‘Uchi’ Arrives & DC’s Sushi Boom Shows No Signs Of Slowing

Washington’s sushi scene is on a serious roll.

From intimate omakase counters to splashy new arrivals, the District’s appetite for pristine fish and polished hospitality continues to grow. The latest, and perhaps most anticipated, addition is Uchi, the nationally acclaimed Austin import that opened mid-May in Dupont Circle, adding another marquee name to the capital’s ever-expanding collection of destination sushi spots.

Founded by James Beard Award-winning chef Tyson Cole, under the leadership of Chef de Cuisine Rob Drennan (whose résumé includes Rose’s Luxury, Pineapple and Pearls, Little Pearl, and three-Michelin-starred Maaemo in Oslo) Uchi’s menu is equal parts precision and playfulness.

Fan favorites like Hama Chili pair yellowtail with Thai chili ponzu and orange, while the comforting Sasami Yaki layers coconut-braised chicken with Japanese technique. The sizzling Hot Rock invites diners to sear Australian wagyu tableside, and the legendary Fried Milk dessert remains a must-order finale.

Cocktails continue the conversation, with sake-forward creations like the Nikko Martini and Japanese whisky Highballs crafted to complement every course. Hot tip: Weekday happy hour is poised to become one of Dupont’s hottest tickets, offering exclusive hand rolls, skewers, sake cocktails, and even an omakase tasting for two.

And rest assured — Uchi’s setting is just as carefully curated as the sushi. Designed by Islyn Studio, the 185-seat restaurant channels Washington’s glamorous 1960s era of martinis, modernism, and espionage. Rich textures, moody lighting, and cinematic details transform the sushi counter into center stage while private dining rooms nod to the city’s celebrated cherry blossoms.