Chef Kazuo Yoshida Brings Exclusive Omakase Dining to Atlanta at M @ Umi

An intimate eight-seat culinary experience in Buckhead redefines Japanese fine dining in Atlanta

Atlanta’s food scene continues to evolve, blending global influences with Southern hospitality. The latest addition to Buckhead’s luxury dining district is M @ Umi, a jewel-box omakase led by world-renowned chef Kazuo Yoshida. Starting September 24, 2025, this eight-seat omakase counter offers a 19-course “Kazuo-style” tasting menu, designed to immerse diners in Japanese tradition, modern artistry, and the highest level of hospitality.

_{Photo Credits to M @ Um}

A Chef with Global Recognition

Born in Nagasaki, Japan, Chef Kazuo Yoshida has more than three decades of experience shaping omakase dining in the United States. Since arriving in New York City in 1992, Yoshida has made his mark at acclaimed restaurants like Jewel Bako, MYUMI in Miami, and Juku in Manhattan. His mastery of sea urchin earned him the nickname “Uni King”, and his signature style continues to push the boundaries of sushi craftsmanship.

In the last 10 months, Yoshida has transformed the sushi program at Umi in Buckhead, bringing both precision and warmth. Central to his approach is omotenashi—the Japanese philosophy of hospitality that goes beyond service to create an atmosphere of respect, care, and connection.

_{Photo Credits to M @ Um}

A Jewel Box Above Umi

Hidden one floor above Umi Modern Japanese, the new omakase counter offers a contrast to the bustling dining room below. The 250-square-foot dining space, designed by Tom Dixon’s Design Research Studio in collaboration with Gareth Payne Studio, creates an intimate and refined setting.

Guests are seated at a sleek maple chef’s counter with only eight bar stools, encouraging close interaction with the chef. Warm lighting, white yakisugi walls made from charred cedar, and an oversized painting by Atlanta artist Todd Murphy complete the atmosphere. The design mirrors Yoshida’s cuisine—elegant, refined, and deeply thoughtful.

The Omakase Journey

The 19-course experience is nigiri-focused, evolving weekly to highlight seasonal ingredients and the chef’s inspiration. Diners can expect:

• Bonito salad with delicate flavors

• Madai sashimi showcasing pristine texture

• A wagyu hand roll topped with caviar

• Uni risotto for which Yoshida is famed

• Butter-poached lobster with subtle Japanese accents

• Nigiri highlights like golden-eye red snapper, chutoro, and barracuda

Each evening concludes with inventive desserts such as hibiscus sorbet or tamago with chocolate, a Yoshida signature that surprises and delights.

Drinks to Match the Experience

The omakase menu is elevated by beverage pairings curated by Level III sommelier Joon Lim. Guests can enjoy rare sakes, bespoke wine selections, Japanese beers, and crafted cocktails designed to complement the progression of flavors.

A New Standard for Fine Dining in Atlanta

With seating limited to just eight guests per night—Wednesday through Friday at 7 p.m.—M @ Umi offers one of Atlanta’s most exclusive dining experiences. It is not just a meal but a performance: a carefully choreographed journey through flavors, textures, and traditions that leave a lasting impression.

Looking to experience one of Atlanta’s most exclusive dining offerings? Plan your visit to M @ Umi in Buckhead and savor a rare omakase crafted by Chef Kazuo Yoshida.

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 I’m Nadine Lutz, one of Atlanta's top Realtors and a trusted Atlanta, Georgia Real Estate Agent with Compass Buckhead, and Atlanta has been home to my family since 2003. Over the years, I’ve been blessed to help so many neighbors achieve their real estate goals, and I’m honored to be recognized with the Phoenix Award and as a Multi-Million Dollar Club Life Member with the Atlanta Realtors Association.

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Q: Where is M @ Umi located?

A: It’s located above Umi Modern Japanese in Buckhead, Atlanta.

Q: How many guests can dine per night?

A: The omakase experience is limited to just eight guests per evening.

Q: What makes Chef Kazuo Yoshida unique?

A: Known as the “Uni King”, Chef Yoshida brings over 30 years of omakase mastery, blending Japanese tradition with innovative artistry.

Q: What is omotenashi?

A: Omotenashi is the Japanese philosophy of hospitality, ensuring each guest feels cared for beyond just the meal itself.

Nadine Lutz 

📧 [email protected]
📞 770-713-5449
🌐 nadinesellsatlanta.com

Compass Atlanta
Atlanta Real Estate Agent | Atlanta, Georgia Real Estate Agent