Nama Izakaya

  4.2 – 51 reviews   • Asian restaurant

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As we celebrate 20 years of Nama Sushi Bar in Knoxville, we’re excited to introduce Nama Izakaya—a fresh new concept inspired by Japan’s lively dining culture. Featuring a seasonally rotating menu of approachable yet creative Asian dishes, paired with unique craft cocktails and late-night food and bar service, Nama Izakaya is designed for sharing, celebrating, and discovering bold new flavors. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Nama Sushi Bar or visiting us for the first time, we invite you to be part of the next chapter in Knoxville’s dining scene.

✔️Dinner ✔️Dine in Nama Izakaya 37902

Address and Contact Information

Address: 141 S Gay St, Knoxville, TN 37902

Phone: (865) 800-6262

Website: https://www.namaizakaya.com/

Menu Photos

Order and Reservations

Reservations: resy.com

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Book Your Nama Izakaya Reservation Now on Resy

Nama Izakaya. April Omakase. Tue, Apr 7, 2026 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM. Knoxville 100 Block/Old City. Nama Izakaya. 141 S Gay Street. 141 S Gay St. Knoxville, TN 37902.

Reviews

Jeff Finnegan
The first Omakase dinner did not disappoint. All nine courses were appropriately sized and absolutely transcendent. Each bite left you wanting more. Every course was delicious and beautifully presented. There were two seatings at 5:00 and 7:30 each split between the two separated areas of the restaurant so there was no rush in getting the first group out. The chef came out and visited our table to make sure we enjoyed everything that we were served. We have already signed up for the December Omakase dinner. Foodies unite! If you love Asian cuisine, you have a place to be on December 2nd. The staff were great, very attentive and they all did a great job of taking care of everyone. Izakaya should be on your weekly rotation without question. The regular menu is very affordable and under $20.00 – the Omakase is only $75.00 with an optional Sake pairing for an additional $25.00. Wonderful experience – you have to give this place a try for sure.
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Sandy Covino
Atmosphere has a modern Asian feel, with lively music, and comfortable seating. Food was delicious. Favorites included tuna sashimi, tempura shrimp and the braised short rib with crunchy rice noodles and mushrooms. Fancy cocktails to start. Our server was friendly and attentive, and the manager checked in on us. Will definitely recommend and return to try other dishes soon!
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KJ Wink
We went during Christmas time and the atmosphere was very fun. Great drinks and food! Three out of four of us got the Mushroom Crispy Rice (gluten sensitive) and it was SO good. Definitely will be ordering again!
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Emma S
Amazing food, especially the ramen — which is why we came back for a date night. We made a 9:30 PM reservation and even called earlier in the day to confirm we could come in later. Since they’re open until 12 on Fridays and Saturdays (11 on weekdays), we didn’t expect any issues. When we arrived, we were told they only serve a late-night menu after 9 PM with just a few snack options, not full meals. This was never mentioned to us ahead of time, which ruined the experience, so we left. Great food, but very disappointing communication.
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Roddy Ryans
We had dinner consisting of two small plates (Korean Fried Chicken and Tempura Vegetables with a small Miso soup too) and a big plate with Beef Bulgogi. All were very well plated and very good, tasty and easy to share. We had Yellowtail Nigiri afterward and it was really good as well. We had no issues, the wait staff were welcoming and friendly and had all our needs taken care of. Thanks so much for a wonderful meal!
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Alhen Drillich
Empty restaurant and still sub par service. Small plates were overpriced and lacked creativity. Shrimp texture was off. Tofu bites were ok, but a number of the clumped/stuck together when frying. Ordering the fries and expecting anything more was on me…. *eye roll*
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Steve Fittes
Our first time, what a delightful experience. Service was great, food was AWESOME, ambiance was terrific. Already have our next reservation!!!
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Dereck
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had.
From start to finish, everything was exceptional — but what truly set this place apart was the service and care. The chef personally came to our table, talked through the menu with me, and went out of their way to accommodate my shellfish allergy without making it feel limiting or stressful.
The food was outstanding, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and the level of attention made us feel genuinely valued as guests. You can tell there’s real pride behind what they do here.
This wasn’t just a meal — it was an experience. We’ll absolutely be back and will be recommending this place to everyone we know.
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Samantha Gonzales
Had a great experience here! The food was amazing and the vibe on the bar side was super chill and moody. The tapas style menu was perfect for sharing so we could try a little of everything. The edamame was my favorite — garlicky, saucy, and a great portion for sharing. The sashimi tuna and short rib were both delicious too. Service was excellent and super attentive. Can’t wait to come back!
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Matthew Lyscas
My girlfriend and I went there for a casual quick date night downtown. This ended up being a great choice – the atmosphere is elevated, but the overall vibe is very comfortable and casual. Our favorite dishes were the Edamame which was a generous serving and fully dressed. I really enjoyed the “fritter” it was different but really good. Definitely plan on going back to try the rest! Also our server was excellent and very helpful and attentive.
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