When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Umiya Raleigh
Why Umiya Raleigh is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Umiya Raleigh has rapidly established itself as a premier destination for sushi and hotpot lovers since opening its doors in December 2024. Located conveniently near downtown Raleigh, it offers an extensive all-you-can-eat menu that appeals to both sushi enthusiasts and hotpot aficionados. The restaurant features a modern dining atmosphere supplemented by tablet ordering to enhance convenience and customer interaction. Its fresh sushi dishes stand out with bold flavors crafted from high-quality ingredients, while the hotpot experience is customizable with a variety of broths and a DIY sauce bar that allows guests to personalize their meal. The spacious, date- and party-friendly environment makes Umiya Raleigh an excellent choice for gatherings with friends, whether for casual meals or special occasions. Beyond dining, Umiya Raleigh actively collaborates with local food content creators and social media influencers, making it a vibrant hub for the local foodie community. Its welcoming service, modern interiors, and innovative all-you-can-eat concept create a memorable culinary experience that keeps patrons returning.
Here's what people think of Umiya Raleigh
As of recent, Umiya Raleigh holds a 4.6-star rating based on 797 reviews.
Customer reviews reflect a very positive reception, with Umiya Raleigh achieving a strong rating of 4.6 out of 5 from nearly 800 reviews. Positive feedback frequently highlights the freshness and quality of the sushi, noting the wide variety offered through the all-you-can-eat format. Many reviewers appreciate the custom hotpot options and the convenience of tablet ordering, praising the modern and stylish atmosphere that makes dining enjoyable and interactive. The friendly and attentive staff also receive consistent commendations, contributing to a pleasant overall experience. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional waits due to the first-come, first-served seating arrangement and express that the pricing can be on the higher side compared to other local options. A few patrons have noted that peak times can feel crowded, which may affect the level of personalized service. In conclusion, the extensive positive reviews emphasize Umiya Raleigh’s high-quality food and innovative dining concept, making it a sought-after spot, while the negatives mainly focus on logistics rather than food quality or atmosphere, indicating that with some operational tweaks, the experience could be even better.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Christine Wei
The specialty rolls I ordered were okay. The salmon avocado roll tasted really fresh and delicious, though. The chef’s special salad was refreshing! The tempura Oreos are really something else. Service was good despite all our random additions to our order. I think our waiter did the best he could. It was pretty upscale and well maintained, but that might be due to its newness. Overall positive experience
Jéssica de Souza Moreira
Great experience! The food was delicious — fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. We especially loved the service from Bella — she was warm, attentive, and made our visit even more enjoyable. Highly recommend this place for anyone who loves good sushi and great hospitality!
Taia Jenkins
We stopped by for Mother’s Day dinner and had a decent time overall. The pricing without the “discount” felt a bit steep, but luckily they were offering a limited time deal if you followed them—which made it more reasonable. The food was good! The hotpot broth came out nice and hot, and the sushi was enjoyable. Orders are placed through a tablet, but each one has to be approved by your server before it’s sent through. That part felt a little clunky, but I assume it’s to help reduce food waste. It did give us more time to browse the sauce and cold bar, which was well-stocked and fun to mix and match from. Most dishes came out quickly, though we did have to wait quite a while for our chicken teriyaki. Some items were fresh, while others were clearly frozen—but nothing tasted bad. Overall, it was a solid experience. As much as I love sushi and hotpot, this isn’t a place I see myself frequenting compared to others, but it’s still worth a visit if you’re curious—especially while the promo is still available.
Kay Vee
Hands down thee BEST AYCE Sushi/Hot Pot in Raleigh. The quality is unmatched. We have been back 3 times since we tried it, a month ago. The prices are worth every penny. The service and servers are great. The quality of everything is top tier. I highly recommend this place. I have not tried the hot pot side.
P H
The spot for sushi with an all you can eat experience that is hard to beat. Absolutely everything is super fresh and the servers are all wonderful but I specifically wanna call out Tristan who was delightful and helpful. Here’s some shots from our meal!
