Austin-based Hai Hospitality has debuted Uchi West Hollywood in California. The opening marks the restaurant group’s sixth Uchi location and its first venture on the West Coast.
Founded by James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole, Uchi—meaning “house” in Japanese—first launched in Austin, Texas in 2003. “It has long been a dream of mine to bring Uchi to the West Coast,” says Cole. “Los Angeles is one of the most vibrant and exciting culinary cities in the country, with some of the best sushi in the world and we’re so excited to be a part of that.”
The new outpost, located on the ground floor of the Nine Thousand One luxury residential development, spans more than 6,000 square feet. Crafted by local design firm ORA, Uchi West Hollywood is a multisensory dining experience that converges Los Angeles and Japanese design sensibilities.
The interior concept is built around a screen of large vertical wood slabs, sourced from local city street trees, that immediately draw guests into the space.
“The goal from the very start was to choreograph an experience,” says James Guillou, former associate principal at ORA. “These slabs are tightly spaced at first but open to reveal dynamic views as you turn the corner, creating a sense of transformation that continues as you move through the space.”
A zen garden-inspired ceiling ties the design elements together, resulting in an immersive-yet-tranquil dining atmosphere. Large openings connect diners to a spacious patio, reflecting Southern California’s indoor-outdoor lifestyle.
“All your senses are engaged… all the small details combine to create an experience to match Uchi’s beautiful cuisine and exceptional service,” Guillou adds.
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