Craving authentic Asian cuisine with a Southern approach? Located close to historic Main Street and the Reedy River, and led by executive chef Jose Aguilar alongside renowned chef Masatomo ‘Masa’ Hamaya, O-Ku Greenville is where you need to be.
The second opening in the South Carolina city for The Indigo Road Hospitality Group, O-Ku serves a selection of nigiri, sashimi, shareable small plates, chef specialties, specialty sushi rolls and large format entrees from a space inspired by traditional Japanese aesthetics.
Designed by Charleston-based architect David Thompson, the restaurant is anchored by a large neon sign of the Japanese phrase ‘omotenashi’ a saying that means ‘to wholeheartedly look after guests,’ and one that couldn’t better reflect the team’s approach to hospitality.
Diners will notice shou sugi ban or ‘charred wood’ walls, high ceilings adorned with Manzanita branches, and other wood accents throughout; the focus on this natural material is a nod to the name O-Ku, which translates to oak in Japanese. Continuing the theme, the restaurant is also embellished with intricate tilework that resembles the rings within a tree trunk, as well as wooden pendant lights above the bar that help to roundoff a dynamic interior layout.
To complement the food offering, the beverage program is made up of extensive Japanese whiskey and sake lists, craft cocktails, imported and local beers, and wine; which, much like the cuisine, is light, fresh, and tasty.
So, if you’re looking for an authentic Asian culinary experience with a Southern twist in a beautifully designed space, O-Ku Greenville is the perfect destination for discerning diners in this corner of South Carolina.
O-Ku Greenville Photography, Savannah Bockus.
