Umi: Where Japanese Tradition Meets Modern Luxury

Keeping up with Atlanta’s ever evolving restaurant scene can be challenging, but we want our readers to enjoy the city’s most luxurious experiences. So read on and prepare your taste buds as we explore an elegant sushi spot.

In Atlanta’s buzzing Buckhead neighborhood, Umi is where classic and sophisticated Japanese flavors meet meticulous techniques. Co-Executive Chefs Tasuku Murakami and Todd Dae Kulper have kept the nationally acclaimed gem thriving. With Murakami leading the sushi program and Co-Executive Chef Todd Dae Kulper’s leadership in the kitchen, Umi has built a luxe reputation for itself. In the 11 years since its opening, locals, visitors and celebrities alike have delighted in the high-quality cuisine. Dedicated to using the freshest fish and proteins sourced daily from around the world, their sushi selection features sashimi, traditional nigiri, sousaku nigiri (chef’s signature creations), box sushi and specialty traditional & house rolls.

Starters

Diners can prime their palettes with guest favorite starters like Tuna Truffle Chips, Yellowtail Jalapeno, or Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice. Other popular starters include the housemade Sake Cheese and the raved Avocado Salad served with wasabi vinaigrette.

Dinner

For those interested in a hot dish that blends sweet and savory, Kulper serves up Lobster Toban-Yaki with lobster beurre noisette and Smoked Duck Breast Tataki with shigo pear and aged balsamic vinegar. For the diner with a taste for unexpected pairings, the Surf & Turf Roll includes shrimp tempura with mayo, sliced and torched A5 wagyu beef, soy sauce, chimichurri sauce, and tempura crunchy flakes. 

Dessert

There’s even more to discover on the dessert menu featuring a Chocolate Kyu or Angel Food Cake topped with vanilla ice cream and yuzu sauce. I can think of no better way to end the meal than with their prized dessert, a Valrhona chocolate sphere filled with fresh berries, red bean pastry cream & mascarpone cream infused with Tamazaki 18-year whiskey sauce. These decadent flavors are elevated by the dim glow of the moody dining room—designed by the late Atlanta artist and designer, Todd Murphy.

Evoking an earthy atmosphere, Murphy’s design reflects the pure and clean essence of Asian cuisine. The contrasting woods that frame the space paired with sleek minimalistic seating, create a dark ambiance that strikes the balance between elegance and simplicity. Thus, it may come as a surprise that just one floor above, a bright, serene space is hidden—M.

M & Himitsu

M is a more intimate space, decorated with white yakisugi walls—an ancient Japanese technique consisting of charring cedar boards— that offer a stark contrast to Umi. Opened in 2023 by Tasuku Murakami, M presents a unique omakase experience that involves an ever-changing selection of dishes based on the chef’s inspiration for the week. Chef Murakami serves unexpected flavors, like Wagyu with harissa or luxurious combinations like scallops topped with caviar. These tasty offerings can be paired with premium sake or craft cocktails from Himitsu—a Japanese cocktail lounge located next door to Umi.

Umi captivates your senses with its authentic Japanese flavors and thoughtfully designed interior. Enjoy a memorable experience at Umi and complement the night out with your choice of cocktails, spirits, sake, and wine at Himitsu.

Interested in visiting this elegant sushi spot? Make a reservation for your next night out in Buckhead below!

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