Florida-based sushi chain OMAKAI is moving into Chicago with two restaurants, its first expansion outside the state, according to Yahoo Finance. The company said the new locations will open in Fulton Market and River North before the end of the year, bringing its accessible omakase approach to a new market.
One restaurant will open at 951 W. Fulton Market and seat 66 guests on the first floor, with a basement bar, Yahoo Finance confirmed. The second will be a hand roll bar at 507 N. Wells St. in River North with room for 30 guests.
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Growth beyond Florida
Both Chicago spots will serve lunch, happy hour and dinner. OMAKAI also noted its signature Homeakase sushi boxes will be available for takeout and delivery through UberEats, Yahoo Finance reported.
“Expanding beyond Florida for the first time is a defining moment for everyone who has been part of the OMAKAI journey,” said Diego Quijada, co-founder and CEO of OMAKAI, in a company press release. He called Chicago a city “that truly celebrates great food.”
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OMAKAI was founded in 2019 by brothers Diego and Pedro Quijada, along with friend Nicolas Sayavedra and chef Aaron Pate, according to the press release. The company has grown across South Florida since opening in Wynwood, with locations in Coconut Grove, Doral, Aventura and Downtown, and Brickell to follow.
In addition to Chicago, OMAKAI said it has signed its first lease in Orlando and plans more growth in Miami’s Brickell neighborhood. The company said exact opening dates, hours and reservation details will be announced in the coming weeks.
Dining and Cooking