Why Umi Sushi Bar & Grill is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

Umi Sushi Bar & Grill is a beloved sushi destination known for its fresh, high-quality ingredients and inviting atmosphere that makes it an ideal spot to meet up with friends. The restaurant offers both traditional and innovative sushi rolls, expertly prepared by skilled chefs who often engage with guests, enhancing the dining experience. Beyond sushi, the menu features a variety of Japanese dishes that cater to diverse tastes. The ambiance is lively and welcoming, with options to dine at the bar or in cozy seating areas. Happy hours provide great value, drawing crowds who appreciate the combination of delicious food, good drinks, and a fun, sociable setting. Umi’s commitment to community and quality service reinforces its reputation as a memorable place to enjoy with company. The clean environment and friendly staff contribute to a comfortable experience, making Umi Sushi Bar & Grill a great choice for casual get-togethers or celebratory dinners.

Here's what people think of Umi Sushi Bar & Grill

As of recent, Umi Sushi Bar & Grill holds a 4.4-star rating based on 2152 reviews.

Reviews of Umi Sushi Bar & Grill generally reflect a positive dining experience overall, with a 4.4-star rating out of over 2,000 reviews highlighting its popularity. Many reviewers praised the freshness and quality of the sushi and sashimi, noting that the chefs prepare dishes skillfully and even personalize orders when requested. The atmosphere is consistently mentioned as lively and pleasant, with some reviews highlighting enjoyable happy hour deals and a great bar experience with music and a vibrant crowd. Service is often described as friendly and attentive, with staff willing to go the extra mile to accommodate guests' preferences. Positive reviews emphasize the restaurant’s good value, clean setting, and delicious food that make it an outstanding sushi spot. On the other hand, some reviews point out occasional inconsistencies in service or food quality, and a few consider the prices somewhat higher compared to other options. Nonetheless, these critiques are relatively few and generally outweighed by the many positive comments. In conclusion, Umi Sushi Bar & Grill is widely regarded as an excellent place for sushi lovers seeking a fun, flavorful, and well-rounded dining experience, ideal for meeting friends and enjoying quality Japanese cuisine.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Alex G

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

You dont usually go to a sushi place for a steak, but in my case, I sure as heck will. My wife loves seafood, so when it was her night to choose a place i had no option but to oblige. I was pleasantly surprised that this place served ribeye. I ordered the umi rib-eye steak, fried Brussels and gyoza. Wife had the crispy spicy shrimp and the tempura roll. Wife loved her order, it wasn't too spicy for her, just the right amount of spiciness and tang. The zucchini fritti was shared between me and the Wife, it was a good shareable, came with a tasty sauce dipping that was sweet and tangy as well. The gyoza was the best I have tasted so far from any establishment! It came fresh and hot, crisped to perfection! I will be comming here for the gyoza alone! Now what surprised me the most was how good the rib eye was! It was served to me medium rare like i had asked, the mushroom and rice brown wine sauce gave my ribeye a nice hint of sweetness to it while still being incredibly tender, the mushrooms and scallions went well with it, all accompanied with a side of buttery mashed potato and lightly salted and peppered grilled asparagus, for the price it was amazing! Im happy I was able to enjoy my food here as im not the biggest fan of seafood, it came as a pleasant surprise. The server was amazing and always attentive to us, i am happy to have been served by Nic 10/10 service!

Steve Takata

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I was debating about giving Umi three stars or four stars, but ultimately gave it three mostly because the music was loud enough that it was not that pleasant to hang out there. The sushi is good, but the music makes you want to eat and run. The people working there were a little bit clueless about things that people in a sushi restaurant should know. I asked about a couple of types of sushi, not on the menu, and they did not know what they were, and then when I ordered salmon skin, I asked the waitress if they could put shiso and gobo in it. She said she had never heard of either one. Nonetheless, the restaurant actually had both, but the people taking the orders didn’t know what they were. That’s not so good. They also had real wasabi which the minority of sushi restaurants have and is much better than the fake wasabi, which is just horseradish with green food coloring. They have a bar, but the bar is especially loud, and another sushi bar, which is a little quieter. If they had not had a live DJ there, I think it probably would not have been as loud there.

Roger Posada

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Angie it's great customer service. This is our first time here with my friend, sammy and roger and made it a great experience and made the experience Great definitely recommend it will come back and future it.

Jesse Perez

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Food was delicious. Texas basketball was on in the bar. And Yaels" friendly demeanor topped off my dinner there nicely. I do recommend the who Dat roll if your a fan of fried sushi. It definitely played on the palate.

Steven Jones

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

First time coming to Umi and it won’t be my last. Their food is amazing and pretty quick wait time. The atmosphere is really nice, relaxing and a vibe. Can’t really compare the service we got today and I eat sushi out a lot here in Austin. Rachel was our server and she was honestly the best server we’ve had in a really really really long time. Definitely will be asked to be seated at her table next time we come again which will probably be next week to be honest. A+++++

How to reach Umi Sushi Bar & Grill

Why rally at Umi Sushi Bar & Grill with your friends?

Gathering with friends at Umi Sushi Bar & Grill is an experience that combines exceptional food, inviting ambiance, and a social atmosphere perfect for group meetups. With a strong 4.4-star rating from over 2,000 reviews, Umi Sushi Bar & Grill has clearly earned its reputation as a beloved dining destination. The key appeal lies in its fresh, high-quality sushi and diverse Japanese menu, which caters to varied tastes while encouraging sharing and exploration. Friends can bond over artfully presented rolls, sashimi, and hot dishes like udon or teriyaki, making every meal feel like a culinary adventure. The restaurant’s spacious seating and warm setting create an ideal backdrop for lively conversation and celebration. Whether it's a casual catch-up, a birthday, or just a weekend hangout, Umi Sushi Bar & Grill provides the perfect space to relax and enjoy great company with delicious food. Friendly and attentive service further enhances the experience, making guests feel welcomed and well cared for, which is essential when hosting a group gathering.

What activities can you enjoy at Umi Sushi Bar & Grill?

Umi Sushi Bar & Grill offers more than just a meal—it’s a place to engage socially and enjoy interactive dining that suits groups well. First and foremost, indulging in sushi making and tasting is a shared activity every table relishes. The menu includes a wide variety of fresh rolls, sashimi, and specialty dishes, allowing groups to order a broad spread and share bites, fostering a communal dining experience. Many guests enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of the sushi bar itself, where watching chefs prepare sushi in real time adds an element of live entertainment to the evening. Additionally, Umi features a happy hour with excellent drink specials like hot sake, cocktails, and beer, perfect for toasting with friends or unwinding after an eventful day. Some locations may also accommodate private or semi-private spaces that enhance group interactions by offering a cozy, more exclusive environment. This flexibility, combined with quality food and drinks, makes it an ideal venue for birthday parties, celebrations, or casual meetups.

Why is Umi Sushi Bar & Grill perfect for group meetups?

Umi Sushi Bar & Grill excels as a venue for group meetups due to its generous portion sizes and diverse menu that can satisfy multiple preferences simultaneously. Its combination of reasonable prices and rich flavors means groups can indulge without breaking the bank—perfect for longer, relaxed gatherings where everyone can order freely. The setting is designed to be spacious yet intimate, encouraging lively conversations while providing enough room so groups do not feel cramped. Many reviewers praise the attentive service, ensuring everyone’s needs are met promptly, a vital factor when coordinating food and drink orders for multiple people. The restaurant’s ambiance strikes a nice balance between casual and refined, allowing groups to feel comfortable for anything from casual lunches to celebratory dinners. Finally, the sushi bar seating invites smaller groups or pairs to interact with the chefs, while tables or booths accommodate larger parties comfortably, making Umi Sushi Bar & Grill a flexible and enjoyable spot for any kind of social gathering.

What kind of dining experience does Umi Sushi Bar & Grill offer?

Dining at Umi Sushi Bar & Grill is a feast for both the eyes and the palate. The restaurant is noted for its consistency in delivering fresh, vibrant sushi and Japanese cuisine that appeals to both traditional sushi lovers and newcomers. Each dish is thoughtfully plated, enhancing the visual appeal and elevating the dining experience. Beyond sushi, the menu offers a range of items such as savory udon noodles, bento boxes, seafood pancakes, and teriyaki dishes, providing plenty of options and encouraging group members to sample a variety of tastes. The lively and ambient atmosphere encourages diners to linger, enjoy conversation, and savor their meals without feeling rushed. For many, the highlight includes the sushi happy hour, featuring discounted rolls and drinks, inviting guests to experiment with flavors in a relaxed setting. Altogether, dining here is about enjoying quality food in a social, vibrant space that balances sophistication with approachability.

How does the service and atmosphere contribute to a group’s experience?

