John Tang, Owner of Sushi OIt’s often said that Durham and Raleigh don’t mix. And for that matter, you don’t often see Thai, Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese on the same menu. But John Tang, who recently opened Sushi O in Glenwood South is a bridge builder. Having started with Mt. Fuji restaurant in Downtown Durham, Mr. Tang has now set his sights on the daytime, evening and late night crowds of Glenwood South in Downtown Raleigh.
Having walked by his store front on the street level of 222 Glenwood, my wife and I expected to find an informal lunch spot, where we might be tempted by the Take-Out menu. We were wrong. The restaurant is inviting, with an urban chic flare that makes you want to linger. The menu with suggested wine selections would certainly encourage this in the evening.
Sushi O just opened last month at 222 Glenwood next to Tobacco Road, in the spot vacated early this year by Dunkin’ Donuts. They offer a full bar, and outside seating is available.
Tracy Barnes interviewed owner John Tang, and asked him a few questions.
Tracy: “What makes your restaurant stand out from others in Glenwood South?
John: “We have an amazing selection of Specialty Sushi rolls, and greater and fresher selection of sashimi. “We also offer a Blend or Collection of Asia Food, the best flavors of Asian cuisine, including Thai, Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese.”
Tracy: How did you come up with the name Sushi O come from?
John: “I wanted the name to be sushi something, so people could remember it easily and also for people to know that we are serious about sushi. So when I got the letter “O”, I thought it sounded very catchy and trendy, and “O” can stand for original.”
Downtown residents will love the daily food and wine specials. Sushi rolls are offered at half price from 5:00-6:30pm daily, and it applies to their entire sushi menu! The special half price is offered again for the late night. crowd, from 11:00pm till… Thursday-Saturdays. They also have half price bottles of wine Tuesday through Sunday, 1/2 off hot sake on Wednesdays and $3.00 pints on Mondays.
Tracy says. “the portions and presentation of dishes are amazing, the staff is super friendly”, and goes on to say that “many other 222 condo residents visit several times a week if not daily”.
Downtown residents are drawn to bridge builders. We are often crossing from life in the suburbs to Downtown, or maybe like my wife and me, crossing from work life to retirement. We appreciate variety and surprise. Whether youʼre walking or taking the R Line, with a stop across the street from Sushi O, this is a destination youʼll appreciate.
Ate sushi there tonight and it was delicious! The fish was beautiful and I loved their unique options. Can't wait to go back.