From the outside, it's impossible to detect any traces of the McDonald's it once was, and on the inside, the subdued and tasteful decor is immediately inviting. Simple black furniture contrasts with plain white walls decorated with intricate woodcuts by Kiyoshi Saito. Named after a popular Japanese flower, Sakura seats 100 people and presents an uncomplicated and pleasant backdrop for delicious, consistently well-prepared Japanese food. The menu is built around steakhouse offerings, about which owner-chef Ming Cao knows a great deal. Cao and his wife sold their successful, 11-year old Kobe Steak House in Roanoke two years ago and decided to open another place with a similar menu.
All cooking is done in the kitchen.
Cao and his wife are originally from Shanghai, China, and have been in Roanoke for 12 years. In keeping with Japanese steakhouse custom, tables are set with forks but no knives. This creates a delightful opportunity for diners to polish their chopstick skills on the bite-sized pieces of meat. On the tables are two small plates, one containing a creamy sauce to use with seafood, the other dark and aromatic with ginger and intended to enhance beef and poultry. There's plenty to eat and enjoy, and prices are moderate.