What’s the big deal about this O-Ku sushi restaurant opening this August in South End?
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Charlotte foodies and sushi lovers are freaking out that O-Ku is coming to South End. Construction is wrapping up and the sushi restaurant is targeting an August opening.
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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).
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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.
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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.
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The sushi bar will be in the back right of the restaurant with seating.
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To give you an idea of the vibe, here’s a look at the interior from their Charleston location.
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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)
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What will you drink at O-Ku? Beverages include craft cocktails, premium sake, champagnes, wines and unique beer selections.
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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.