How to reach Umiya Raleigh
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Why Umiya Raleigh may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Umiya Raleigh with your friends? Umiya Raleigh offers an exceptional destination for groups seeking an unforgettable dining experience combined with a lively social atmosphere. This is not just a restaurant; it is a vibrant hub where friends and family come together to enjoy the richness of Japanese cuisine in an all-you-can-eat format, encompassing both sushi and hotpot. Its highly praised rating of 4.6 out of 797 reviews attests to a consistently satisfying experience that blends quality, variety, and atmosphere. Meeting your friends at Umiya means indulging in freshly prepared sushi alongside the comforting, interactive delight of hotpot cooking, all within a welcoming setting designed for communal enjoyment. Whether your group craves the artistry of sushi rolls or the warmth of a steaming hotpot, Umiya makes it effortless to please every palate. This shared culinary adventure not only satiates hunger but also strengthens bonds, making it perfect for meaningful conversations and celebrations. The restaurant’s spacious seating and accommodating service further enhance the group dynamic, ensuring your gathering flows smoothly from start to finish. With a contemporary yet comfortable ambiance, Umiya Raleigh stands out as a premier spot for those looking to combine great food with genuine togetherness.
What activities can you enjoy at Umiya Raleigh, and why is it ideal for group meetups? The primary activity at Umiya revolves around the all-you-can-eat experience that combines two beloved Japanese food traditions: sushi and hotpot. Guests have the choice to savor unlimited sushi, featuring a wide array of fresh fish, classic rolls, and creative combinations that showcase quality and variety. Alternatively, or additionally, diners can dive into the hotpot experience, where communal pots of broth simmer at your table, and guests cook their own selection of fresh meats, vegetables, and noodles. This interactive meal style fosters a collaborative and engaging atmosphere, perfect for groups who enjoy dining at a relaxed and social pace. Beyond dining, Umiya’s modern, spacious design offers a comfortable environment for lively conversation, laughter, and catching up, distinct from quieter or more formal dining venues. Group seating arrangements help large parties sit together easily, supported by attentive staff who are experienced in managing group needs and ensuring speedy service to keep all courses flowing smoothly. The combination of delicious food options, a warm guest experience, and space to socialize effectively makes Umiya Raleigh a top choice for meetups with friends or family.
How does the sushi and hotpot menu at Umiya Raleigh enhance the group dining experience? Umiya Raleigh’s menu is thoughtfully curated to maximize enjoyment while offering flexibility for diverse tastes within a group. The all-you-can-eat sushi menu is extensive, featuring everything from traditional nigiri and sashimi to inventive specialty rolls filled with unique ingredients. This breadth of choice accommodates sushi novices and aficionados alike, making it fun for friends to explore new flavors while also having reliable favorites on hand. The fresh ingredients and skillful preparation ensure each dish delights the palate and presentation. The hotpot, meanwhile, provides a hands-on, shared dining experience where groups can customize broth flavors, add preferred proteins like thin slices of beef or seafood, and toss in a colorful mix of vegetables and noodles. Cooking together at the table is an experience that naturally encourages interaction and bonding, as everyone participates in creating their meal. This dual option—sushi and hotpot—gives groups a chance to mix things up according to preference or mood, ensuring everyone feels included regardless of culinary inclinations. The menu’s versatility coupled with generous portion sizes supports longer, leisurely meetups where taste and companionship come first.
Why does Umiya Raleigh’s atmosphere and service make it a perfect place for gatherings? Atmosphere plays a pivotal role in group dining success, and Umiya Raleigh delivers a modern yet inviting setting that complements its food offerings. The interior boasts clean, stylish décor with comfortable seating arrangements that accommodate groups large and small while still maintaining a sense of intimacy. Bright lighting and tasteful design elements create an energized but relaxed vibe, encouraging guests to unwind without feeling rushed. Umiya operates on a first-come, first-served basis but also welcomes large group reservations, making planning easier for occasions like birthdays, reunions, or casual get-togethers. The staff is known for being attentive and accommodating, efficiently handling the needs of bustling groups without sacrificing friendliness or personal attention. This includes prompt order taking, helpful explanations of menu options, and supportive hotpot assistance when needed. The balance of efficiency and warmth in service ensures groups can focus on their company without distractions. All these factors contribute to an environment where guests feel welcome, comfortable, and eager to stay and enjoy their time together.
