Umi Sushi Ann Arbor offers an exceptional culinary experience that beautifully blends traditional Japanese flavors with modern creativity. Nestled in the heart of Ann Arbor, this sushi restaurant has become a local favorite for its fresh ingredients, artful presentation, and inviting atmosphere.
Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or a newcomer eager to explore the world of Japanese cuisine, Umi Sushi’s menu presents a diverse array of choices that cater to all palates. From classic rolls to inventive specialty dishes, the menu is thoughtfully curated to highlight the best of sushi craftsmanship.
The ambiance at Umi Sushi complements the dining experience, creating a warm and welcoming environment ideal for everything from casual lunches to celebratory dinners. Their commitment to quality shines through each dish, with chefs who meticulously prepare every bite to ensure an unforgettable taste.
Umi Sushi’s menu is more than just food—it’s a journey through the rich traditions of Japanese culinary art, enhanced by fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative techniques.
Exploring the menu reveals a harmonious balance between time-honored favorites and bold new creations. Whether you prefer the simplicity of sashimi or the complexity of a specialty roll, Umi Sushi delivers with precision and passion.
The attentive staff and carefully selected sake list further elevate the experience, making Umi Sushi Ann Arbor a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic and delightful Japanese cuisine.
Appetizers and Small Plates
The appetizer section at Umi Sushi Ann Arbor sets the tone for the meal, offering a variety of flavorful starters that awaken the palate. These small plates are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a light beginning to your sushi feast.
From traditional edamame to more elaborate options like crispy tempura and delicate gyoza, the appetizers showcase a range of textures and flavors. Each dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and balanced seasonings to complement the sushi that follows.
Many guests appreciate starting with the house-made miso soup, which provides a warm, comforting introduction to the menu. The depth of umami in the broth, combined with tofu and seaweed, makes it a beloved classic.
- Edamame: Steamed young soybeans lightly salted
- Gyoza: Pan-fried Japanese dumplings filled with pork and vegetables
- Tempura: Lightly battered and fried shrimp or vegetables
- Miso Soup: Traditional soybean paste broth with tofu and seaweed
Signature Starters
Among the appetizers, the Spicy Tuna Tartare stands out as a favorite for those who enjoy bold flavors. Finely chopped tuna mixed with spicy mayo and served with crispy wonton chips creates a delightful contrast in textures.
Another highlight is the Seaweed Salad, which offers a refreshing and slightly tangy taste, enhanced by sesame seeds and a light dressing. This dish is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients.
“The appetizers at Umi Sushi set a perfect stage for the main course, blending traditional tastes with an artistic touch.” – Local Food Critic
Classic Sushi Rolls
The core of Umi Sushi Ann Arbor’s menu lies in its classic sushi rolls, which honor Japanese tradition with authentic ingredients and precise techniques. These rolls are crafted to highlight the natural flavors of fresh fish and perfectly seasoned rice.
Whether you prefer simple rolls like the California Roll or more intricate creations such as the Dragon Roll, the menu offers something for every taste. Each roll is carefully assembled to balance flavor, texture, and appearance, making each bite a pleasure.
Umi Sushi takes pride in sourcing premium fish and seafood, ensuring that every roll bursts with freshness. The rice is expertly prepared with the ideal amount of vinegar and seasoning, providing the perfect base for the delicate fillings.
- California Roll: Crab meat, avocado, cucumber, and sesame seeds
- Spicy Tuna Roll: Tuna mixed with spicy mayo and scallions
- Philadelphia Roll: Smoked salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber
- Dragon Roll: Eel, cucumber, avocado, topped with thin avocado slices and eel sauce
Comparing Popular Rolls
| Roll | Main Ingredients | Spice Level | Texture |
| California Roll | Crab, avocado, cucumber | None | Creamy & crunchy |
| Spicy Tuna Roll | Tuna, spicy mayo, scallions | Medium | Soft & spicy |
| Philadelphia Roll | Smoked salmon, cream cheese, cucumber | None | Creamy & fresh |
| Dragon Roll | Eel, cucumber, avocado, eel sauce | None | Rich & smooth |
Specialty Rolls
Umi Sushi’s specialty rolls are where creativity truly shines, offering unique flavor combinations and eye-catching presentations. These rolls often feature unexpected ingredients and sauces that elevate them beyond traditional sushi.
Each specialty roll is carefully designed to provide a multi-dimensional flavor experience. They often incorporate spicy, sweet, and savory elements, making them a popular choice for adventurous diners.
These rolls are perfect for sharing and make for a memorable dining experience, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in something extraordinary.
