Fresher Than Fresh

From sushi to sake: The art of Japanese cuisine awaits at Azumi in River Oaks

Located in Houston’s River Oaks District, Azumi offers an exquisite fusion of traditional and contemporary Japanese cuisine. Renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship and vibrant atmosphere, this dining destination is perfect for intimate dinners, group gatherings, festive holiday get-togethers, or special celebrations.

A culinary showcase
Azumi’s sushi program is a true highlight, featuring the freshest seafood flown in daily from Tokyo and beyond. Under the guidance of chef Timur Fazilov and his talented team, guests can enjoy expertly prepared nigiri, maki rolls, crudos, and hand rolls that reflect a mastery of flavor and technique.

The hot kitchen menu complements the sushi offerings with bold and innovative meat and seafood dishes, including guest favorites like fried rice and Yakisoba noodles.

Azumi Houston Photo courtesy of Azumi

Photo courtesy of Azumi

Azumi’s sushi program is a true highlight.

The restaurant’s dedication to quality extends to its beverage program, which boasts a curated sake list, a diverse wine selection, and signature craft cocktails, like the must-try lychee martini.

Lunch and happy hour highlights
For a midday treat, Azumi’s famous bento box offers a sampler of the restaurant’s best, including miso soup, wakame salad, fried rice, and a selection of sushi. It’s the perfect way to experience Azumi’s culinary variety in a single meal.

Azumi Houston Azumi’s famous bento box offers a sampler of the restaurant’s best. Photo courtesy of Azumi

Happy hour enthusiasts will love the offerings available daily from 3-6 pm at the bar and outdoor patio. Highlights include $10 lychee martinis, $8 spirits, $2 oysters, and $9 sushi rolls — a delectable lineup that ensures there’s something for everyone.

An unparalleled atmosphere
Azumi’s sleek and stylish interior sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. Whether relaxing at the full bar or enjoying the inviting outdoor patio, the ambience is as exceptional as the food. The vibrant energy and attention to detail make Azumi a top choice for both casual evenings and elegant occasions.

Azumi Houston Photo courtesy of Azumi

Elevate your next night out
From the freshest seafood and premium Wagyu beef to expertly mixed cocktails, Azumi promises an extraordinary dining experience. Whether you're indulging in its innovative menu, exploring the extensive sake list, or enjoying the lively atmosphere, Azumi redefines what it means to dine out in style.

Reserve your table today and discover why Azumi is Houston’s go-to destination for modern Japanese cuisine.

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Coastal-inspired Houston restaurant will shutter after 3 years in Montrose

Photo by Kirsten Gilliam

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A Montrose restaurant devoted to fresh and healthy fare will soon serve its final meal. Graffiti Raw will close on December 31.

Located next to Uchi in the Montrose Collective mixed-use development, Graffiti Raw opened in early 2023. It is part of the Big Vibe Group, the hospitality company behind Coppa Osteria in Rice Village and Flora, the stylish Mexican restaurant in Buffalo Bayou Park.

Graffiti Raw took inspiration from coastal destinations such as Big Sur, Mexico, and the Mediterranean. True to its name, the menu included raw items such as tartare and ceviche alongside classic fare such as steak frites, chicken schnitzel, and crab fried rice.

“Since opening, Graffiti Raw has been a place for connection — from shared meals to vibrant

nights that reflected the creative energy of Houston. The Big Vibe Group is grateful to the

guests, team members, partners and the Montrose Collective community who helped shape the experience,” the company said in a statement.

Big Vibe emphasizes that both Coppa Osteria and Flora “remain central to the company’s long-term vision, with an emphasis on growth, consistency, and elevated hospitality.” It made a similar commitment to those concepts when it closed Gratify, a neighborhood bistro in Rice Village, back in 2024.

Montrose has seen a number of openings and closings, with additions such as jazz supperclub Doc’s and wine shop/bar Montrose Grocer. Paulie’s, a neighborhood staple for more than 25 years, will also close on December 31.

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