Koryouri Urara

For Washington, DC locals with a discerning palate and a passion for authentic culinary experiences, a new and exciting destination has emerged in the heart of Georgetown: Koryouri Urara. This isn't just another Japanese restaurant; it's an intimate establishment dedicated to presenting exquisite contemporary Japanese cuisine, meticulously crafted by the highly skilled and dedicated Chef Urara. It's a place designed for "anyone who appreciates exquisite food," promising a dining journey that transcends the ordinary.

What truly sets Koryouri Urara apart, as attested by enthusiastic local "foodies," is its unwavering commitment to authenticity and quality. With "more than 80% of ingredients sourced directly from Japan," patrons are guaranteed pure, fresh, and truly traditional flavors that are rarely found outside of Japan itself. Chef Urara's expertise is evident in every dish, showcasing a remarkable "balance of enveloping warm hospitality and expertise in each component." This dedication to both culinary excellence and exceptional service makes Koryouri Urara a much-needed and highly anticipated addition to Georgetown's vibrant dining scene. This article will explore what makes this restaurant a must-visit for DC residents, from its prime location and accessibility to its unique offerings and the unparalleled experience it provides.

Koryouri Urara is precisely located at 1608 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA. This address places it squarely in the historic and charming neighborhood of Georgetown, one of Washington, DC's most iconic and sought-after districts. Wisconsin Avenue NW is a central artery through Georgetown, renowned for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and diverse culinary establishments. This prime location ensures high visibility and easy access for both local residents and visitors to the area.

Accessibility to Koryouri Urara is generally convenient, reflecting its Georgetown setting. For those utilizing public transportation, while Georgetown itself does not have a Metro rail station directly within the neighborhood, it is well-served by numerous Metrobus lines, including the 31, 33, 96, and D6. These routes provide direct connections to Metro stations like Foggy Bottom-GWU (Orange, Blue, Silver Lines) and Dupont Circle (Red Line), from which a short bus ride or pleasant walk can bring you to the restaurant. Additionally, the Georgetown University Transportation Shuttle (GUTS) operates a Wisconsin Avenue Shuttle, which connects the campus with various points along the avenue. For those driving, parking in Georgetown can be challenging, but there are numerous parking lots and garages available within walking distance of Koryouri Urara, as highlighted by Georgetown's official website. These include options along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue itself, though it's always advisable to plan ahead or use parking reservation apps like SpotHero. The restaurant's strategic location within Georgetown's bustling commercial corridor ensures that it is a convenient and desirable destination for diners throughout the District of Columbia.

Services Offered

• Dine-in: Koryouri Urara offers an intimate and refined dining experience.
• Multi-Course Omakase/Tasting Menu: The primary offering is a refined multi-course omakase, priced at $138, which is not limited to sushi but includes various proteins, seasonal vegetables, and a broad amount of dishes and styles of preparation.
• Chef's Counter Seating: Features 13 counter seats where guests can experience the chef's artistry up close.
• Table Seating: In addition to counter seating, there are a few tables available for a different dining perspective.
• Reservations Required: Reservations are essential and can be booked exclusively through platforms like Resy, with availability opening one month in advance.
• Two Seating Times (Dinner): The restaurant typically offers two dinner seating times: 5 PM and 8 PM, Tuesday through Saturday.
• Optional Wine Pairings: Available to complement the multi-course tasting menu.
• Coming Soon - Upstairs Sushi Counter and Patio: Anticipated expansion to include an à la carte sushi counter and patio for walk-ins, offering more flexible dining options.
• Private Rooms: Private rooms are available on the second floor, which can accommodate children (though no children's dishes are offered).

