Banya is hidden in a strip mall behind a 7-11 on Hall Blvd so most people have never heard of it, much less given it a try.
Banya has some of the most authentic Japanese food in Oregon and I am pretty picky about my Japanese food. My parents (both came to the US from Japan when they were 19) love this place and enjoyed the food immensely.
They have a few tatami rooms available, but the other tables are western style. The decor is not over-the-top Japanese, but the sumo ratings and the vertically-hung paper sushi signs definitely lend to the authenticity of the place. It's not fancy, but don't let that stop you from giving this place a try.
They start you off with a hot towel to refresh yourself with (Be careful! The towels are REALLY hot) and their menu has a nice selection incuding some combination plates that are huge. The tempura is always crispy and fresh and the sushi never disappoints us.
This place is not as inexpensive as my other Japanese restaurant choice (Sambi) but it is better quality and worth the money. If you want authentic Japanese food that is top quality and you don't mind having to go off the beaten path, give Banya a try.
Keywords: Japanese / Sushi, Restaurant, Everyone, Dinner, Moderate (US$ 11 - US$ 20)