More than sushi

According to owner Charlie Yu, his new restaurant, Sushi Japan, should be up and running by the end of September. The space is located at 176 S. Old Woodward Avenue in Birmingham, which was the former home of 2941 Mediterranean Streetfood. Don’t let the name “Sushi Japan” fool you – because according to Yu, this eatery will offer much more than just sushi. The Asian menu will include an array of Chinese dishes, ramen noodles, chow mein, Korean BBQ and personal hot stone bowls which will be made tableside. Inside, the modern bright interior will have seating for 50, which includes six seats at the sushi counter. There will also be seating for 18 outside. Yu’s inspirational journey to restaurant owner began when he emigrated to the United States from Guangzhou, China, in 2008. Over the years, he worked a number of jobs at various Chinese restaurants, starting as a dishwasher and server. Most recently, he held the position of sushi chef for Kona Grill in Troy. It’s been a lot of hard work. “I am constantly trying to improve myself,” declared Yu.