Features / Highlights

• Exquisite Contemporary Japanese Cuisine: Focuses on refined multi-course meals with an elevated twist on Japanese comfort food.
• High-Quality, Authentic Ingredients: Over "80% of ingredients sourced directly from Japan," ensuring pure, fresh, and authentic flavors.
• Chef Urara's Incredible Skill and Dedication: Led by Chef Urara Iwasaki, praised for her expertise, balance of hospitality, and ability to expertly showcase the nuance of each ingredient.
• Intimate Dining Experience: Described as "intimate" and "cozy," with a minimalist, black-and-white space designed to keep the focus on the food.
• Exceptional Hospitality and Professional Service: Staff are "very friendly and extremely accommodating," and the service is "second to none."
• Diverse Culinary Approach: Offers a "wonderfully broad amount of dishes and styles of preparation," including seafood, meats, and seasonal ingredients.
• All Cylinders Firing: Every item is cooked or served to perfection, with a consistent high quality across the entire tasting menu.
• New and Much-Needed Addition to Georgetown: Recognized as a valuable new establishment filling a niche in the local dining scene.
• Focus on Seasonal Ingredients: Emphasizes incorporating the best seasonal ingredients into its courses.

Koryouri Urara, with its focus on an exquisite multi-course omakase experience, primarily offers value through the unparalleled quality of its ingredients and the culinary artistry of Chef Urara. While traditional "promotions" like discounted happy hours or loyalty programs are not typically aligned with this high-end dining model, the restaurant itself presents a unique value proposition for discerning diners in Washington, DC.

The core "special offer" of Koryouri Urara is its comprehensive tasting menu, priced at $138 in the dining room and at the Chef's Counter. This price point, considering the use of over "80% of ingredients sourced directly from Japan" and the expertise of Chef Urara, represents a significant investment in a high-quality, authentic Japanese culinary journey. For food enthusiasts in DC, this is an opportunity to experience genuine Japanese flavors and techniques that are truly special. The optional wine pairings also enhance the experience, allowing for a complete sensory delight.

As the restaurant anticipates getting busier, securing a reservation can be seen as its own form of "promotion." Reservations are available exclusively through Resy and open one month in advance, a common practice for highly sought-after dining experiences. For locals eager to try Koryouri Urara, being proactive in booking is essential.

Looking ahead, the planned "upstairs sushi counter and patio offering an à la carte menu, available for walk-ins" suggests a future expansion of dining options that might introduce more flexible pricing or a less structured experience, potentially catering to those looking for a quicker or more casual visit without the full omakase commitment. Locals interested in such options should keep an eye on Koryouri Urara's announcements.

To stay informed about any future developments or specific offerings, DC residents should regularly check Koryouri Urara’s Resy page for reservation availability, and potentially any social media channels or local food blogs that might feature updates on their evolving services. The restaurant's dedication to providing a top-tier Japanese dining experience is its primary draw, and the value lies in that exceptional quality and authenticity.

Contact Information

Address: 1608 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA

Reservation Platform: Resy (online booking is essential)

Koryouri Urara is an exceptionally suitable and highly anticipated addition for locals in the District of Columbia, especially those who cherish fine dining and authentic international cuisine. Its prime location in Georgetown on Wisconsin Avenue NW ensures that it is readily accessible for residents throughout the city, offering a refined culinary escape in a charming, historic neighborhood. While parking might require a bit of planning in Georgetown, the multitude of nearby garages and public transportation options make visiting feasible and convenient.

The core appeal of Koryouri Urara for DC locals lies in its unwavering commitment to authenticity and quality. The fact that "more than 80% of ingredients sourced directly from Japan" speaks volumes about its dedication to providing a true taste of Japanese culinary excellence. For Washingtonians who are passionate about food and seek genuine flavors, this emphasis on premium, imported ingredients is a significant draw. Chef Urara's "incredible skill and dedication" transform these ingredients into an exquisite multi-course omakase experience, showcasing a "wonderfully broad amount of dishes and styles of preparation" that satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Moreover, the intimate and cozy atmosphere, combined with the "friendly and extremely accommodating" staff and "professional service," creates a dining environment that is both luxurious and welcoming. This balance of world-class cuisine and warm hospitality makes Koryouri Urara a place where locals can truly relax and immerse themselves in the culinary journey. It's not just a meal; it's an experience that fosters a deeper appreciation for Japanese culinary art. As one reviewer aptly put it, it's a "much needed addition to Georgetown" and is "for anyone who appreciates exquisite food." For residents of the District seeking an unparalleled and authentic Japanese fine dining experience, Koryouri Urara promises to be a cherished destination that will leave a lasting impression.

Koryouri Urara

1608 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA