Wende H.
Yelp
A Deeply Disappointing and Repeated Experience with Discrimination
I'm Black, originally from East Africa, and have lived in beautiful Oregon since 2018. While I've always hoped to avoid racism, my repeated experiences at Ohana Sushi have been deeply upsetting.
Ohana is close to my apartment and a regular hangout spot near Peet's Coffee. The first time I sensed something was off was a few years ago -- subtle but unmistakable. I was alone and tried to rationalize it as a long day for the staff.
The second time, I went with a friend (also East African), and we were treated with blatant disrespect by the same two staff members -- a man and a woman. It felt very clear it was due to our accents and skin color. My friend even addressed it directly. After that, I stopped going for a long time.
Post-COVID, I returned a few times and didn't see the same staff. I was treated well and hoped the past was behind me. But in 2024, I unfortunately encountered them again -- and once again, I experienced cold, unwelcoming behavior. Whispering behind me in another language, laughing while looking at me -- the message was clear, even if not verbal.
But what happened on Memorial Day 2025 was the last straw.
Craving sushi, I considered other spots, but they were closed. Against my gut feeling, I walked into Ohana -- and saw the same male staff member. I tried to avoid him, but he approached to take my order. I asked for water and some ginger. Instead of simply helping, he gave me a long, uncomfortable stare and pressed me repeatedly to order more. When I said I was fine, he muttered something in Japanese and then asked why I still come to the restaurant -- a statement that felt like a clear dismissal of my presence.
I stood up feeling deeply unwelcome and angry. None of the other staff intervened or showed any concern. I've also noticed how African American customers are treated there -- especially if they're alone or not accompanied by someone white.
It's 2025 -- and no one should have to feel this way.
Needless to say, I will not be returning. But I'm sharing this review because staying silent only protects those who think this behavior is acceptable. We all deserve dignity and respect -- regardless of where we come from or what we look like.