Uchi Austin

For residents of Austin, Texas, who seek a truly elevated and inventive Japanese dining experience, Uchi Austin stands as a culinary beacon. Founded by James Beard Award-winning Chef Tyson Cole, Uchi is not just a restaurant; it’s an institution that has consistently redefined expectations for non-traditional Japanese cuisine since its inception. Located in a beautifully refurbished bungalow in South Austin, Uchi offers a delicate balance of bold flavors, artful presentation, and impeccable service, making every visit a memorable occasion. It’s a place where tradition meets innovation, captivating the palates of both long-time devotees and first-time guests, and remains a top choice for special celebrations in the Austin dining scene.

Uchi, meaning "home" in Japanese, embraces a philosophy of continuous study and experimentation, evident in every dish served. Chef Cole's unique approach to Japanese food moves beyond conventional sushi, incorporating unexpected pairings and techniques that surprise and delight. This culinary philosophy extends to a diverse menu that includes hot and cool tastings, a variety of nigiri and sashimi, and a thoughtfully curated selection of other Japanese-inspired dishes. What truly sets Uchi apart is its dedication to accommodating all diners, including those with specific dietary preferences, notably offering a remarkable array of vegetarian and even vegan options that are as creative and flavorful as their traditional counterparts. This commitment to inclusivity, combined with its consistently high standards of food and service, solidifies Uchi Austin's reputation as a cornerstone of Austin's fine dining landscape.

Uchi Austin is conveniently situated at 801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704, USA. This address places it in the vibrant South Lamar area, a popular district known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. The location is easily accessible from various parts of Austin, making it a desirable destination for both locals and visitors.

The restaurant's setting in a refurbished bungalow adds to its unique charm, providing a distinct atmosphere compared to many modern establishments. For accessibility, Uchi offers valet parking, which is a significant convenience in a bustling area like South Lamar. This alleviates the common concern of finding parking in popular Austin neighborhoods. Additionally, its proximity to major roads and public transport routes ensures that guests can reach Uchi with relative ease, whether they are driving, using rideshare services, or opting for other modes of transportation. The design also includes wheelchair accessibility, ensuring a welcoming environment for all patrons.

• Dine-In Service: Offers an elegant and relaxed atmosphere for both intimate dinners and larger gatherings.
• À La Carte Menu: An extensive menu featuring non-traditional sushi, sashimi, hot and cool tastings, makimono rolls, skewers, and entrees.
• Vegetarian & Vegan Options: A dedicated and highly praised selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including a vegetarian tasting menu.
• Omakase: Chef's tasting menu, often seasonal, providing a curated culinary journey.
• Happy Hour (Sake Social): Available daily, featuring a selection of discounted food items and drinks.
• Full Bar: Offers a wide array of sake, wine, beer, and meticulously crafted cocktails.
• Reservations: Highly encouraged and can be made up to one month in advance due to high demand. Limited walk-in seating is available at the sushi bar.
• Takeout: Offers an option to enjoy Uchi's cuisine from home.
• Catering & Events: Through their Uchi Catering service, menu items can be enjoyed at private events, from intimate gatherings to large celebrations, with options for full-service or pick-up/drop-off.
• Uchi at Home Chef Experience: A premium service where Uchi's culinary team brings a personalized dining experience directly to your home.
• Outdoor Seating: Patio dining is available, weather permitting.
• Gift Cards: Available for purchase, making for a perfect gift for food lovers.

• Pioneering Vegetarian Menu: Uchi stands out for its exceptional and creative vegetarian and vegan options, including a vegetarian tasting menu described as "SO incredibly good" and "undoubtedly takes the cake" compared to other tasting menus. Dishes like the Yasai Cure (vegetarian version of the Machi Cure), Hana Nigiri (cauliflower), Biendo (spring roll take), and Broccoli Katsu are consistently praised as "fantastic" and "blown away" caliber.
• Innovative & Non-Traditional Japanese Cuisine: Known for its unique spin on Japanese food, Chef Tyson Cole's approach results in dishes that are works of art, both visually and in flavor, with a perfect balance of texture, temperature, and taste. Every bite is a "surprise."
• Exceptional Service: Consistently rated as "phenomenal" and "excellent," with attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate staff who provide outstanding recommendations and enhance the overall dining experience.
• Award-Winning Pedigree: Founded by James Beard Award-winning Chef Tyson Cole, Uchi has received numerous accolades, including being named among the top sushi spots by Bon Appetit.
• Freshness and Creativity: The sushi is lauded for being "the freshest, most creative, and most delicious" available. The chef's creativity is "truly unmatched."
• Elegant yet Relaxed Ambiance: The restaurant offers an "elegant yet relaxed" atmosphere, making it ideal for both special occasions and intimate dinners.
• Wonderful Sake Selection: Guests often enjoy their meals with Uchi's "wonderful sake," indicating a well-curated beverage program.
• Memorable Dishes: Beyond the vegetarian options, specific dishes like the Korokke (described as "so fun!" with an "unexpected" sauce) and the use of Asian pears in salads are noted for their unique and delicious qualities.
• Special Occasion Destination: Widely considered a "must-visit for special occasions and celebrations," making it a new favorite for many locals.

