ONTARIO — Wokano Sushi and Japanese Steakhouse moved down the street last month. But the restaurant formally celebrated the move Tuesdasy with a ribbon cutting ceremony at the former Ninja Steak House, at 2284 W. Fourth St.
“They are a mainstay in Richland County,” said Richland Area Chamber of Commerce president Jodie Perry. “Everybody loves coming to Wokano for a good meal.”
Mayor of Ontario Randy Hutchinson agreed, noting he often sees Wokano’s parking lot full.
“It’s a continued investment in Ontario, so we really appreciate that. They did a great business down on Fourth Street and just moved a little further west,” he said.
Wokano was located at 2067 W. Fourth St., and moved to 2284 W. 4th St., where it sits directly beside Huntington Bank and across from the Avita Ontario Hospital.
The owners, Rachel Chen and Paul Xiao, cited the building’s size as their reason to move.
“We have 10 hibachi tables over here, so the other place we only had six,” Chen said.
She hopes it will allow for improved customer service.
“Usually they had to wait about an hour at the other (location) … We try to be better, so that people don’t wait too long,” she said.
Wokano offers both dine-in and carry-out options. The menu highlights sushi, shumai and specialties like quail eggs.
The restaurant first opened locally in 2006 after the owners moved to Mansfield from New York. They followed a friend to the area.
“It’s nice. It’s quieter. I really enjoy it here,” Chen said.
Wokano’s hours are 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 9:30 p.m. Sunday.
For more information, find Wokano on Facebook or call 419-529-6569.
