Craving authentic Japanese cuisine in South Jersey? You're in luck! A popular restaurant chain just threw open its doors, promising a feast of flavors that'll transport you straight to Tokyo. Sakura Japanese Steak House, known for its extensive menu, recently debuted in Camden County, bringing with it a tsunami of sushi, teriyaki, and hibachi goodness.
Published on January 10, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. by the Advance Local Express Desk and Stephanie Loder of NJ Advance Media for NJ.com, this exciting news is sure to tantalize taste buds across the region.
Sakura officially opened its doors on January 2nd in Somerdale, breathing new life into the former 814 South Pub location on South White Horse Pike, near the intersection of Lafayette Avenue. Many locals will remember 814 South's closure last year, but Sakura promises a fresh start for this prime spot.
But here's the exciting part: Sakura isn't just a local gem; it's part of a growing empire! This new Somerdale location marks Sakura's 14th restaurant overall and its second in the Garden State. You can find their other New Jersey location in Mays Landing. This expansion suggests a solid reputation and a commitment to quality.
Stepping inside Sakura is like entering a new world. The interior has been completely remodeled, boasting an open and airy dining room. At the heart of the restaurant, you'll find a central sushi kitchen and prep area, where skilled chefs work their magic. It’s a visual treat as much as it is a culinary one!
Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the menu. Prepare to be overwhelmed (in the best way possible) by the sheer variety! From refreshing seaweed salad, delicate shumai and miso soups, and melt-in-your-mouth tataki tuna to an impressive array of sushi, there's something for everyone. And, of course, no Japanese steakhouse is complete without savory teriyaki and sizzling hibachi dishes.
For noodle lovers, Sakura offers tempting teppanyaki options, including vegetable teppanyaki and your choice of shrimp or chicken teppanyaki.
And this is the part most people miss... the customization! When you order hibachi or teriyaki, you get to choose your protein: chicken, steak, scallops, shrimp, or even tofu for the vegetarians out there. All entrees are served with flavorful Japanese fried rice and a side of vegetables, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
Don't forget about dessert! Sakura tempts you with sweet treats like mochi rice cake, classic ice cream, and decadent bomba cake.
Want to enjoy Sakura from the comfort of your own home? No problem! Customers can easily order online for takeout or delivery through the Sakura Japanese Steak House website.
Sakura is open from 11 a.m. to 9:15 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9:15 p.m. on Sunday. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a late-night snack!
Beyond New Jersey, Sakura also has locations in Maryland, Virginia, and California, proving its widespread appeal.
The original news article also mentioned unrelated sports forecasts, including "Chargers-Patriots playoffs: Rain early, brutal wind expected in AFC Wild Card cold snap," "Eagles-49ers playoffs: Wind, cold loom over NFC Wild Card matchup at the Linc," and "Bills-Jaguars playoffs: Forecast turns tricky for AFC Wild Card game." These are clearly separate topics and unrelated to the restaurant opening.
Finally, it's worth noting that the Advance Local Express Desk utilizes AI tools to assist in content creation, but all content is reviewed and edited by human staff. Advance Local is the parent company of various news outlets, including AL.com, Cleveland.com, and lehighvalleylive.com.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue that using AI in journalism, even with human oversight, could lead to a decline in the quality and originality of reporting. What do you think? Are you excited about Sakura's arrival in Somerdale, or are you concerned about the increasing role of AI in news production? Share your thoughts in the comments below! Do you believe a large menu guarantees quality, or is it better to focus on a smaller range of dishes? Let's discuss!
