Roll House Dragon: A Family-Run Sushi Spot with Fresh Flavors
Discover the inspiring story behind Roll House Dragon, a family-run sushi restaurant known for its fresh flavors, creative rolls, and warm community atmosphere. Learn how passion and dedication turned this eatery into a local favorite.
When Roll House Dragon opened its doors in September 2020, it was more than just a sushi restaurant—it was a dream brought to life by a family determined to make their mark. Spearheaded by Chloe and her parents, this cozy eatery started as a passion project and blossomed into a beloved neighborhood spot, known for its creative sushi rolls, warm service, and the undeniable charm of a family-run business.
For Chloe, the journey began as a senior in college, stepping up to help her parents navigate the challenges of opening a restaurant in a new country. “My dad always wanted to open a restaurant,” she shared. “But as immigrants who didn’t speak English or know American culture, it was hard for them to figure out where to start. That’s where I came in.”
Chloe’s parents poured their hearts into learning the craft of sushi-making, with her mother working in a sushi restaurant and attending culinary classes to perfect her skills. They leaned on the guidance of a mentor who shared insider knowledge about running a restaurant, and with Chloe managing the logistics, legalities, and online presence, the family worked as a team to turn their vision into reality.
From Humble Beginnings to a Growing Legacy
Opening in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic was no small feat. “When we started, it was just the four of us—me, my parents, and my little sister, who was only seven at the time,” Chloe said. “Even she helped, cleaning tables and talking to customers.” With no formal promotion and a small seating capacity of just five tables, the family focused on building connections with their customers.
“We treat everyone like family,” Chloe said. “My mom is incredibly sweet, and customers adore her. Her kindness and care are what make people keep coming back.”
The Menu That Keeps Customers Coming Back
Roll House Dragon is best known for its inventive sushi rolls, each crafted with the freshest ingredients. Signature items like the Volcano Roll, the Fire Fight Roll, and the Spicy Red Dragon Roll are crowd favorites. Chloe herself created a special menu item, the Chloe Roll, featuring tempura, avocado, and a sweet ginger dressing. “It’s a perfect balance of flavors,” she explained.
The restaurant also caters to non-sushi eaters with approachable options like the Shrimp Tempura Roll, a hit with local students. “Tempura is affordable, and everyone loves it,” Chloe noted. “Even people who aren’t big on sushi enjoy it because it’s cooked and has a sweet sauce that’s really appealing.”
The Secret to Their Success
According to Chloe, Roll House Dragon thrives because of two things: fresh ingredients and genuine customer relationships. “We prioritize freshness above all else,” she said. “We never reuse fish or compromise on quality. And we see every customer as a friend, not just a transaction. That personal touch makes all the difference.”
Looking to the Future
While the restaurant is now stable and successful, the family isn’t resting on their laurels. “We’re always looking for opportunities to grow,” Chloe said. “Whether it’s expanding to new locations or collaborating with others, we see a lot of potential in what we’ve built here. We’re just waiting for the right opportunity.”