Eiji Ichimura's Sushi Ichimura To Close In August 2025

In 2023, Eiji Ichimura opened the doors to his namesake restaurant, Sushi Ichimura, located at 412 Greenwich Street in the heart of Tribeca. This 10-seat establishment quickly garnered attention for its exclusive and high-end sushi experience, drawing food lovers from near and far. However, in a bittersweet turn of events, it was announced that the restaurant is slated to close permanently in mid-August 2025, marking the end of an era for the esteemed sushi chef, Ichimura.

Rahul Saito and Howard Chang, the owners of Kuma Hospitality Group, made the announcement to give Ichimura a proper sendoff, allowing guests ample time to visit the restaurant and experience the culinary art that Ichimura has honed over five decades. "We want to be sure guests will have plenty of time to visit before he fully retires," Saito expressed in a statement about the closure.

However, the announcement faced immediate confusion as Ichimura himself took to Instagram to deny the retirement rumor. "I will not retire. Who told you that? Because I am a senior?" he remarked, hinting at the uncertainties surrounding his future.

The 71-year-old Ichimura has been a pivotal figure in the sushi scene, spending the last 40 years in New York after starting his illustrious career in Japan. Ian Hu, a longtime fan of his work, mentioned how Ichimura has not only revolutionized sushi dining but educated New Yorkers on the traditional edo-mae style, which he mastered in Tokyo.

Ichimura’s culinary journey includes noteworthy experiences that shaped his reputation. He previously operated a hidden gem on Second Avenue in Midtown until its closure in 2008 and later teamed up with David Bouley at the acclaimed Brushstroke from 2012 to 2016. Following that, he opened the eponymous Ichimura with co-owner Idan Elkon, but that venture ended abruptly within a year, culminating in a lawsuit. Eventually, he joined Ichimura at Uchū, a prestigious two-Michelin-starred venue.

Throughout his career, Ichimura has also played a significant role in the American appreciation for aging fish, which enriches the flavor profile and freshness of sushi—a practice not commonly embraced Stateside until now. "Ichimura was on the front line, whether intentionally or unintentionally, for ushering in a certain style," Saito noted, drawing a parallel between Ichimura and other sushi luminaries like Masayoshi Takayama of Masa and Nobu Matsuhisa.

As Sushi Ichimura prepares for its final months of operation, the restaurant will continue to serve an array of exquisite dishes. Diners can expect a meticulous omakase menu, highlighting seasonal fish sourced from Hokkaido and other regions in Japan, complemented by select items from the Toyosu Market, known for its unparalleled quality. The luxurious approximately 20-course experience, priced at $950 for two before tip, begins with seasonal appetizers, followed by a selection of over 12 courses of aged nigiri sushi and temaki, and concludes with seasonal desserts served with tea.

The ambiance of the restaurant mirrors the quality of the food, with servings presented on rare antique Japanese lacquerware, 200-year-old ceramic plates, and handmade tableware from esteemed ceramicist Shiro Tsujimura.

Even as Ichimura plans for the future—allowing for family visits in Japan post-retirement—the hospitality group is already laying plans for a new restaurant in the Ichimura space. Chang announced that while Sushi Ichimura closes its doors, a new venture will rise in its place.

In the last few years, the sushi landscape in New York has become increasingly competitive, with high-end omakase spots like Sushi Noz, Sushi Sho, Shion 69 Leonard, and Sushi Nakazawa emerging. Prices at these culinary temples have surged, reflecting both the demand for exclusive dining experiences and the artistry involved in sushi making. Ichimura’s departure from the scene is sure to leave a significant mark, as he has been a cornerstone of the high-end sushi movement in the city.

As 2025 unfolds, New Yorkers will surely reflect on the countless meals enjoyed at Sushi Ichimura and the contributions Ichimura himself has made to elevate sushi dining in the U.S.