What’s the big deal about this O-Ku sushi restaurant opening this August in South End?

O-Ku will be located on the ground floor of the Atherton Mill building that has Sola Salons signage (25 yards from to Big Ben Pub).

Why is this a big deal? O-Ku sushi is one of the hottest restaurants in Charleston and recently expanded to Atlanta. It’s legit.

O-Ku was named one of the Top 20 Best New Restaurants by Esquire magazine and a Best Sushi Restaurant in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure.

What will it look like inside? Think exposed brick, open and high ceilings. The bar will be in the back left with seating and high tables surrounding it.

The sushi bar will be in the back right of the restaurant with seating.

To give you an idea of the vibe, here’s a look at the interior from their Charleston location.

What will you be eating? O-Ku describes itself as “Asian cuisine with a Southern approach.” Think small plates and sushi. Here’s a few menu highlights (view full menu here)

O-Ku Spring Roll – tuna, salmon, whitefish, mixed greens, wonton crisps, avocado, cilantro wasabi aioli, sesame sauce ($12)

Tuna Tartare – asian pear, avocado, tobiko, wonton, quail egg ($16).

Spicy Sesame Pork Belly – melted red cabbage, kimchee puree ($15)

Surf & Turf Roll – wagyu beef, tempura shrimp, avocado, microgreens, red onion marmalade ($16)

Rainbow Roll – seafood wrapped, filled with snow crab, cucumber, avocado, masago ($14)

Pan-seared Scallops – carrots, turnips, cauliflower puree, umeboshi gastrique ($28)

What will you drink at O-Ku? Beverages include craft cocktails, premium sake, champagnes, wines and unique beer selections.

What will O-Ku hours be?

• Monday – Thursday from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
• Friday – Saturday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
• Sunday from 5 to 10 p.m.
• Agenda Pro Tip: There will be a Sushi Happy Hour from 5 to 7 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays featuring half off all sushi rolls.