Sakura Restaurant and Sushi Bar

Through fifteen years and three locations, Sakura owner Miyoko Omori has kept St. Paul swimming in top-grade sushi. In a high-ceilinged room with expansive windows, she and her staff serve up artful takes on classic Japanese fare, drawing a dining crowd that ranges from Lowertown loft dwellers to traveling classical musicians–don’t be surprised if you see a cello case patiently waiting while its owner scarfs down some mirugai (jumbo clam) or uni (sea urchin) nigiri. The place also has mean miso, terrific tempura, and some serious sake, in addition to lunchtime bento-box meals that have made many a downtown office worker’s day. 350 St. Peter St., St. Paul; 651-224-0185