- Volcano Roll: Spicy scallop and crab mix topped with baked scallops and spicy mayo
- Rainbow Roll: Crab and cucumber base topped with slices of various fresh fish
- Firecracker Roll: Tempura shrimp, spicy tuna, jalapeño, and spicy sauce
- Umi Special Roll: Eel, avocado, cream cheese, topped with tuna and spicy sauce
Specialty Roll Highlights
The Volcano Roll is a crowd-pleaser with its rich, creamy topping and subtle heat from the spicy mayo. The baked scallops add a warm, decadent texture that contrasts beautifully with the cooler crab base.
The Rainbow Roll is visually stunning and offers a variety of fresh fish, allowing you to enjoy multiple flavors in one bite. It’s an excellent option for those who want to sample several types of sushi at once.
“Specialty rolls at Umi Sushi combine artistry and flavor, delivering an unforgettable sushi experience with every bite.” – Regular Patron
Sashimi and Nigiri
For purists and those who appreciate the pure taste of fresh fish, Umi Sushi’s sashimi and nigiri selections are a true delight. These offerings focus on the quality and freshness of the seafood, served with minimal accompaniment.
Sashimi features thinly sliced raw fish served without rice, allowing the delicate flavors to take center stage. Nigiri consists of hand-pressed sushi rice topped with slices of fish or other seafood, sometimes accented with a small dab of wasabi.
Both options showcase the chef’s skill in selecting and preparing fish to highlight its natural sweetness and texture. The menu rotates seasonally to include the freshest catches available, ensuring a premium experience.
- Tuna (Maguro): Firm texture with a mild, rich flavor
- Salmon (Sake): Buttery texture and vibrant color
- Yellowtail (Hamachi): Slightly oily with a clean finish
- Octopus (Tako): Chewy texture with a subtle sweetness
Freshness and Presentation
Each sashimi plate is a work of art, carefully arranged to highlight the colors and textures of the fish. The nigiri pieces are crafted to balance the vinegared rice with the topping perfectly.
Umi Sushi emphasizes the importance of freshness, sourcing fish from trusted suppliers and maintaining strict quality control. This commitment ensures that every slice melts smoothly on the palate.
| Type | Typical Serving | Taste Profile |
| Sashimi | 3-5 slices | Pure, delicate, clean |
| Nigiri | 2 pieces | Balanced rice and fish |
Hot Entrees and Cooked Dishes
Beyond sushi, Umi Sushi Ann Arbor offers a variety of hot entrees and cooked dishes for those who prefer a warm meal. These options showcase the versatility of Japanese cuisine beyond raw preparations.
From teriyaki-glazed meats to tempura platters, the hot entrees provide satisfying flavors and comforting textures. These dishes are perfect for diners seeking heartier fare or a break from raw seafood.
The menu features carefully prepared options that maintain the restaurant’s high standards for freshness and flavor, using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
- Chicken Teriyaki: Grilled chicken glazed with a sweet soy sauce served with rice and vegetables
- Beef Yakiniku: Thinly sliced grilled beef with a savory dipping sauce
- Tempura Platter: Lightly battered and fried shrimp and vegetables
- Miso Glazed Black Cod: Rich, flaky fish with a caramelized miso glaze
Pairing Suggestions
Hot entrees pair beautifully with steamed rice and miso soup, rounding out the meal with familiar comforts. Guests often enjoy combining these dishes with lighter sushi options for a balanced dining experience.
Many appreciate the Miso Glazed Black Cod for its rich flavor and tender texture, which contrasts nicely with the lighter elements on the sushi menu.
“The hot dishes at Umi Sushi add depth and variety, perfect for those seeking traditional Japanese comfort food alongside sushi.” – Culinary Enthusiast
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Recognizing diverse dietary needs, Umi Sushi Ann Arbor offers a thoughtful selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes. These options are crafted to be as flavorful and satisfying as their seafood counterparts.
Vegetarians and vegans can enjoy fresh sushi rolls, salads, and hot dishes prepared without animal products. The kitchen takes care to use plant-based ingredients that highlight natural flavors and textures.
Offering these options ensures that everyone can enjoy a memorable meal, regardless of dietary restrictions, and showcases the versatility of Japanese cuisine.
- Avocado Roll: Creamy avocado wrapped in seasoned rice and seaweed
- Cucumber Roll: Crisp cucumber with sushi rice and nori
- Inari Sushi: Sweetened tofu pockets filled with sushi rice
- Vegetable Tempura: Lightly battered and fried seasonal vegetables
Healthy and Flavorful Choices
The vegetable tempura offers a satisfying crunch and savory flavor, ideal for those who want something warm and crispy without seafood. Additionally, the Inari Sushi provides a subtly sweet and textural contrast that many find delightful.
