Sushi Kuwahata in Ohio City To Close, Follows Kyuu-Juu’s Closing In December

The eight-seat omakase counter opened last summer to rave reviews and months-long waitlists, but ownership says the restaurant will shutter at the end of February.

by Douglas Trattner | Feb. 12, 2026 | 4:59 AM

Photographed by Douglas Trattner

After the unexpected closure of Kyuu-juu in December, which by all outward appearances was wowing diners with its contemporary izakaya fare, now comes the other shoe. Management has announced that the Sushi Kuwahata, the exclusive eight-seat omakase-style sushi den, will follow suit after service on Feb. 28.

Since opening in June, the Michelin-caliber sushi counter has also been drawing raves for its dazzling multi-course experiences that get booked months in advance. In speaking with partners Ryan Endrian and Chef Kwan regarding the closure of Kyuu-juu, they blamed the sudden closure on investors unwilling to provide a longer runway for success.

With respect to Sushi Kuwahata, they state, “After much thought, we want to share that our last day of service will be February 28. Thank you all so much for the love, support, and memories you’ve shared with us. It’s truly been an incredible journey.”

There are still a few reservations available before the restaurant closes, so if you’d like to sample some world-class sushi, act fast.

As for any possible revivals down the road, they say only, “We’ll see.”

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Douglas Trattner

For 25 years, Douglas Trattner has worked as a full-time freelance writer, editor and author. His work as co-author on Michael Symon's cookbooks have earned him four New York Times Best-Selling Author honors, while his longstanding role as Scene dining editor has garnered awards of its own.