What are the price points and value features at Umiya Raleigh that benefit groups? For those seeking an affordable yet high-quality dining outing, Umiya Raleigh’s all-you-can-eat pricing structure stands out as excellent value, especially for groups. Lunch options start at about $19 per person for unlimited sushi or hotpot, offering an economical way to taste a broad range of dishes. For diners wanting the best of both worlds, a combined sushi-and-hotpot option is available for a slightly higher price, allowing for generous sampling without the stress of choosing one over the other. Dinner prices are higher, around $30.95 per person, reflecting the extended hours and potentially larger appetites during evening gatherings. This pricing model ensures that groups can enjoy a no-limit feast without worrying about individual plate costs or tipping point decisions. Sharing food in this style promotes a relaxed and convivial atmosphere without breaking the bank. Given the quality of ingredients, attentive service, and ample portions, Umiya offers a compelling balance of luxury and affordability that makes group meetups accessible and special.
How can Umiya Raleigh accommodate different group sizes and special occasions? Umiya Raleigh is well-equipped to handle meetups of varying sizes, from small family dinners to large friend reunions. The restaurant’s spacious layout and flexible seating arrangements allow for comfortable accommodation of different group sizes without compromising the experience. While the establishment primarily operates on a first-come, first-served seating policy, it also offers the option to make reservations for large groups, which is an important feature when planning special events or celebrations. This ensures that party coordination is smooth, and logistical concerns are minimized. Furthermore, the diverse menu options appeal to a broad audience, making it easy to cater to mixed groups with differing dietary preferences or restrictions. Whether the occasion calls for a casual lunch, an after-work gathering, or a festive occasion, Umiya’s combination of space, variety, and service makes it an adaptable venue that can elevate any group event with memorable food and shared enjoyment.
What makes Umiya Raleigh stand out among other sushi and hotpot places in Raleigh? Umiya Raleigh distinguishes itself through its unique offering as the largest all-you-can-eat sushi chain in the United States, now brought to Raleigh’s vibrant food scene. The dual focus on both sushi and hotpot all-you-can-eat options in one location is rare and provides an unrivaled breadth of experience for diners. While many restaurants specialize in either sushi or hotpot, Umiya brings both under one roof, giving customers flexibility and variety beyond typical dining choices. The fresh, high-quality ingredients combined with the interactive hotpot process create an immersive culinary outing rather than a simple meal. Its consistently positive reviews reflect not only food quality but also the polished and attentive service, plus a clean, modern environment. This combination makes Umiya Raleigh a top-tier destination for group meetups looking for more than just good food—it’s a complete social dining experience that encourages connection over cuisine.
Why should families and friend groups consider Umiya Raleigh for their next gathering? For families and groups of friends, Umiya offers an all-encompassing dining experience that balances fun, flavor, and convenience. Children and adults alike can find something to enjoy with the variety of sushi rolls and hotpot ingredients, making it easy to please all ages. The hands-on nature of hotpot cooking is engaging and can even become a shared activity that bonds family members together during the meal. The restaurant’s spacious, well-lit interior provides a comfortable space for children without the pressure of a formal setting, while the affordable pricing allows families to indulge without overspending. Friend groups benefit from the relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, which supports casual conversation and mingling over a communal table. This friendly environment fosters an inclusive vibe that makes every guest feel welcome. Umiya Raleigh’s thoughtful combination of excellent food, accommodating service, and social ambiance ensures that group gatherings are memorable, enjoyable, and worthwhile.
In summary, Umiya Raleigh is a premier destination for groups who want to experience a dynamic mix of ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT sushi and hotpot in a welcoming, stylish setting. Its combination of fresh ingredients, interactive dining, accommodating service, and reasonably priced menu options creates an ideal environment to connect with friends and family. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual meetup, Umiya Raleigh delivers a comprehensive experience that satisfies the senses and strengthens bonds — making it a top choice for social dining in Raleigh.