Walnut Creek’s Miraku closes after 34 years

Miraku, a traditional Japanese restaurant in Walnut Creek, has closed its doors after more than three decades in business.

The North Broadway restaurant, known for its sushi and sashimi and mellow, low-lit dining room, posted the announcement on the door earlier this month.

“With a heavy heart, Miraku is announcing that it will close its doors for business on Oct. 1 after 34 years of serving at this location,” the note reads. “We thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives, sharing your time and families with us. Thank you for choosing Miraku throughout the years. We all made a million memories in this restaurant.”

The note went on to say what an honor it had been for the staff to serve what had become “loyal customers, friends and extended family.”

The closure comes after a stream of other restaurants closed their doors this year, including Fuddrucker’s, Stanford’s, Corner’s Tavern, Mangosteen, Le Cheval, Evie’s Hamburgers, Mary’s Pizza Shack and Tender Greens. High rent, staffing challenges and stiff competition in the Walnut Creek market are contributing factors for the ongoing trend.

GETTY IMAGES Sushi lovers will have to find a new spot now that Miraku has closed in Walnut Creek.

SAL PIZARRO — STAFF Guests celebrate with Luna Mexican Kitchen co-owner Jo Lerma-lopez, center, at a preview party for the restaurant’s Campbell location.