Speakeasies were the talk of the town in 2023, and it appears omakase restaurants will be the theme for 2024.
Endo, a new omakase restaurant with an emphasis on traditional techniques, is bringing innovative fine dining to Central Austin beginning March 6.
Just as the word omakase translates to, "I leave it up to you," Endo will offer personalized experiences for patrons using fresh and new ingredients daily. The 10-seat sushi bar will use longstanding traditional Japanese sushi-making techniques, such as dry aging, "meticulous" salt curing (according to a release), smoking, and soy sauce marinating (also known as zuke).
The new concept emphasizes these techniques as representations of the tried-and-true art of sushi making since Japan's Edo period. Occurring between 1603 and 1868, it's one that's often romanticized for its isolationist policies that heightened Japan's unique cultural identity.
Photo by Jessica Attie
The venture is led by Taiki Wakayama and Darrell Oribello, who both have extensive experience in Austin's dining scene. Chef Endo Yasuhiro, a former apprentice under acclaimed chef Daisuke Nakazawa, is in charge of Endo's kitchen operations. Nakawaza will be a "creative contributor" at Endo, a release says.
"We are ready to open our doors and introduce our take on the incredible art of Japanese omakase dining to the Austin dining scene," said Chef Endo in a statement. "Our goal is to provide guests with an unforgettable culinary journey that pays homage to the rich traditions of Japanese cuisine with a dedication to precision, world class quality and simplicity. We look forward to welcoming diners to our restaurant and sharing our passion for world class sushi and hospitality."
Endo's beverage menu will span from signature cocktails to hand-picked rare Japanese whiskies, as well as sake, beer, and wine. Each unique cocktail is developed to complement each sushi dish, and diners will also have the option to add wine, sake, or Japanese whisky pairings to a 20-course omakase.
Endo is located at 609 W. 29th St., and after its grand opening, operating hours will be Tuesday through Sunday from 5:30-10 pm. Reservations are required and can be booked starting March 6 via OpenTable.