Service and atmosphere are pivotal reasons Umi Sushi Bar & Grill stands out as a group dining choice. The staff are widely praised for their attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable approach, providing excellent recommendations and making sure dietary preferences or requests are handled smoothly. This attentiveness removes stress from group dining logistics and lets guests focus on enjoying their time together. The atmosphere is both warm and modern, featuring tasteful decor that evokes a welcoming Japanese aesthetic without being over-formal. Music and lighting are carefully balanced to maintain lively yet comfortable energy, encouraging spontaneous interactions and celebration. Busy evenings can get lively and bustling, amplifying the sense of excitement and energy that groups often seek for social outings. Whether sitting at the sushi bar or a large booth, guests feel immersed in a spirited communal vibe that enhances their overall experience.

What makes the menu at Umi Sushi Bar & Grill suitable for diverse groups?

One of the strongest features for group dining at Umi Sushi Bar & Grill is the wide-ranging menu that caters to diverse tastes, dietary needs, and adventurous palates. Sushi aficionados will find a fantastic array of fresh nigiri, sashimi, and creative rolls combining classic and innovative ingredients. Those less enthusiastic about raw fish can select from cooked dishes such as teriyaki chicken or beef, tempura, or hearty udon soups. Vegetarian options and appetizers like seaweed salad or Japanese pancakes further widen choice, ensuring no one in the group feels left out. The generous portion sizes mean dishes can be shared easily, encouraging tasting and conversation. Price points are also thoughtfully balanced, with many dishes offering great value for the quality, which makes it easier to accommodate various budgets within a group. This diversity in menu design creates a dynamic shared dining experience where discovery and preference meet, making each group’s visit unique and memorable.

How does Umi Sushi Bar & Grill support celebrations and special occasions?

Umi Sushi Bar & Grill is expertly suited for celebrations and special occasions with its combination of inviting environment, delectable food, and accommodating service. Celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or casual reunion here feels special due to the restaurant’s flair for presentation and festive vibe. Guests can order signature sushi rolls and sake cocktails that add a touch of elegance and excitement to their table. The staff are willing to assist with arrangements and special requests, making the experience personalized and smooth. Private dining options or larger table settings enable groups to gather with ease while still feeling exclusive. The venue’s energy is naturally conducive to joyous gatherings, enhanced further by the shared joy of great food and drinks. For those wanting to mark a memorable event with friends or family, Umi Sushi Bar & Grill offers a perfect blend of culinary excellence and social ambiance.

What practical considerations make Umi Sushi Bar & Grill great for meetups?

From a practical standpoint, Umi Sushi Bar & Grill handles group logistics effectively, making it easy to plan meetups without hassle. The restaurant is known to be popular, so reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups or weekend evenings, ensuring space and a smooth arrival. The layout includes a variety of seating styles—bar, tables, and booths—accommodating different group sizes and preferences. The menu’s extensive offerings mean dietary restrictions or preferences (including gluten-free and vegetarian choices) can be met without difficulty. Pricing is generally competitive for the quality and portion sizes, which is important for groups balancing budgets. Additionally, the location is typically accessible, often near lively neighborhoods or entertainment districts, making it convenient for guests to combine dining with other activities. All of these factors contribute to a stress-free, enjoyable group dining experience that encourages repeat visits and recommendations.

Why do reviewers consistently rate Umi Sushi Bar & Grill highly?

The steady high ratings and positive reviews reflect Umi Sushi Bar & Grill’s commitment to quality and hospitality. Many reviewers emphasize the freshness and flavor of the sushi and other dishes, signaling strong culinary standards. Others highlight the friendly and efficient service, noting staff’s helpfulness in accommodating special requests or explaining the menu. The restaurant’s clean, stylish interior and vibrant atmosphere frequently appear in reviews as significant positives that enhance guest comfort and enjoyment. Some reviews mention value for money, particularly during happy hour specials, which creates a favorable balance between cost and experience. Together, these elements form a comprehensive guest experience that meets and often exceeds expectations, leading to repeated patronage and enthusiastic recommendations for group dining. This consistent praise from a broad number of customers assures prospective guests of a dependable and pleasurable experience at Umi Sushi Bar & Grill.

Don't just take our word for it. Check out these other websites for more info on the Umi Sushi Bar & Grill

• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g30196-d484138-Reviews-Umi_Sushi_Bar_Grill-Austin_Texas.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g60898-d4481206-Reviews-Umi-Atlanta_Georgia.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g34099-d25467990-Reviews-Umi_Sushi_Seafood_Buffet_Brandon_FL-Brandon_Florida.html