Kaizume, a new sushi and seafood spot from the Awaji team, quietly opened this week in Oklahoma City's Uptown District, sliding into the former Syrup space on NW 23rd. The kitchen is turning out a mix of raw bar selections, signature rolls and shareable mains, while early guests describe a yacht-inspired interior with warm wood, soft lighting and attentive service.
What's on the menu
Kaizume’s menu runs from classic nigiri and sashimi to signature rolls and larger plates, with a few eye-catching headliners. There is a sake-marinated seabass and a chicken katsu piccata, plus bar-friendly dishes such as wagyu on the rock and a rich crab bisque. Desserts lean playful, including apple pie spring rolls finished with sea-salt caramel and a crème brûlée cheesecake. The full menu is listed on ToastTab.
The team and the concept
Chef Richard Ly, the chef behind Awaji Izakaya, is serving as executive chef for Kaizume and positions the project as a more refined, seafood-forward companion to his izakaya work. Ly told EatingOKC that Kaizume would be “Japanese with a twist,” trading the louder izakaya energy for a quieter, polished dining room. The restaurant’s own site explains the name as a blend of “kaizen” and “me,” meant to signal continuous improvement and attention to detail; see Kaizume for more.
A look inside
The Oklahoman published a photo gallery on June 3, 2026, with images credited to Janae Williams from June 2 that showcase the dining room and plated dishes. The gallery highlights the warm wood finishes, soft lighting and the plated showpieces that diners have been calling out since Kaizume opened.
Hours, price and reservations
Kaizume currently lists dinner service from Tuesday through Saturday with a happy hour window, along with mid-range pricing and reservations available through its website and via OpenTable. The restaurant is located at 1501 NW 23rd St, and early OpenTable reviews praise the fish program, cocktails and desserts. Check the Kaizume website and OpenTable for the latest details on reservations and current hours.
