A Sushiko Alum Opens a Modern Japanese Restaurant in Mt. Vernon Triangle - Source Washingtonian

Assorted nigiri at Nama. Photography courtesy of Nama.

Source Washingtonian

BY DANIELLA BYCK

WASHINGTON, DC. - The intimate space neighboring Alta Strada in Mt. Vernon Triangle once housed a globetrotting string of pop-ups from Michael Schlow. Now the restaurateur is ready to lay down roots with Nama, a 32-seat Japanese restaurant led by chef Handry Tjan, who made a name for himself at Sushiko and its luxe tasting counter, Kobo. The sushi spot opens Thursday for dinner.

“It’s a small restaurant so this is like his studio, this will be like his atelier,” says Schlow. “The idea is that he can have some fun here, get to really know the guests.”

The limited kitchen (no ovens or burners) is an exercise in culinary creativity. The space has already proven adaptable to crudos and sushi, having housed the raw bar Conosci and hosted a preview for Adachi, Schlow’s Detroit-area omakase spot. Nama steps up to the challenge with a menu shaped around two induction burners, a toaster oven, and rice warmers. Patrons can order from a menu of classic nigiri and rolls, or izakaya-style small plates like rock shrimp tempura and an indulgent kobe beef slider with melted parmesan, brown butter, and truffle. Those who booked Tjan’s modern omakase tasting at Kobo might want to try the chef’s selection here, offered at two price points ($45 and $85).

Source Washingtonian