shared a side of chicken and pork dumplings. My friend, Dani, ordered the crunchy spicy tuna roll with tuna sashimi and shared the dumplings. My other friend, Missy, got the california roll with a side of rice. Dani loved her spicy tuna roll and said “The sushi was very satisfying. I was craving sushi and it hit the spot! The spicy tuna roll gets a kick from the sriracha but it is evened out with the coolness from the rice and tuna.” Missy described her meal as “boring" yet if still satisfied the craving. She elaborated by saying, "you don’t need to have an exotic meal to have a good meal.”  My rainbow roll was subtle with fresh pieces of fish and was well complimented by the salty soy sauce. The dumplings came on top of a pineapple star anise sauce. They were quite good.  Raku is one on my Bethesda favorites because the food is consistently delicious and there is almost always a good vibe going on.

Eat here maybe? Yes

7240 Woodmont Avenue  
Bethesda, MD 20814


(301) 718-8681

Crunchy Spicy Tuna Roll with shashimi

 Rainbow Roll

California Roll with side of rice

Chicken and Pork Dumplings