Uchi Austin offers a popular daily promotion known as their Happy Hour, also referred to as "Sake Social." This is an excellent opportunity for locals to experience Uchi's acclaimed cuisine and unique ambiance at a more accessible price point.

The Happy Hour at Uchi Austin runs daily from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. During this time, guests can enjoy a curated selection of discounted food and drink items. While the specific offerings can rotate, typical happy hour menus at Uchi and its sister restaurants include:

• Discounted Nigiri and Sashimi: Often featuring high-quality pieces like Hotate Gunkan (scallop) and various crudos (e.g., Kanpachi, Bincho Albacore).
• Small Plates and Appetizers: Popular items such as Lamb Tataki, Crispy Rice Cakes, and Oysters are frequently part of the happy hour menu.
• Beverage Specials: This typically includes deals on selected sake (like nigori sake), beers, and cocktails, making it a great time to sample their drink program.

Customers specifically highlight the Uchi happy hour as "where it's at," noting that they've "left full MANY times." It's often seen as a cost-effective way to enjoy a substantial meal from their innovative menu. While Uchi is generally considered a higher-priced restaurant, the happy hour provides significant value, making it a fantastic option for locals looking for a premium dining experience without the full cost. It is recommended to arrive early for happy hour, as seating can be limited, especially at the sushi bar. For the most current happy hour menu and pricing, visiting Uchi's official website or contacting the restaurant directly is advised.

To make a reservation or inquire further about the exquisite dining experience at Uchi Austin, please use the following contact details:

Address: 801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704, USA
Phone: (512) 916-4808
Mobile Phone: +1 512-916-4808

For the discerning residents of Austin, Texas, Uchi Austin remains a premier and highly suitable dining destination, consistently delivering an experience that goes beyond mere sustenance to become a true culinary event. Its enduring appeal lies in its unwavering commitment to innovative cuisine, exceptional service, and, remarkably, its ability to cater to evolving dietary preferences, particularly for vegetarians and vegans.

Uchi's "non-traditional Japanese" approach is a perfect fit for Austin's adventurous culinary spirit. Locals appreciate a restaurant that pushes boundaries while maintaining a foundation of quality. The enthusiastic reviews for their vegetarian options, such as the "fantastic" Yasai Cure and "yummy" Yaki Soba, demonstrate that Uchi has successfully expanded its appeal without compromising its high standards. The "vegetarian tasting menu" is singled out as "incredibly good," highlighting Uchi's thoughtful and creative approach to plant-based dishes, making it an inclusive fine dining choice.

Beyond the food, the "excellent service" and "phenomenal" staff, such as Emma, contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment, ensuring that every visit feels like a special occasion. This dedication to hospitality cultivates a loyal local following, as Austinites value attentive and knowledgeable service. The restaurant’s elegant yet relaxed ambiance makes it versatile enough for intimate dinners or celebratory gatherings, cementing its status as a "must-visit for special occasions."

Furthermore, the daily happy hour (Sake Social) provides a fantastic entry point for locals to experience Uchi's renowned quality at a more approachable price point. This allows regular patrons to enjoy their favorite dishes or try new ones without the commitment of a full dinner, reinforcing its suitability for both casual treats and grand celebrations. With its blend of award-winning culinary artistry, inclusive menu, and impeccable service, Uchi Austin continues to be a cherished "new favorite restaurant" and a beacon of exceptional dining for the Austin community.

Uchi Austin

801 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704, USA