Hai Hospitality — the award-winning restaurant group behind Uchi and Uchiko — is bringing its Japanese cocktail bar and restaurant concept, Uchibā, to the Plaza Midwood neighborhood in Charlotte, N.C.
Slated to open in early 2026, Uchibā will occupy a 2,200-square-foot space above its sibling restaurant Uchi in the Commonwealth development and will offer a unique bar-like experience inspired by traditional Japanese izakayas.
“With two Uchibā’s already thriving in Dallas and Austin, I am eager to watch this concept become a staple for guests in the Queen City who are looking to enjoy the same stellar expertise and service found at any of our restaurants, but in a more approachable environment like our stunning, spacious rooftop or right in front of the action at the bar,” Tony Montero, CEO of Hai Hospitality, said in a statement.
Uchibā, which loosely translates to “Uchi Bar,” will feature a 24-seat bar with lounge seating, a 38-seat dining room, and a 1,500-square-foot rooftop space with seating for 60. In the bar area, guests can enjoy craft cocktails, Japanese whisky, and a menu of small plates, including baos, buns, and shareable bites that have been curated to complement the liquor program.
Chef Shaun King, who previously led the kitchen at Uchiko Houston, will serve as chef de cuisine for both Uchi and Uchibā in Charlotte. King aims to create an immersive dining experience at both and is inspired by his expertise in blending fire and smoke, as well as fresh Japanese flavors.
“It has been a monumental year for Charlotte’s food scene, from Top Chef to becoming a Michelin star city,” King said in a statement. “I am so energized by the talent and community here, and I can’t wait to become a part of Charlotte’s culinary identity.”
Uchibā first opened in Dallas in 2018, followed by a second location in Austin in 2023. The new Charlotte location has been designed by the Hai Design Studio, Hai Hospitality’s in-house design team, in collaboration with local interior designer Mother Studio.
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