Uni Japanese Cuisine, located at the corner of 19th and Pine, may seem like a quaint takeout spot at first glance. A poster board taped to the window displays their hours, while traditional Japanese shop banners and neon signs adorn the exterior. Inside, the walls are decorated with manga pages, giving the space a playful feel.
The staff is warm and welcoming, with both servers and chefs greeting you with a smile. You’re free to sit wherever you like, with numerous cozy booths to choose from. Once seated, you’ll find an extensive menu packed with delightful options, including bento boxes, sushi rolls, hibachi, and more.
Longtime friends Brian Wang and Roby Ming founded Uni in June 2024. Both chefs honed their craft in restaurants across the country, building their careers with a shared passion for food and hospitality. This passion ultimately inspired them to open their own restaurant.
Brian’s daughter, Brooklyn Phang, shared with me, “We hope everyone will give us a chance. We are always changing our menu based on feedback and hope to one day be a favorite Japanese spot for locals.”
You won’t want to miss their all-you-can-eat sushi deal for just $19.99, available Tuesday through Sunday between 2:00 and 3:45 PM. Uni’s menu features 27 rolls, offering a delectable mix of sushi classics. My personal favorites include the shrimp tempura roll, drizzled with rich eel sauce, and the spicy crab and tuna rolls that deliver a delightful kick.
For vegetarian sushi lovers, there are refreshing options like the sweet mango avocado roll and the avocado cucumber roll. Uni’s quirky and upbeat charm makes it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy great conversation over these tasty rolls.
Can’t make it to all-you-can-eat sushi? Uni offers a daily lunch special from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, featuring delicious yet affordable options. Enjoy a two-roll sushi combo for $11.00, or opt for a savory hibachi or katsu, each with your choice of protein and paired with white or fried rice and miso soup. Choose from chicken, steak, or shrimp for hibachi, and chicken or pork for katsu.
For a heartier option, try the Bento Box. For just $13.00, you’ll get your choice of hibachi, tempura, or katsu along with fried gyoza, a California roll, your choice of rice, miso soup, and a drink. Whether you’re on the go or enjoying a sit-down meal, Uni’s yummy and reasonably priced selections are sure to leave you satisfied.
The extensive menu offers something for everyone, whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of ramen or something new like a spicy crab taco. Brooklyn’s favorite is the salmon lava bomb, a sushi rice ball wrapped in salmon that is torched to perfection and drizzled with spicy mayo. She recommends enjoying it in one delectable bite.
Open until 2:00 AM Monday through Saturday and until 1:00 AM on Sundays, Uni is an easy go-to for a night owl. Order online after 9:30 PM and get 10% off your order.
This hidden gem has built a community of followers thanks to its great deals, friendly staff, and delicious dishes made with fresh ingredients. Add Uni Japanese to your list of must-try spots, and you’ll be coming back for more.
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