Kasei Sushi and Sake

For residents across Georgia, particularly those nestled in the scenic North Georgia mountains around Ellijay, the search for truly exceptional and fresh Japanese cuisine can sometimes feel like a quest. However, a culinary gem that has consistently captivated locals and visitors alike is Kasei Sushi and Sake. This esteemed restaurant offers an authentic Japanese dining experience, distinguished by its incredibly fresh ingredients, artful presentation, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Kasei Sushi and Sake has quickly become a "must do" for many spending time in Ellijay, a testament to its consistent quality and delightful offerings. Patrons frequently rave about the freshness of the fish, with one customer expressing amazement at finding "bluefin tuna," a rarity that they hadn't encountered in America for many years. This dedication to sourcing premium ingredients, even in a landlocked region, underscores Kasei's commitment to delivering a truly authentic and high-caliber sushi experience.

Beyond the pristine quality of its fish, Kasei Sushi and Sake is celebrated for its overall dining environment and attentive service. Whether you're enjoying a meal with family or unwinding at the bar with friends, the atmosphere is designed to be pleasant and engaging. The owners, Marcelo and Candice Sandrini (who also own other local favorites like Ellijay Wood Fired Pizza), along with their dedicated team, are known for personally ensuring guests are "very well taken care of," contributing to a memorable and personalized visit.

The culinary artistry is also a significant highlight, with dishes presented beautifully, making the meal a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Combined with an impressive selection of sake and other unique Asian-inspired drinks, Kasei Sushi and Sake offers a comprehensive Japanese experience that is both delightful and consistently highly rated by those who visit. It's truly a place that makes you "wish I could go back... right now!"

Location and Accessibility

Kasei Sushi and Sake is perfectly situated at 10 River St, Ellijay, GA 30540, USA. This address places it right in the heart of downtown Ellijay, a charming and picturesque town nestled in the North Georgia mountains. The location offers excellent accessibility for locals and those visiting from across Georgia.

Ellijay, known as Georgia's "Apple Capital," is a popular destination for its outdoor activities, orchards, and quaint downtown area. River Street is a central part of this downtown charm, featuring local shops, other eateries, and a welcoming pedestrian-friendly environment.

For those traveling by car, Ellijay is easily accessible via Georgia State Route 52 and State Route 515, which connect to major highways like I-575. This makes for a straightforward drive from various parts of Georgia, including Atlanta and other major metropolitan areas. Once in downtown Ellijay, finding Kasei Sushi and Sake on River Street is typically easy, and street parking or nearby public parking lots are generally available, especially during non-peak hours.

The restaurant's setting within the scenic downtown contributes to the overall dining experience. Diners can enjoy the charm of Ellijay, perhaps combining their meal with some local shopping or a stroll. The ease of access and the appealing location make Kasei Sushi and Sake a convenient and desirable destination for anyone in Georgia looking for high-quality Japanese cuisine in a delightful setting. Its central spot means it's a natural meeting point and a great choice for those exploring the beauty of the North Georgia region.

Services Offered

Kasei Sushi and Sake provides a comprehensive range of services designed to deliver an authentic and high-quality Japanese dining experience to its patrons in Georgia:

• Dine-In Experience: The restaurant offers a comfortable and engaging dine-in atmosphere. It's known for its pleasant environment, making it suitable for various occasions, from a casual lunch to a more relaxed dinner experience. The ambiance encourages guests to linger and enjoy their meal.

• Lunch and Dinner Service: Kasei Sushi and Sake typically serves both lunch and dinner. Current hours indicate they are open Wednesday-Saturday from 11:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. for lunch and 5:00 – 9:00 p.m. for dinner, providing flexibility for diners throughout the day. They are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

• High-Quality Sushi and Sashimi: As highlighted by customers, a core offering is their exceptional sushi and sashimi. Patrons praise the "freshest" fish, including rare finds like "bluefin tuna." Their menu includes various options such as nigiri, sashimi, and a wide array of sushi rolls (makimono).

• Diverse Japanese Cuisine: Beyond sushi, Kasei Sushi and Sake offers a variety of "unique Asian-inspired" dishes and other Japanese comfort foods. While specific menu items outside of sushi are not detailed in the reviews, typical Japanese restaurants of this caliber often feature:

  • Appetizers like Edamame, Gyoza (pork dumplings), and Seaweed Salad.
  • Soups such as Miso Soup.
  • Possibly rice bowls, curry dishes, or other main entrees.
  The emphasis is on quality and authentic preparation across their offerings.

