Authentic Japanese Omakase At Hayakawa in Atlanta
If you haven’t tried Japanese sushi yet, you’re missing out! I recommend the Omakase experience for the best introduction. If you are in Atlanta, I suggest making reservations at Hayakawa with Chef Haya San. Expect to enjoy the freshest fish of your life and an unforgettable omakase dining experience at this one-star Michelin Star restaurant.
What is omakase?
Omakase is a traditional Japanese dining experience where the chef personally selects and prepares a series of dishes for the guests. The dishes are served one by one as they are prepared, typically in front of the guests seated at a bar-like area that accommodates around 8 or more seats. The chef is responsible for creating and serving all of the dishes while simultaneously entertaining his guests.
Hayakawa
Chef Haya San founded Hayakawa 15 years ago, with its first location in Doraville off Buford Highway. Recently, the restaurant rebranded and changed its name to “Hayakawa”. Along with this change, it relocated to West Midtown inside the Star Provisions building. We were fortunate enough to visit Hayakawa’s old and new locations. In October of 2023, the Michelin Guide expanded into the city of Atlanta and awarded a well-deserved star to Hayakawa.
The restaurant is designed to be simple, minimal, and inviting. The bar features a sleek live edge counter with comfortable black chairs, and the black background wall is adorned with clean white lines. Wooden cabinets on the wall and a wood ceiling create an earthy and clean ambiance.
Experience
As previously mentioned, Hayakawa is situated within the Star Provisions building. The parking situation can be a bit confusing, as there are various parking spots and all lead to the same area. If you park in the underground lot, head upstairs and take a right. The hallway will lead you to Hayakawa, which is marked by a conspicuous large white door on the left. If you arrive early, there is a spacious and comfortable seating area available. Do keep in mind that your parking will be validated at the restaurant.
The Sushi
Upon arrival, we were presented with a pre-determined menu. The layout of the menu was unique – it began from the left and continued to the right. This took me aback but in a positive way.
cuttlefish clear soup
scallop
botan shrimp
bluefin tuna
welk with spicy miso sauce
Nigiri
red sea brim
shark skin flounder
yellowtail
tuna
sea urchin
salmon caviar
grilled miso cod
spicy pollock roe over rice with dash broth and green tea
green tea ice cream enclosed in wafer shell
Final Thoughts
Above all, I had a great omakase experience at Hayakawa. The sushi tasted incredibly fresh and delicious and the service was remarkable. The staff was attentive and friendly, making it a distinct and delightful dining experience. I highly recommend this Michelin-star restaurant to anyone looking for a satisfying sushi meal.
Have you tried Omakase or dined at Hayakaw? Let me know in the comments below.
Read more about my Michelin dining experiences here.
