Sushi lovers in Washington, D.C. have a new destination to explore as Sushi Gaku has officially opened its doors in the historic Georgetown neighborhood.
The restaurant occupies the former space of cocktail lounge Donahue, located at 1338 Wisconsin Avenue NW.
This new venture is spearheaded by chef Yoshi Ota, who hopes to impress diners with his take on sushi and other Japanese fare.
Ota is not new to the D.C. restaurant scene; he previously operated Sushi Gakyu, which was a favorite spot for locals until its closure this year.
Sushi Gaku now stands blocks away from the bustling M Street, situated in a comparatively quieter section of Wisconsin Avenue NW.
“I am so honored to join this historical area in Washington,” chef Ota expressed in a statement.
He aims to serve traditional sushi alongside unique offerings that he believes will surprise his guests.
Having originated from Hokkaido, Japan, Ota began his culinary journey at ANA International Tokyo restaurant in Tokyo.
With four decades of experience, he has honed his knife skills not only in Japan but also in the U.S., notably at the renowned Sushi Den in New York.
Ota holds a rare preparation license for fugu, or pufferfish, a delicacy known for its toxicity when improperly prepared.
Sushi Gaku features a modest yet elegantly designed interior, reflecting a blend of modern sophistication and traditional Japanese aesthetics.
Decor elements include delicate orchid plants on polished wooden counters and minimalist wall panels with ink-brushed calligraphy, which contribute to a serene atmosphere.
The use of bamboo and stone plateware adds texture, all under soft, tailored lighting that enhances the intimate dining experience.
The menu offers a variety of familiar dishes alongside potentially new flavors for guests to enjoy.
A standout item is the traditional nigiri sushi, prepared in the edo style using akazu (dark vinegar), sushi rice, and a selection of fish.
In addition to traditional nigiri with white sushi rice, diners can also indulge in maki rolls and other casual Japanese plates.
For sushi enthusiasts, sashimi is served in generous portions, either as a platter of at least ten pieces or as smaller servings of four.
Selections include mackerel, tuna, squid, scallop, and fatty tuna, with similar options available for nigiri as well.
Starters include edamame, green salad, seaweed salad, and spring rolls, catering to a range of tastes.
The cooked protein offerings are diverse, featuring grilled eel, shrimp tempura, fried oysters, grilled black cod, and hamachi kama.
Diners can also anticipate an omakase course set to debut in around two months, promising a unique experience with a focus on fermented ancient-style sushi.
This reservation-only tasting menu will start at $180 per person and will include four appetizers, 12 pieces of premium nigiri, and dessert.
Complementing the culinary offerings is an extensive beverage program, including four signature cocktails.
Notable drinks include the Royal Fizz, a delightful concoction of rum, lime juice, umeshu, saline, and prosecco, along with the refreshing Gaku Breeze, featuring tequila, almond liqueur, lime juice, cucumber syrup, and mint.
Sushi Gaku also serves sake by the carafe and bottle, along with an array of wines and Sapporo beers for those who prefer simpler options.
As the D.C. dining scene continues to grow, Sushi Gaku aims to carve out its place among the city’s diverse sushi offerings, catering to both traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike.
image source from：https://dc.eater.com/2025/5/23/24434920/inside-sushi-gaku-georgetown-new-dc-restaurant-openings