Umi Sushi prioritizes fresh, organic produce where possible, enhancing the nutritional value and taste of these dishes.
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Suitable For |
| Avocado Roll | Avocado, rice, nori | Vegetarian, Vegan |
| Cucumber Roll | Cucumber, rice, nori | Vegetarian, Vegan |
| Inari Sushi | Tofu, rice | Vegetarian, Vegan |
| Vegetable Tempura | Seasonal vegetables, tempura batter | Vegetarian, Vegan |
Beverages and Sake Selection
Complementing the food menu, Umi Sushi Ann Arbor boasts an impressive beverage list that includes traditional Japanese sake, craft beers, and specialty cocktails. The drink offerings are curated to enhance the sushi dining experience.
The sake selection spans from dry to sweet varieties, allowing guests to find the perfect match for their meal. Knowledgeable staff can recommend pairings that bring out the best flavors in both the drinks and dishes.
In addition to sake, the cocktail menu features creative blends that incorporate Japanese ingredients such as yuzu, matcha, and ginger, providing a unique twist on classic drinks.
- Junmai Sake: Pure rice sake with a clean, smooth taste
- Nigori Sake: Creamy, unfiltered sake with a slightly sweet flavor
- Yuzu Margarita: A citrusy cocktail featuring Japanese yuzu and tequila
- Japanese Lager: Crisp and refreshing beer options
Sake Pairing Guide
For lighter sushi dishes like sashimi and nigiri, a dry Junmai sake pairs beautifully, enhancing the delicate flavors without overpowering them.
Heavier rolls or spicy dishes often benefit from the creamier, sweeter notes of Nigori sake, which can balance heat and richness effectively.
“The artful sake selection at Umi Sushi elevates the entire meal, offering a perfect harmony between drink and dish.” – Sake Sommelier
Desserts and Sweet Endings
Ending the meal on a sweet note, Umi Sushi offers a selection of traditional and contemporary Japanese desserts. These treats provide a satisfying conclusion to the dining experience, balancing sweetness with subtle flavors.
From silky matcha ice cream to warm mochi, the dessert menu is crafted to be light yet indulgent. These options are ideal for sharing or enjoying solo after a flavorful sushi meal.
The desserts emphasize quality ingredients and authentic preparation methods, ensuring a memorable finish to your visit.
- Matcha Ice Cream: Green tea flavored ice cream with a rich, earthy taste
- Mochi: Soft rice cakes filled with sweet red bean or ice cream
- Tempura Cheesecake: A unique fried cheesecake with a crispy exterior
- Black Sesame Pudding: Creamy pudding with a nutty sesame flavor
Popular Dessert Choices
The Tempura Cheesecake offers a delightful contrast between a crunchy coating and a creamy interior, making it a standout choice for those looking for something different.
Matcha ice cream remains a classic favorite, prized for its balance of sweetness and the slightly bitter notes characteristic of green tea.
| Dessert | Description | Flavor Profile |
| Matcha Ice Cream | Green tea flavored ice cream | Earthy, sweet, creamy |
| Mochi | Rice cake with sweet filling | Soft, chewy, sweet |
| Tempura Cheesecake | Fried cheesecake with crispy batter | Sweet, creamy, crunchy |
| Black Sesame Pudding | Creamy pudding with sesame flavor | Nutty, smooth, sweet |
Conclusion
Umi Sushi Ann Arbor’s menu offers a comprehensive journey through Japanese cuisine that satisfies both traditionalists and adventurous diners alike. The careful selection of dishes, from fresh sashimi and classic rolls to inventive specialty creations, highlights the restaurant’s dedication to quality and authenticity.
Every section of the menu is thoughtfully crafted to showcase fresh ingredients, expert preparation, and artistic presentation. Whether you’re drawn to the delicate nuances of raw fish, the comforting warmth of hot entrees, or the refreshing simplicity of vegetarian options, Umi Sushi provides a well-rounded culinary experience that caters to diverse tastes.
Complemented by an expertly curated beverage list and enticing desserts, the dining experience at Umi Sushi is both satisfying and memorable. The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service further enhance the enjoyment, making it a standout destination in Ann Arbor’s vibrant food scene.
For those seeking the perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and flavor, Umi Sushi Ann Arbor’s menu promises a delightful exploration of Japanese cuisine that leaves a lasting impression.
