A Culinary Gem in Atlanta
Since opening its doors in May 2013, UMI has established itself as a must-visit destination for sushi enthusiasts and culinary connoisseurs in Atlanta. With a menu showcasing the finest nigiri, sushi rolls, and traditional Japanese dishes, UMI attracts not only locals but also visitors and celebrities seeking an unparalleled dining experience.
Meet the Culinary Masters
At the helm of UMI is Chef Todd Dae Kulper, known for his innovative approach to Japanese cuisine. Complementing his vision is Chef Kazuo Yoshida, who leads the sushi program and oversees the exclusive M @ UMI omakase room. Together, they create dishes that highlight the freshest fish and proteins sourced from around the globe, ensuring every bite is a celebration of flavor.
A Diverse Menu for Every Palate
UMI’s dining room menu features an impressive array of sushi options, including:
- Sashimi
- Traditional Nigiri
- Sousaku Nigiri – Chef’s signature creations
- Box Sushi
- Specialty Traditional & House Rolls that span continents
In addition to sushi, Chef Todd’s hot dishes offer modern twists on classic Japanese recipes. Must-try items include:
- Wagyu Carpaccio – Featuring garlic, wasabi, chive, quickly seared oil, grated black truffle & 24-month-aged Parmigiano Reggiano
- Lobster Toban-Yaki – A delightful dish with lobster beurre noisette
- Charred Chutoro Tataki – Accompanied by a yuzu wakame su-miso sauce
The Omakase Experience: A Culinary Journey
For those who prefer to leave the decision-making to the experts, M @ UMI offers an intimate omakase experience for just eight guests three nights a week (Thursday-Saturday). This serene setting above the main dining room provides an exquisite environment for an unforgettable meal.
Guests can also opt for a more expansive omakase option called UMI-kase, which includes:
- A coursed starter
- Sashimi plate
- Hot dish
- Ten-piece nigiri
- Soup and dessert
Additionally, UMI caters to vegetarian and vegan diners with tasting menus featuring:
- Eggplant Misoyaki – Topped with crispy garlic & nori furikake
- King Oyster Mushroom Toban – Cooked in soy brown butter
Desserts That Delight
To conclude the dining experience, UMI offers an array of desserts that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Highlights include:
- Mille Crepes – Delicate layers of crepes filled with light vanilla pastry cream
- Donut Touch My Donut – A must-try for those in the know
- Chocolate Kyu – A Valrhona chocolate sphere filled with fresh berries, red bean pastry cream, and mascarpone cream infused with Yamazaki 18-year whisky sauce. Only a dozen are available each night!
To cap off the meal, guests are treated to a locally made Jardi Chocolate bonbon, filled with raspberry ganache and crispy pearls bursting with flavor.
Extending the Night at Himitsu
Adjacent to UMI is Himitsu, a hidden Japanese craft cocktail lounge that serves as the perfect after-dinner destination. Here, guests can enjoy a cocktail menu crafted by renowned beverage expert Shingo Gokan, alongside premium spirits, sake, wine, and a selection of UMI’s best dishes. This seamless transition from dinner to cocktail lounge is designed to create a memorable dining experience that lasts into the night.
An Unmatched Dining Experience
UMI stands out not only for its exceptional culinary offerings but also for its commitment to providing an unforgettable dining experience. From the skilled chefs to the thoughtfully curated menu, each element contributes to a sensory journey that delights both the eyes and the palate. If you haven’t yet experienced UMI, it’s time to make a reservation and indulge in Atlanta’s premier sushi destination.
We encourage our readers to share their experiences at UMI in the comments below or reach out with any questions. Your feedback helps our community grow!
Call to Action
Ready to elevate your dining experience? Visit UMI’s website to make a reservation today! Discover why this restaurant is a top choice for food lovers in Atlanta.
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Floral, Politz is also the Co-founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.
