Ninja Japanese Cuisine in Richmond recently celebrated an expansion that saw the restaurant double its seating capacity and add a private room for parties.

The restaurant is owned by Hong Zhou, who said he has worked in restaurants since he was 18.

“I have experienced every position in the restaurant business—from the front door to the kitchen,” Zhou said.

His first job was working for a chef in the kitchen of a restaurant, and the experience helped him to hone his cooking skills before becoming a chef himself.

“After observing and learning from others, I became a chef,” he said.

After gaining experience in the various facets of running a restaurant, Zhou decided to open his own business. In 2011, Ninja Japanese Cuisine opened its doors.

The restaurant has a full bar, and is decorated with an Asian-infused design. There is a long bar behind which the sushi chefs can be seen rolling their creations.

“I enjoy the opportunity to share a new cuisine and new recipes with the community,” Zhou said.

Since opening Zhou has tweaked with the menu, adding some new dishes and special sushi rolls. For those new to sushi, Zhou recommended trying the crunchy roll or the 359 roll. However, Zhou said the menu also has many options for the sushi expert.

The restaurant also serves sashimi, which consists of high-quality raw fish. The sashimi is sliced and served with ginger and wasabi. It is different from sushi, Zhou said, because sushi is rolled, and can include cooked food as well as raw fish.

“Japanese food is very healthy and low in fat,” he said.

Zhou said he is proud of his restaurant.

“We are proud to serve the families of the community,” Zhou said. “Many of our guests dine as a family, including the children and the parents.”

Ninja Japanese Cuisine 1800 FM 359 Road, Ste. 180, Richmond 281-239-2299 www.ninjasushi.net Hours : Tue.-Sun. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; closed Mondays