• Extensive Sake Selection: As part of its name, Kasei Sushi and Sake boasts an "extensive sake list" with "over 35 sake selections." This makes it a prime destination for sake enthusiasts or those looking to explore different varieties of this traditional Japanese beverage, perfectly complementing the sushi and other dishes.

• Unique Asian-Inspired Drinks: In addition to sake, the restaurant offers "unique Asian-inspired drinks," suggesting a creative beverage program that might include specialty cocktails or non-alcoholic options that tie into the Japanese theme.

• Attentive and Personalized Customer Service: Reviewers praise the service, noting they were "served by the owner, himself, and very well taken care of." This level of personal attention and friendliness from staff, including mentions of bartenders like Audrey, contributes significantly to a positive and welcoming dining experience.

• Vegetarian, Pescetarian, and Vegan Options: Kasei Sushi & Sake is noted for offering "several vegetarian, pescetarian, and vegan friendly options," making it an inclusive dining spot that caters to various dietary preferences.

These services collectively position Kasei Sushi and Sake as a premium and versatile Japanese dining destination in Ellijay, dedicated to providing a memorable experience for its Georgia patrons.

Features / Highlights

Kasei Sushi and Sake truly shines with several key features and highlights that make it a standout Japanese restaurant in Ellijay, Georgia:

• Incredibly Fresh and High-Quality Fish: This is unequivocally the most praised highlight. Customers repeatedly emphasize the "freshest" fish they've encountered in years. The ability to source and serve rarities like "bluefin tuna," which one reviewer hadn't had in America for many years, speaks volumes about Kasei's commitment to premium ingredients. This focus on top-tier, fresh seafood is a major draw for sushi aficionados.

• Expert Sushi Preparation: Reviewers consistently state that the "sushi was really good!" and that the "food is awesome." This indicates skilled sushi chefs who not only select high-quality ingredients but also prepare them expertly, ensuring delicious and well-crafted rolls and nigiri.

• Exceptional Sake Selection: True to its name, Kasei boasts an "extensive sake list" with "over 35 sake selections." This wide variety makes it a destination for those looking to explore the nuanced world of sake, offering perfect pairings for their Japanese dishes and enhancing the overall authentic experience.

• Personalized and Attentive Service (Owner Involvement): Customers frequently mention being "served by the owner, himself," and being "very well taken care of." This hands-on approach from the ownership, coupled with friendly staff like Audrey at the bar, creates a warm, welcoming, and personalized dining atmosphere that makes guests feel valued.

• Beautiful Presentation: The food is praised for its "beautiful presentation!" This attention to detail elevates the dining experience, making each dish not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes, reflecting the artistry inherent in Japanese cuisine.

• Unique & Signature Items (e.g., "Biggest Shrimp EVER!!!"): Specific items like "Biggest Shrimp EVER!!!" capture customer imagination and suggest unique, memorable dishes beyond standard offerings. The mention of getting a "Lucky Cat" and enjoying "Gilligan's Island reruns on the TV" at the bar points to a fun, relaxed, and perhaps quirky atmosphere that makes the experience even more distinctive.

• Inclusivity with Dietary Options: Kasei Sushi & Sake is noted for offering "several vegetarian, pescetarian, and vegan friendly options." This thoughtfulness caters to a wider range of dietary needs and preferences, making it a suitable choice for diverse groups of diners.

• Consistent "Must-Do" Local Favorite: For many, especially those who frequent Ellijay, Kasei has become a cherished "must do" on every visit. This strong loyalty speaks volumes about the consistent quality and positive experiences it provides, solidifying its status as a local highlight.

These features collectively position Kasei Sushi and Sake as a premier Japanese dining establishment, offering a unique blend of culinary excellence, engaging atmosphere, and exceptional service for residents of Georgia.

Promotions or Special Offers

Based on the provided customer reviews and publicly available information, explicit, regularly advertised "promotions or special offers" for Kasei Sushi and Sake are not detailed. However, the restaurant's reputation and appeal stem more from its consistent high quality, unique offerings, and personalized service rather than recurring discounts.

It is common for restaurants of Kasei's caliber, particularly those focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients and a specialized experience (like an extensive sake list), to prioritize the value derived from the exceptional dining experience itself rather than frequent price-based promotions.

That being said, a few potential aspects that could be considered "offers" in a broader sense, or common practices for such establishments, include:

• Restaurant.com Certificates: While not a direct promotion from the restaurant, Kasei Sushi & Sake has been listed on platforms like Restaurant.com, which offers discounted dining certificates (e.g., "$25 for $10" or similar deals) for various restaurants. This could be a way for new customers in Georgia to try the restaurant at a reduced cost.

