Umai

Great food and okayish service. I ordered veggie tempura and a Newbury Maki. The tempura was the best I’ve had in awhile with Umai putting a variety of veggies in the appetizer. The Newbury Maki was good, a decent size, rice nicely cooked, and the whole thing tasted good. Loved the play with textures from the tempura pieces, salmon, avocado, and small roe. I was surprised miso nor a small salad was served after I ordered, but maybe those are only given alongside bigger entrees, like bentos. Service was a bit slow when I visited in the late evening (not too many customers). When I was brought the Toast machine to pay and tip, the waitress stood next to the machine watching how much I tipped, which seemed a little off to me. I’ve found most waiters will turn their heads when customers decide on a tip or aim the machine more towards the customer, so having the waitress stare down at the machine felt somewhat rude to me. Overall, Umai was good for my first experience. I’d probably visit again only after trying a handful of other sushi places in the Boston area.

Bright cozy interior and delicious, authentic food. We went for dinner after a conference and it was a perfect place to relax and hang out after a tiring day. I had the boneless chicken plate and my friend had the eel rice dish, both very good and served nice and hot. The miso soup was exceptionally flavored well. So many choices on Newberry so was happy with this surprise find.

Exceptional Japanese food. We're in Boston for a conference staying in Copley. The service is quick for lunch, not crowded. Food was fast and perfectly flavored, not too expensive. We really enjoyed the experience and hope to go back again tomorrow! The bento was spectacular. Great find in the heart of Boston.

Went here a few months ago and was quite pleased. Gyuhama is sorely missed and I kept trying to find a suitable replacement. Yamato doesn't quite fill the bill and didn't want any sushi joint too upscale and pretentious (looking at you Douzo Sushi). Umai fits the bill perfectly. Just an ordinary place to enjoy sushi and at reasonable prices. I will be returning.