Hello dear
Welcome to UMI Japanese Restaurant
At UMI Japanese Restaurant, we invite you to embark on a culinary journey into the heart of Japan, right in Hickory, NC. Our intimate setting, with only a handful of tables, creates a serene atmosphere perfect for savoring expertly crafted seafood dishes. We take pride in offering fresh sushi, delicate sashimi, and a variety of flavorful entrees, including our popular tonkatsu and grilled eel. Each dish is prepared with care, balancing tradition with innovative flair. With warm service and a cozy vibe, UMI is more than just a restaurant; it’s a delightful escape for food lovers seeking an unforgettable dining experience.
Today's Suggestions
Explore the featured selections!
Miso Soup
Maguro Zuke Rolls
Ocean's Wink
Nohara no Rolls
About
UMI Japanese Restaurant
Welcome to UMI Japanese Restaurant, a hidden gem located at 40 Cloninger Mill Rd NE, Hickory, NC 28601. This intimate spot specializes in Japanese seafood and offers a serene dining experience that transports you straight to the heart of Japan. Known for its meticulously crafted sushi and an array of traditional dishes, UMI set the stage for a remarkable culinary journey.
The atmosphere at UMI is inviting and warm, with only a few tables allowing for an exclusive dining experience. Guests often rave about the ambiance, which strikes the perfect balance between cozy and elegant. It’s no wonder that many couples choose UMI for special occasions, as evidenced by glowing reviews from patrons like Raven Nightloft and Chantel Nicole, who celebrated anniversaries surrounded by the restaurant's enchanting décor.
- Appetizers: Begin your meal with the comforting Miso Soup or indulge in the refreshing Seaweed Salad. The Soft Shell Crab and Sashimi options are not to be missed, providing a taste of the ocean that’s both delicate and satisfying.
- Entrees: UMI features an impressive selection of entrees, including the beloved Tonkatsu Dinner and the beautifully presented Sashimi Dinner. For a taste of hearty flavors, the Yakiniku Dinner and Katsu Curry showcase rich textures and authentic Japanese seasonings.
- Noodles: Don't overlook the noodle offerings! The Ramen and Tempura Udon promise a comforting touch, perfect for those craving a warm embrace of flavor.
UMI's commitment to quality shines through in every dish, as attested by customers like Mariah G, who appreciates the freshness and care that goes into each creation. The perfectly grilled eel and tender Tekka Don (marinated tuna) are exemplary of the restaurant's dedication to exceptional dining. For lovers of sushi, the restaurant consistently impresses with its clean and fresh offerings, a sentiment echoed by diners such as Joey Yoder, who celebrates UMI as an unmatched destination for sushi enthusiasts.
If you’re planning to visit UMI, note that reservations are highly recommended. The owners are responsive and accommodating—ensuring a seamless experience before you even step foot inside. Your visit to UMI Japanese Restaurant guarantees more than just a meal; it invites you to savor a piece of Japan right in Hickory. Don’t miss the unique dining experience that awaits!
For reservations, contact them at (828) 322-5511. Indulge in a journey of flavors at UMI Japanese Restaurant, where every bite tells a story and every meal is a celebration.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ My wife and I dined for our anniversary, and the food was simply incredible. We mostly had sushi and sashimi, but the tonkatsu was also very good. It was well worth the money spent. I would absolutely recommend to anyone looking for a lovely quiet night. They do prefer reservations, but it is well worth the call. Also, to the lovely woman whom let us dine tonight without one, thank you so much for accommodating us. ”
“ UMI provides a serene atmosphere with only three or four tables. We have dined several times with delicious food at each visit! They take pride in quality, fresh food and excellent service. We will return again and again, with a reservation of course. We loved the grilled eel and Tekka don marinated tuna especially. ”
“ First time here for our anniversary. Very nice atmosphere. Sushi was clean, fresh, and delicious. Miso soup and edamame were also very good. We were gifted two roses, and the service was perfect. ”
“ UMI delivers an exceptional dining experience, boasting fresh and meticulously crafted sushi dishes that leave a lasting impression. Whether savoring traditional classics or innovative creations, every bite bursts with flavor and freshness. The inviting ambiance further enhances the overall dining journey. UMI consistently exceeds expectations with its topnotch quality and attentive service. A mustvisit destination for any sushi enthusiast craving an unforgettable dining experience. ”
“ A truly unparalleled and unprecedented intimate dining experience. For starters, you will need a reservation, but they are easy enough to make via phone and the owners are quite responsive in getting back to you about availability. The place itself is a little unassuming from the outside, as it is part of a shopping block area with not much to see externally. Inside, however, you literally feel like you are transported to the Japanese countryside with lush and vibrant decorations, a small and romantic dining area literally only about four or five tables, and some of the best service I have ever received. The food left me speechless. Multiple courses and multiple options are on the table with everything from a simple yet delicious miso bowl to some of the best nigiri Ive ever laid my taste buds on. TLDR version probably some of the best sushi you will ever have this far from the coast, and the tiny yet romantic dining area with incredible service just puts icing on the cake. If Google offered 10 Stars I would give each and every one of them. ”
“ Wow! Umi was a 5 star experience all around. Excellent food and atmosphere. It is small and elegant. The service goes above and beyond we were able to learn about the family traditions and recent trips. Easily my favorite restaurant experience in Hickory! ”
“ Food was very simple, fresh, and had lots of flavor. It was expertly prepared. They only have 3 tables and it is only by appointment. They were full when we went on a weekday so youd likely have to plan way ahead of time. Overall very nice experience. ”
“ I highly recommend this for your next date night! If you love sushi, this is the spot for you! This was my second time dining here, and both times were absolutely fantastic! Plus I love supporting local business!! Thank you UMI!! ”