First things first: The “YA” in newly opened YA!! Sushi isn’t an acronym. It really stands for “Yeah!” according to business owner/chef Atsushi Kumagai, who says its name was inspired by the phrase often used by locals.
The name has a double meaning, though, as Kumagai says his father’s name is Yasushi.
The new restaurant is located on the first floor of Luana Waikīkī. Unlike the chef’s omakase-centric restaurant, @sushi, this one is a more casual concept that features nigiri, sushi rolls and chirashi bowls that can be ordered a la carte. Kumagai says he wanted this new restaurant’s concept to be more casual and cater to both Waikīkī residents and tourists in the area.
The eatery’s space is cozy — the counter seats around eight people, and there are a few smaller tables as well. If you’re making a reservation, ask for a counter seat so you can watch the sushi chefs in action.
If you’re craving straight-up sushi, go for one of the eatery’s signature sets. The YA!! Sushi shaka set ($47) includes 10 pieces of nigiri and a California roll.
Our set included maguro, red snapper, salmon, albacore, shrimp, yellowtail, cured mackerel, scallop, toro and egg omelet. While I enjoyed how fresh each piece tasted, I was also a fan of the fish-to-rice ratio. YA!! Sushi doesn’t skimp on the portion size.
The chirashi bowl is a good option if you want sashimi. It features a colorful assortment of tuna, yellowtail, salmon, scallop, egg omelet and toro.
The Leahi roll ($25) comprises spicy tuna with wasabi pickles, tobiko, cucumber, avocado and sesame seeds. Each piece features a thin layer of rice, which allows the filling to shine. The spicy tuna’s creaminess contrasts nicely with the cucumbers’ crunch. This dish packs some heat, though, thanks to the wasabi.
The eatery’s miso marinated butterfish ($21) is a good option if you want a cooked dish. The butterfish is moist and flaky with a definite miso flavor. If you want this dish, be sure to order it immediately, since it takes a little longer to cook.
YA!! Sushi is currently BYOB. There’s complimentary valet parking at Luana Waikīkī for customers who dine at the restaurant.
Located at Waterfront Plaza, @sushi is temporarily closed until May. It will reopen next month on Fridays and Saturdays, Kumagai says.
CONTACT
YA!! Sushi
Luana Waikīkī
2045 Kalākaua Ave., Honolulu
808-200-4909
Instagram: @yasushibv
Open 5-9:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays
Kelli Shiroma Braiotta can be reached at kelli@alohastatedaily.com.
