by senior contributor Brendan Kownacki
It was 1997 in the Soho area of England when the conveyors started spinning and Yo! Sushi was born.
Now, 15 years later, after expanding around the globe into Saudi Arabia, Dubai, Ireland and several other locations, the British based chain has hit the U.S. landing in Washington D.C.’s Union Station.
“After its inception, the signature sushi spot struck a deal to enter Harvey Nichols stores, providing a place for ladies to lunch,” said Werner Coetzee, Global Franchising Operations Manager for the chain.
Now, with the US finally joining the expansion map, Coetzee notes that such an “iconic building” as Union Station is a perfect resting spot, bringing food to weary travelers and the folks-on-the-go across the District.
The restaurant draws its signature experience from the fish filled carousel that sits centrally in the restaurant and gives diners the chance to pick anything they want as it passes by. Menu items are divided by type and price, signaled by using colored bowls which are easy to spot as they spin ’round the restaurant.
“It’s a theater,” added Coetzee of the dining experience, noting that in the center of the restaurant anyone can watch as fresh fish and ingredients are prepared to create exquisite Japanese fare. “It’s an experience rather than just standing in line.”
It’s “good food in a fast way, not just grab and go” — given that the culinary teams travel to Japan each year to research new menu items and techniques. This same drive will lead to another U.S. location in DC’s Chinatown in the first quarter of 2013.
“We never build the same restaurant twice,” Coetzee added, noting that unique layouts, design and decor are key to each location.
Try out Yo! Sushi starting on July 25th.
