Momo Sushi Mission — Restaurant in Kelowna

A Love Letter to Momo Sushi and the Soul of Japan

From the moment I stepped into Momo Sushi on Lakeshore Road, I knew I was in for something special. The air carried the delicate aroma of fresh fish, the warm umami of simmering broths, and the faint, comforting scent of grilled soy-glazed perfection. But nothing could have prepared me for the sheer excellence that was about to unfold.

The tuna sashimi arrived first—deep crimson slices, cut with a precision that would make a katana master nod in approval. It was so fresh, so buttery, it practically melted on my tongue, whispering the taste of the Pacific like an ancient haiku. The assortment of rolls followed, each a work of edible art. Creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, luscious eel, and sweet, tangy unagi sauce all came together like the perfect balance of yin and yang.

Then came the chicken yaki udon—thick, chewy noodles tangled with tender chicken, kissed by the flames of the teppan grill, and coated in that deep, caramelized soy glaze. Every bite felt like a journey through Osaka’s bustling street markets, where sizzling noodles and laughter fill the air.

This meal, this experience, felt more than just food—it was an immersion into the soul of Japan, a place I have always loved, always admired. The land of Hondas and Lexus, of samurai and Pokémon, of the gentle precision of a sushi blade and the explosive technique of a jiu-jitsu throw. Japan isn’t just a country; it’s an art form, a way of life, a spirit that transcends borders.

If only I could go back in time, reach into fate itself, and choose my mother to be Japanese—so that Japan could live in my very blood. But perhaps, in some ways, it already does. Every bite of sushi, every roaring Honda engine, every moment on the mat in a jiu-jitsu roll, every nostalgic Pokémon battle—I carry Japan in my heart.

And for those fleeting moments at Momo Sushi, with the taste of ocean-fresh sashimi still lingering, I...

My son and I went out for dinner on a rare occasion to talk and enjoy a relaxed Friday nite dinner. We ordered a lot of food, he, 6 different items, and me a full dinner and an expensive bottle of wine. Within 10 minutes of enjoying our meal, the waitress brought the bill and expected us to pay as we were just digging into our meal. Then we were interrupted several times by 2 different waitresses and the owner trying to rush us. Within 20 minutes, we were told they were closing and they wanted us to leave. I asked the owner if I could stay and finish my meal and he laughed and told me what time it was, and told me they closed a half hour ago. If we would have been told when we entered that we only had a half hour, we would've chosen another restaurant. I've never been treated so poorly. Although the food was good, this was unacceptable when you're paying over $100 for dinner. We had to box our food and leave in the middle of our meal. So disappointed. This ruined our time together. Will not...

Sushi was good and fairly priced. Sashimi was nice and fresh (not icy or fishy tasting). Loved the assorted tempura, which was a large portion size with good variety. Had a shiitake roll which was tasty but coyld have used a larger slice of shiitake in it. Chicken yaki udon was our last dish and it was also very tasty. We dont normally do yakiudon or yakisoba but enjoyed it. The food came fast.

Staff was friendly and attentive. The owner (I think), made the rounds and said hi to patrons which was a nice touch.

For reference we are slight sushi snobs growing up mostly in Vancouver, but have also had good sushi in Japan, Hawaii, HK, and San Fran.

Is Momo the best in town, I can't say. We just moved here and need to try more places. If this was in Van I'd...