UMI Japanese Restaurant
| Address: | 40 Cloninger Mill Rd NE, Hickory, NC 28601, USA |
| Phone: | +1 828-322-5511 |
| Site: | umihickory.com |
| Rating: | 4.8 |
| Working: | 5:30–9PM 5:30–9PM 5:30–9PM 5:30–9PM 5:30–9PM 5:30–9PM Closed |
Location
Photos 100
Reviews 22
PA
Paul Crockett
I wasnt quite sure to expect from this place (other than a tiny dining room), but from the moment I walked in I was surprised and delighted. The environment was calm and soothing, and the hostess was attentive without being overbearing. Most importantly, the food was amazing. My deep fried pork loin was perfectly crispy, and the rice didnt even need the soy sauce I put on it. Even the green tea was something special. Im not a tea drinker, but I guzzled the whole pot like it was Gatorade on a hot day. My wife and I finished our meal with green tea ice cream that lived up to the high standards set by the rest of the meal. While we were eating, I overheard someone at the next table say that if this place were in New York, there would be a six-month waiting list. I completely agree.
GE
George Skelton
Had date nite last evening with my wife and went here for the first time. FYI, you have to make reservations you cannot just show up (made that mistake a week prior). The owners are Japanese and youre served as if you are a guest in their home. The atmosphere, meal and service were outstanding. I highly suggest the plum wine as its out of this world. The appetizer of vegetable tempura was perfect and the sushi my wife & I shared were some of the best Ive ever had (and Ive had lots of sushi). So if you want a meal to remember then go here. Its the perfect place to relax and enjoy a wonderful meal with that special person in your life.
DU
Dustin Gragg
Umi provides the most authentic and high-quality Japanese dining experience Ive found in the US. The restaurant is operated by Japanese expatriates, and you get all of the benefits you hear about with Japanese customer service when you dine here. The food is exactly what you might get overseas from an upscale Tokyo eatery and the menu is broad enough that I could eat there every day for a month and never get tired of it. Umi is, hands down, my favorite restaurant in the Foothills.
BE
Ben Copeland
Umi is a great restaurant. The owners are from Japan and the food is authentic. If you are from this area, Im sure you are used to all of the "Japanese Steakhouses" that are around. If so, come to Umi prepared to be amazed by the tastiness of real Japanese food. If you are planning to eat here on a Friday or Saturday evening, you may want to make reservations. The dining area has limited space and it fills up fast. Recommended dishes: Gyudon Katsu Curry Tonkatsu
JO
John Shirreffs
Clean and minimal setting with very courteous and competent staff. The food is fresh wholesome. This is NOT some sushi bar. This is a Japanese restaurant serving carefully prepared quality ingredients at an unpretentious price. The only thing is the location. Its on Cloninger Mill Rd near the hwy 127 intersection. But when youre seated, you cant help but feel you are somewhere special.
BE
Betty Ikerd
I always love going to Umis Restaurant. The atmosphere is lovely and relaxing and the food is by far the best Japanese in our area. I took our two grandsons recently and they loved the experience and thought the food was great. It is so nice to have such a unique place with exceptional food in Hickory. Thank you for the quality and personal touch you give us each time we come to dine.
A
A Private User
as bumpkins from western NC who have lived in NYC,ATL,DC and San Fran we are so glad this place is here. The food is outstanding, the genuine care and yearning to share the cuisine and culture of the owners native Japan is apparent in the way they explain and advise the courses of an outstanding meal. We can not rave enough!!! We are glad UMI is here!!!!
FA
fanjoy labrenz
Peaceful, elegant atmosphere off the beaten path, once you step in the door you are transported to a tranquil place. The exquisite, authentic Japanese food is artfully presented and the husband and wife owners are a gift to our community! Treat yourself to a 5 star experience and be sure to make a reservation!
ST
Stephen Andrews
My wife and I have eaten there 3 times now, every meal has been absolutely delicious. Ive been half-way around the world and this is the most delicious Japanese food Ive had in the states. Wonderful and peaceful dining experience. This place is definitely or favorite place to eat. Call ahead for reservations.
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A Private User
Umi is absolutely amazing. I am extremely picky when it comes to food, especially sushi, and I was blown away by the sushi at Umi. It was very fresh, succulent, and the perfect blend of flavors. The owner was very kind and the atmosphere and ambience is relaxing and cozy. I give Umi 10 stars.
A
A Private User
Had lunch there today nobody in the place but us.it is a very small place as mentioned like maybe only like 6 tables.The food was very good but very small portions like appetizers.Paid 25.oo and left hungry so the wife and I shared a fake Japaneese meal.Doubt we will go back.
JA
jasonmazzy
This, tiny, 4 table restaurant is run by a Japanese husband and wife. It is as close to eating in japan as you are likely to encounter. True sake is served (try the nigori for a burst of sweet and slightly overripe melon with a velvety finish). Was a pleasant experience.
TH
Thomas Yordy
I lived in Japan for eight years and this place has the only authentic food around. Additionally, the food tastes amazing! Every other japanese food restaurant sells food that no japanese person would recognize. If you want the real deal then come here!
CH
chris harris
Love, love, love this new(er) entery on the Hickory nicer restaurant scene and will definitely be returning soon! Had fabulous dinner with friends and really enjoyed all the tapas and small plate options as well as the wine list and cocktails.
CA
Candy Watson
Fantastic!! Authentic Japanese food! Even my kids enjoy it! If you like sushi, you have GOT to try this place! Just make sure to make reservations if you plan on going on a weekend especially; it is a small, cozy, but wonderful find. :)
JI
Jim Barbano
I have been going to Umi for 10 years, and it is perfect. Great atmosphere, awesome food, Sotoko (not sure on spelling) is as sweet as can be. If you you want a first class Sushi experience, there is no better place in the area.
RO
Robert Backman
This place is so cute, professional, and quiet. A perfect personal touch to the service and great place for a peaceful meal from the loud popular places like applebees. I recommend making a reservation. Limited seating.
A
A Private User
This is amazing authentic Japanese food. Not like any regular hibachi or sushi joint youve been to. Make a reservation, its small and intimate, but that means the service is beyond excellent. You must try this place!
A
A Private User
UMIs rocks! Authentic restaurant with loads of flavor. Limited sushi menu but very good. Small cozy dining and a blessing to Hickory. Other "japanese" restaurants pale in comparison to Umi. Yeah Umi is here!
AN
Anthony Alderman
Wow. I cannot believe this place is in Hickory. Thats a not a slam against Hickory b/c Umi would be amazing anywhere. If you like sushi and Japanese style food, get over there. Seriously.
JE
Jeff Aderholdt
Reservations mandatory? I drove 45 miles just to be turned away at the door being told I had to have a reservation. There were no customers there, period. We were the only ones there.
A
A Private User
A wonderful personal experience along with the delicious food. What a refreshing change to have the care and consideration about your dining experience.
