Umi — Restaurant in Atlanta

So, this was an interesting experience. I was unsure about whether I wanted to visit, because of the incident with the shoes a few months ago, but I decided, why not! Upon arriving, it was difficult for me to find because of the construction, but, a quick call and I was directed to the entrance. I noticed, that people were wearing sneakers, so the video of the owner talking to T.I. saying that sneakers will be allowed is true. Upon entering, it was a bit dark and very crowded. I wasn't too crazy about seeing patrons sitting and enjoying their drinks etc as soon as you walk in the door. I was unsure where the line was, who to talk to , or where to go in the restaurant. A gentleman approached me with a tablet after a few minutes of waiting and escorted me to my table.

So, let's talk about the service. I was expecting an over the top experience, yet the service is just normal service. There was nothing outstanding or spectacular about the service. There were times when I didn't know who my server was, or when it was time to order drinks or food. It was very crowded, dark and loud. Let me be clear, it was not bad service. It was just basic , restaurant service. After about 40 minutes, our server became more interactive and interested in our needs.

Food: Our ticket was only $421 bucks. The house salad with the ginger dressing, OMG!! We were not too crazy about the Waygu roll or the Waygu Nigiri. But everything else was absolutely amazing.

Take-a-way: If the service was a bit more personal, I could see myself giving it 5 stars. I have to say this again, this service was not bad at all. It was not subpar or mediocre. It was just normal service. Nothing stood out. Did I feel great leaving an $80 tip? meh, not for real, but, I didn't feel ripped off. Just feel as if the service can be a lot better. Great service causes one to spend more money.

Will I return? Yes, I will return, because my guest wanted the fried donut and it was not available and she really wants to try it. lol

Will we spend $500 bucks? Probably not.

Not sure if it's an experience that I care to share with someone else, because it doesn't impress. But, I am not saying this as a bad thing. I am just saying, this isn't a place I would take a new date, because I doubt they would be impressed. But, a place for friends to have a good night out together, this is the place. I will try again and see if there is a difference.

As far as the video of the black guy on YouTube and the discrimination, I didn't feel out of place, or mistreated, or treated less than because of my race. Not at one time was I treated as if I was in the wrong place, or not dressed appropriately etc. It was overall a good experience. Not a bad experience at all, just could be an...

Truly abysmal customer service. We had a reservation for a party of 8. A few of us were flying in and coming straight to the restaurant. My friends flight was delayed so she was going to arrive late. I explained the situation and asked if we could be seated and start ordering, however they stated the entire party needed to be present and they would do a “head count” prior to seating us. I understand the reason behind this policy but we don’t need to be treated like kindergarteners. We were waiting at the very cramped bar and My husband joined us after closing our tab at the bar next door. He was wearing sandals (again because we had just flown in). We were told he would not be allowed in according to their dress code. I explained that we were traveling from out of town and so didn’t have time to change and honestly the idea of a strict dress code at a decent but my no means Michelin starred restaurant seems antiquated and frankly absurdly self important. I told them that that was fine and they could cancel the reservation and we would dine at a more inclusive establishment. The manager said that because they were losing a table of 8 they would still be charging the $50 pp reservation cancellation fee to my credit card. I told him I would dispute the charge with the credit card company since we did not cancel and were in actuality denied service and he stated that he would make sure I was no longer welcome at their restaurant. We left and had dinner at King and Duke down the street. They had no issue with my husband’s attire. Of note, as we were leaving I saw people entering the restaurant in casual sneakers, and even one woman exiting in yoga pants, a gym shirt and gym shoes. Unclear to me why this is ok and yet we were denied service because of a pair of sandals. I will not be returning to this restaurant again. One would think modern consumer and hospitality dependent businesses would recognize that dogmatic adherence to outdated standards of dress/appearance is arbitrary...

Umi Sushi is a chic and sophisticated dining destination in the trendy Buckhead area of Atlanta, GA exudes an air of elegance and refinement. If you ever can find the door, you are transported into a realm of sleek sophistication and refined elegance. It embodies the philosophy of omotenashi, or the spirit of hospitality, where every detail is carefully considered to ensure a memorable dining experience. Soft lighting and subtle Japanese-inspired décor envelop you in an atmosphere of warmth and authenticity. Master Sushi chefs work their magic, crafting extortionary creations, a masterpiece of freshness, precision, and artistry. It is the perfect destination for sushi enthusiasts and discerning diners alike, seeking a culinary adventure.

🍲What I Tasted: For starters a collection of tender cuts of tuna as nigiri and tataki that melt in your mouth. My main course featuring tuna and sautéed foie gras, a delicacy with a rich, buttery texture and luxurious flavor with a velvety smoothness that coats the palate. And let us not forget my dessert that was described on the menu only as “Just order it. No words can do it justice.” —a warm cake donut paired with almost frozen custard, a heavenly perfect balance of sweet and textures to treat for the senses. And of course, I tried the Tamago, and it was executed to demonstrate the chef's skills and dedication to the craft.

💡 Standout Feature: Umi is more than just a restaurant; it is a celebration of culinary tradition and craftsmanship. Each dish is a labor of love, reflecting the dedication and passion of the chefs. It is a place where simplicity meets sophistication, and every bite tells a story of artistry and skill.

⚠️ What Was Mid: While Umi's discreet facade adds to its allure, finding the entrance can be more than a bit of a challenge for first-time visitors. But trust me, the culinary journey that awaits inside is well worth the effort of locating this hidden treasure. Also, trust me if you cannot find it you need to...