Philadelphia’s high-end dining scene is officially on notice. Uchi, the celebrated, non-traditional Japanese restaurant that originated in Austin, Texas, has confirmed its long-awaited Philadelphia debut, and it is planting its flag in the heart of Rittenhouse.
The new restaurant will be located at 1620 Sansom Street, taking up a prime ground-floor space in the new Josephine residential tower.
From James Beard Award-winning chef and founder Tyson Cole, Uchi is not a traditional sushi bar. The restaurant, part of the acclaimed Hai Hospitality group, has built a national reputation by balancing "hot" and "cool" dishes, blending expertly sourced fish with creative, global ingredients. "Uchi," which means "house" in Japanese, first opened in a renovated bungalow in Austin and has since expanded to critical acclaim in cities like Miami, Dallas, and Los Angeles.
Diners can expect signature items that have made Uchi a destination for foodies, including:
- Machi Cure: A composed bite of smoked yellowtail, yuca crisp, and Marcona almond.
- Kinoko Nabe: A savory mushroom hot pot that is cooked tableside.
- Creative Omakase: A "chef's tasting" menu that showcases both seasonal ingredients and the kitchen's innovative daily specials.
The choice of 1620 Sansom Street is significant. Uchi is placing itself directly in the epicenter of Philadelphia's most competitive culinary neighborhood. Just steps from Rittenhouse Square, the new location signals a confident entry into a market already packed with the city's top dining destinations.
The Philadelphia opening, which has been in the works for several years, is now poised to be one of the most anticipated culinary events of the coming year.