• Seasonal or Special Menu Items: Restaurants focusing on fresh fish often introduce seasonal specials based on ingredient availability. While not a discount, these limited-time offerings provide novelty and a unique culinary experience that can attract repeat visits.

• Lunch Specials: Many Japanese restaurants, even upscale ones, offer specific lunch menus or bento box deals that provide good value for midday diners. While not explicitly mentioned in reviews, this is a common practice.

• Sake Pairing Dinners: Given their "extensive sake list," Kasei might host special tasting events or dinners featuring specific sake pairings with a multi-course menu. These are often ticketed events that offer a unique, curated experience.

• Loyalty or VIP Programs: For a restaurant with a strong local following and repeat customers ("must do every weekend"), a loyalty program or email list offering exclusive perks for frequent diners is a possibility, though not confirmed.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on any current promotions, happy hour specials (if applicable), or unique events, residents in Georgia interested in Kasei Sushi and Sake should:

• Contact the restaurant directly via phone at (706) 851-2200.

• Check their official website or social media channels (if available), as these are often used for announcing timely specials or events.

While direct promotional deals might not be their primary marketing strategy, the consistent high quality and memorable dining experience at Kasei Sushi and Sake act as their most powerful "offer" to the local community.

Contact Information

For residents in Georgia eager to experience the exceptional Japanese cuisine and sake selection at Kasei Sushi and Sake in Ellijay, here is their essential contact information:

• Address: 10 River St, Ellijay, GA 30540, USA

• Phone: (706) 851-2200

This information is crucial for planning your visit, making inquiries about their menu, checking current operating hours, or asking any questions you may have, particularly regarding their impressive sake list or fresh fish availability. Given its popularity and potential for busy periods, especially on weekends or during Ellijay's peak tourist seasons, calling ahead for reservations or to confirm availability might be advisable to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Their central location on River Street makes it easy to find within downtown Ellijay.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For residents across Georgia, particularly those in the charming North Georgia town of Ellijay and its surrounding areas, Kasei Sushi and Sake is an exceptionally suitable and highly cherished dining destination. It perfectly embodies what locals seek in a quality Japanese restaurant: impeccable freshness, authentic flavors, and a truly welcoming atmosphere.

The most compelling reason for its suitability is the unwavering commitment to incredibly fresh and high-quality fish. In a landlocked state, the ability to consistently provide sushi of such a high caliber, including rare finds like "bluefin tuna," is a remarkable feat. This dedication ensures that sushi connoisseurs in Georgia no longer need to travel to coastal cities to experience top-tier sashimi and nigiri, bringing an authentic taste of the ocean right to their doorstep. The praise for the "freshest" fish highlights that Kasei truly delivers on its promise of excellence.

Furthermore, the personalized and attentive service, often including direct interaction with the owner, creates a genuinely warm and inviting atmosphere. Being "very well taken care of" makes diners feel valued and appreciated, fostering a sense of community and encouraging repeat visits. This level of customer care, combined with a "fun atmosphere" and details like "Gilligan's Island reruns on the TV" at the bar, adds a unique and enjoyable dimension to the dining experience.

The extensive sake list is another significant draw, positioning Kasei as a destination for those looking to explore authentic Japanese beverages. For locals, this means the opportunity to pair their fresh sushi with a perfectly chosen sake, enhancing the overall culinary journey and adding an educational element for those new to sake.

The beautiful presentation of dishes underscores the artistry and care taken in the kitchen, turning each meal into a visual delight. This attention to detail elevates the dining experience beyond just taste, appealing to those who appreciate a holistic culinary approach. Additionally, the availability of "vegetarian, pescetarian, and vegan friendly options" makes Kasei an inclusive choice, accommodating diverse dietary needs within the local community.

Finally, its prime location on River Street in downtown Ellijay makes it easily accessible and a natural fit for integrating into local activities. Whether it's a stop after exploring the town or a planned dinner, its central position adds to its convenience and appeal.

In conclusion, Kasei Sushi and Sake is more than just a Japanese restaurant; it's a culinary haven that offers a premium and authentic experience right in Ellijay. Its dedication to fresh ingredients, exceptional service, diverse offerings, and inviting atmosphere makes it an indispensable and cherished destination for locals throughout Georgia seeking an unparalleled Japanese dining adventure.

Kasei Sushi and Sake

10 River St, Ellijay, GA 30540, USA