Umi

For those in Georgia seeking an unparalleled Japanese dining experience, particularly one that transcends the ordinary, Umi in Atlanta's prestigious Buckhead neighborhood stands as a beacon of culinary excellence. Since opening its doors in May 2013, Umi has quickly garnered a reputation as one of the nation's premier sushi and Japanese restaurants, attracting not only locals but also visitors and even celebrities. It's a destination where classic and modern Japanese flavors converge in a sophisticated and artfully designed setting, promising a truly memorable meal.

Umi's philosophy centers on delivering an experience for the senses. Helmed by acclaimed Co-Executive Chefs Tasuku Murakami and Todd Dae Kulper, the restaurant prides itself on sourcing the freshest fish from the world's finest markets and utilizing the highest quality ingredients available. This commitment to quality extends beyond the plate to the ambiance itself, designed by the late Atlanta artist and designer Todd Murphy, featuring an elegant yet simple interior with organic, earthy elements that reflect the pure and clean qualities of Asian fare. From the precise cuts of sashimi to the perfectly cooked Wagyu steak, Umi aims for every dish to be a testament to meticulous preparation and exceptional flavor. While certainly a higher-end dining option, many patrons consistently affirm that the experience, from the ambiance and service to the exquisite food, is "totally worth every penny," making it a go-to for special occasions or when a truly outstanding Japanese meal is desired in Georgia.

Umi is elegantly situated at Two Buckhead Plaza, 3050 Peachtree Rd Suite #1, Atlanta, GA 30305, USA. This prime address places it squarely within the vibrant and upscale Buckhead neighborhood, renowned as one of Atlanta's most prestigious districts. Its location on Peachtree Road, a major artery, ensures excellent accessibility for residents throughout the city and surrounding areas of Georgia.

Being part of the Two Buckhead Plaza, Umi benefits from the amenities of a high-end commercial and residential complex. Parking is often facilitated through valet services, shared with other upscale establishments in the plaza, making arrival and departure smooth and convenient for diners. For those traveling from various parts of Atlanta or even outside the city, Umi's prominent location and association with a well-known plaza simplify navigation. This strategic placement in the heart of Buckhead contributes significantly to its appeal as a top-tier dining destination, allowing guests to easily access an exceptional Japanese culinary experience. The sophisticated surroundings of Buckhead further enhance the overall ambiance of a visit to Umi.

Umi provides a range of elevated services designed to ensure a seamless and luxurious Japanese dining experience for its patrons in Atlanta, Georgia.

• Dine-In Service: Umi offers a sophisticated and elegant setting for an immersive dining experience. The main dining room, artfully designed with Japanese craftsmanship and contemporary sensibilities, provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying their exquisite menu.
• Omakase Experience: A significant highlight, Umi offers an intimate eight-seat omakase experience called "M by Tasuku Murakami" located one floor above the main dining room. This 18-course, interactive tasting experience is led by Co-Executive Chef Tasuku Murakami, featuring fish flown in weekly from the Tokyo Fish Market and other diligently sourced ingredients, tailored to individual preferences.
• Reservations: Given its popularity and upscale nature, Umi strongly recommends and accepts reservations. These can be made by calling the restaurant directly or through their online reservation button, ensuring guests secure their preferred dining time.
• Take-Away Service: For those who wish to enjoy Umi's renowned cuisine in the comfort of their own space, a concise version of their menu is available for take-away. This allows for convenient pickup of their high-quality dishes.
• Private Events: Umi offers stunning spaces for private events. "The Murphy Room," a private dining room, can accommodate up to 25 seated guests, while the entire main dining room can be booked for larger gatherings. They also offer a private omakase counter for up to eight guests.
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• Extensive Beverage Program: Umi boasts an expansive selection of exclusive craft sake, classic and signature cocktails, premium wine and champagne curated by their Level III Advanced Sommelier, Joon Lim, along with fine spirits and a selection of beer and pressed artisan roasted Lamill coffee.
• Cashless Establishment: For convenience and efficiency, Umi operates as a cashless establishment, accepting credit cards only.

Umi is celebrated for numerous distinctive features and highlights that establish it as a premier Japanese dining destination in Atlanta, Georgia.

