I have been eating at Sakura's in Tacoma for many years and kept going back because I enjoyed the food style. However, after eating at Samurai's in Spanaway I will never go back to Sakura's. Not only is the food of much higher quality(all white chicken, less fatty steaks, and fresher seafood) the atmosphere is enchanting. The decoration is above and beyond, it doesn't feel like a restaurant with a gimmick it feels warm and exotic like you've left the country, and it sure doesn't feel like you're in Spanaway. The several times I have been there I had to wait to be seated, which usually annoys me, however with the bar surrounded by a beautiful pond and a cozy fireplace inside the time just slipped right by me. The wait staff is much more polite and pleasant the at Sukura's and the chefs look more clean and seem more relaxed and have a fantastic grasp on the mood of the table. Sometimes you want jokes from your chef and sometimes you want a show and some romance and they seem to be able to sense what it is you are there for. Sitting next to strangers is not my favorite part of the whole experience but I will say with an entertaining and courteous staff, a warm inviting atmosphere and delicious food you can find you self talking with your table neighbors like old friends. The food, my favorite part, is supreme. Every bite is delicious, the veggies are always perfect, the sauces(which are the same styles as Sukuras) are much richer, and the Chef is willing to prepare something to your liking if you are not able to eat something or don't like something that is part of the meal. I have a picky husband who always needs things made a different way than the rest of the table and the chef never seems to mind. In my opinion even if you live next door to Sakura's I would make the drive to Spanaway.

Best restaurant in Tacoma. Maybe in the whole state! Food delicious and the staff #1. Decor can't be beat.

1 word.
AWESOME!!!