• Exceptional Food Quality and Freshness: At the heart of Umi's reputation is its commitment to the highest quality ingredients. They meticulously source the freshest fish and proteins daily from around the globe, including items flown directly from Tokyo's Toyosu Fish Market. This dedication results in "fresh and tender fish with a lot of flavor" and "juicy" Wagyu steak that "melted right into your mouth."
• Acclaimed Chef Team: Umi's culinary prowess is led by Co-Executive Chefs Tasuku Murakami and Todd Dae Kulper. Chef Murakami, with a background in Michelin-starred restaurants, oversees the sushi program, while Chef Kulper leads the kitchen, crafting exquisite hot dishes. Their combined expertise ensures a diverse and high-caliber menu.
• Signature Omakase Experience: The "M by Tasuku Murakami" omakase room provides an intimate, 18-course tasting journey that showcases Chef Murakami's talent and the day's freshest ingredients. This highly personalized and interactive experience is a major draw for discerning diners.
• Diverse and Innovative Menu: Beyond traditional sushi and sashimi, Umi offers "sousaku nigiri" (chef's signature creations), "box sushi," and specialty house rolls that are both classic and innovative (e.g., Lobster Tempura Roll, New Age Roll, Surf & Turf Roll, and the unique Foie Gras Roll). Hot dishes like baked lobster tempura, sautéed foie gras, and black cod miso also receive high praise.
• Stunning Ambiance and Design: The restaurant's interior, designed by Todd Murphy, is a harmonious blend of Japanese craftsmanship and contemporary design. With dark and moody tones, charred "yaki sugi" walls (a 200-year-old wood burning technique), and handcrafted plateware and crystal glassware, the ambiance is "elegant, yet simple with organic, earthy elements," creating an "amazing" and "classy" dining environment.
• Exemplary Service: Customers consistently laud the attentive and knowledgeable staff. Reviews highlight servers who are "absolutely amazing," make "great recommendations," and ensure food and drinks arrive "in a timely manner," contributing significantly to an "amazing" dining experience.
• Exquisite Desserts: Umi is also celebrated for its unique desserts, particularly the "Donut Touch my Donut" (a chewy/mochi-like bite with a crispy exterior) and the coveted "Chocolate Kyu" (a Valrhona chocolate sphere with intricate fillings), offering a delightful conclusion to the meal.
• Curated Beverage List: An extensive selection of exclusive craft sake, premium wines, champagnes, and classic cocktails, curated by a Level III Advanced Sommelier, perfectly complements the culinary offerings.

As a high-end Japanese restaurant, Umi's approach to "promotions" often leans more towards exclusive experiences and seasonal features rather than traditional discounts. For local users in Atlanta, Georgia, interested in what Umi offers beyond its standard menu, here are the types of special offerings they might encounter or inquire about:

• Omakase Experience: The "M by Tasuku Murakami" omakase is itself a highly exclusive and curated offering. While it comes at a premium price, it represents a unique culinary journey guided by the chef, showcasing the best available ingredients. This is a primary "special offer" in terms of a unique dining experience.
• Seasonal and Limited-Time Dishes: Umi frequently features seasonal ingredients and special preparations based on the freshest catches flown in. These rotating specials provide a dynamic menu that offers new flavors and culinary surprises to regular patrons.
• Curated Beverage Pairings: With a Level III Advanced Sommelier on staff, Umi may offer special sake or wine pairing suggestions designed to perfectly complement their dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.
• Private Event Packages: For larger groups or corporate events, Umi's private dining options, such as The Murphy Room or a full restaurant buyout, can be considered a special offering, providing an exclusive setting and tailored menus for bespoke occasions.
• Artist-in-Residency Program: Umi occasionally features art installations through its artist-in-residency program. While not a direct food promotion, this enhances the ambiance and provides a unique cultural element to the dining experience.

To stay informed about Umi's latest culinary features or any special events, Georgia residents are encouraged to visit Umi's official website or call the restaurant directly. Given the exclusive nature of some of their offerings, direct inquiry is often the best way to learn about the most current experiences available.

For those in the Atlanta, Georgia, area wishing to experience the exquisite Japanese cuisine and luxurious ambiance of Umi, here is the essential contact information:

Address: Two Buckhead Plaza, 3050 Peachtree Rd Suite #1, Atlanta, GA 30305, USA

Phone: (404) 841-0040

You can use this phone number to make reservations, inquire about their menu, confirm current operating hours, or ask about private dining options. Given its popularity and high demand, especially for the omakase experience, making reservations well in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred dining time. Remember that Umi is a cashless establishment and accepts credit cards only.

For discerning locals in Atlanta, Georgia, Umi stands as an exemplary choice for Japanese dining, particularly for those who appreciate a truly elevated culinary experience. Its suitability for the local community, especially for special occasions or when a luxurious meal is desired, is rooted in several compelling factors.

Foremost is Umi's unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity. The consistent praise for its "fresh and tender fish" and the "juicy" Wagyu steak speaks to the restaurant's dedication to sourcing the finest ingredients, some flown directly from Japan. This meticulous approach to quality, coupled with the expertise of Co-Executive Chefs Tasuku Murakami and Todd Dae Kulper, ensures that every dish is not just a meal, but a culinary masterpiece. For Georgians who are passionate about genuine Japanese flavors and appreciate the artistry involved in high-end sushi and hot dishes, Umi delivers an experience that is consistently deemed "worth every penny."

Secondly, the ambiance and service at Umi create an exceptional dining environment. The elegant, contemporary setting, designed with thoughtful Japanese aesthetics, provides a sophisticated backdrop perfect for a romantic anniversary dinner or an important celebration. Coupled with the "absolutely amazing" and attentive service, diners are made to feel special and well-cared for, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the meal. This combination of exquisite food, stunning decor, and impeccable service positions Umi as a top choice for creating memorable moments.

Finally, its prime location in Buckhead Plaza makes Umi a prominent and accessible destination within Atlanta for those seeking a premium Japanese experience. The convenience of valet parking and its central position within a bustling, high-end district contribute to its ease of access for many across the metro area. For locals seeking an extraordinary Japanese culinary journey where every detail is meticulously curated, Umi offers an unparalleled experience that elevates dining to an art form, making it a truly suitable and highly recommended destination in Georgia.

Umi

Two Buckhead Plaza, 3050 Peachtree Rd Suite #1, Atlanta, GA 30305, USA