Social Profile: 
✔️Dinner ✔️Dine in
… View more
Yugenn is a refined Japanese and Asian-inspired restaurant and lounge, featuring handcrafted specialty cocktails and a curated selection of sake and wine. Its vibrant, high-energy atmosphere transforms on weekends with live entertainment, making it a premier destination for unforgettable dining and nightlife.
Hours
| Wednesday | 5–11 PM |
| Thursday | 5–11 PM |
| Friday | 5 PM–12 AM |
| Saturday | 5 PM–12 AM |
| Sunday | 5–10 PM |
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 5–11 PM |
Address and Contact Information
Address: 255 W Bland St Suite 200, Charlotte, NC 28203
Phone: (980) 209-0811
Website: https://www.yugenn.co/
Menu Photos
Related Web Results
Yugenn | Discover Culinary Excellence Today
Chef Boi, is a Laotian-American chef born in New Orleans in 1987 and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina from the age of four. Growing up in a close-knit …
YUGENN Charlotte (@yugennclt) • Instagram photos and videos
Contemporary Japanese dining in South End! YUGENN Charlotte is serving a menu full of sushi, modern Asian-inspired cuisine, and delicious cocktails. Their chic …
YUGENN – Charlotte, NC – Tock
… YUGENN. Charlotte, NC · Asian · $$$. Yugenn is a refined Japanese and Asian-inspired restaurant offering hand crafted specialty cocktails and a curated …
Reviews
Peggy Crane
We went to try Yugenn for Charlotte’s
Queen’s Feast restaurant week. This was a restaurant that I had walked by before, but hadn’t heard much about.
The good? The hamachi (for the crudo) and the salmon and Akami for the nigiri were fresh and nice sized pieces.
The bad? Ok maybe not “bad” but a little off… the restaurant itself seemed to be trying to be either a nightclub or a fancier place than it really was. The corded stanchions out front didn’t seem necessary. There was a DJ setting up while we were there. Maybe it was back ground music? And maybe that is why it was so loud. I don’t know if there was a “good” table in the place. They all seemed to be somewhat near the door (cold air) and by the host stand.
The service? The hosts were very nice. The strange thing was they only asked one out of four of us if we would like to hang our coats. Our server was sake certified? But seemed annoyed when we asked questions about the menu.
The food? The scallop appetizer was cold in the center and it was the one that came out well after the other apps. The kimchee fried chicken roll was huge and had a ton of rice. The south end roll was better, but was heavily sauced and overpowered the flavor of the fish. I thought it odd that we didn’t get to serve ourselves soy sauce and that there was no ginger or wasabi served with the sushi. The desserts were ok. The sorbet was better than the chocolate mousse which had a distracting texture.
Overall, I don’t think I would go back and I don’t know that they want me back. I got a text message 30 min after getting home that they had cancelled my reservation.
… moreQueen’s Feast restaurant week. This was a restaurant that I had walked by before, but hadn’t heard much about.
The good? The hamachi (for the crudo) and the salmon and Akami for the nigiri were fresh and nice sized pieces.
The bad? Ok maybe not “bad” but a little off… the restaurant itself seemed to be trying to be either a nightclub or a fancier place than it really was. The corded stanchions out front didn’t seem necessary. There was a DJ setting up while we were there. Maybe it was back ground music? And maybe that is why it was so loud. I don’t know if there was a “good” table in the place. They all seemed to be somewhat near the door (cold air) and by the host stand.
The service? The hosts were very nice. The strange thing was they only asked one out of four of us if we would like to hang our coats. Our server was sake certified? But seemed annoyed when we asked questions about the menu.
The food? The scallop appetizer was cold in the center and it was the one that came out well after the other apps. The kimchee fried chicken roll was huge and had a ton of rice. The south end roll was better, but was heavily sauced and overpowered the flavor of the fish. I thought it odd that we didn’t get to serve ourselves soy sauce and that there was no ginger or wasabi served with the sushi. The desserts were ok. The sorbet was better than the chocolate mousse which had a distracting texture.
Overall, I don’t think I would go back and I don’t know that they want me back. I got a text message 30 min after getting home that they had cancelled my reservation.
Aniel
I’m a huge sushi lover and was hoping for a fantastic omakase experience. I knew the prices would be high given the quality they claimed to offer, and that was fine by me.
We started with the Vietnamese Espresso Martini after asking if it was sweet the waiter said it would be, with a nice foam on top. When it arrived, there was no foam at all and warm, it honestly tasted terrible, one of the worst espresso martinis I’ve ever had. We also tried the Lychee Clover Club and the Lotus Milk Punch, and both were just as disappointing.
For the sushi, I ordered the Otoro, Ora King and the sunset Blvd, The fish itself was good in quality, but the sauces they added on top completely overpowered the natural flavor of the fish. My friend had the Katsu Miso Carbonara, which she said was okay, but definitely not something she’d come back for.
We also wanted to try the pandan tiramisu, but they were out of it, so we went with the coconut mango sorbet instead. It turned out to be a tiny scoop of ice cream drowned in way too much sauce, which ruined it.
Service-wise, we felt rushed the whole time, but when we actually needed our waiter, he was nowhere to be found. The manager eventually stepped in and comped the undrinkable cocktails, which was appreciated, but it felt more like they were doing us a favor rather than simply providing the level of service you’d expect.
In short, the restaurant has a lot of kinks to work out. The food presentation and ingredient quality show potential, but the flavors, drinks, and service don’t yet match the prices they charge. I wouldn’t go back, but if you decide to give it a try, just know it’s still very much a work in progress.
… moreWe started with the Vietnamese Espresso Martini after asking if it was sweet the waiter said it would be, with a nice foam on top. When it arrived, there was no foam at all and warm, it honestly tasted terrible, one of the worst espresso martinis I’ve ever had. We also tried the Lychee Clover Club and the Lotus Milk Punch, and both were just as disappointing.
For the sushi, I ordered the Otoro, Ora King and the sunset Blvd, The fish itself was good in quality, but the sauces they added on top completely overpowered the natural flavor of the fish. My friend had the Katsu Miso Carbonara, which she said was okay, but definitely not something she’d come back for.
We also wanted to try the pandan tiramisu, but they were out of it, so we went with the coconut mango sorbet instead. It turned out to be a tiny scoop of ice cream drowned in way too much sauce, which ruined it.
Service-wise, we felt rushed the whole time, but when we actually needed our waiter, he was nowhere to be found. The manager eventually stepped in and comped the undrinkable cocktails, which was appreciated, but it felt more like they were doing us a favor rather than simply providing the level of service you’d expect.
In short, the restaurant has a lot of kinks to work out. The food presentation and ingredient quality show potential, but the flavors, drinks, and service don’t yet match the prices they charge. I wouldn’t go back, but if you decide to give it a try, just know it’s still very much a work in progress.
Elise Yafet
Wonderful food + cocktail experience. Truly loved the lobster fried rice and basically everything we ordered (not pictured was a few sushi rolls, an eggplant dish, etc.).
I felt our server could’ve been more knowledgeable and provided more recs. I also thought one of the bartenders was a bit rude/pretentious early into our experience.
Finally, at the table, we ordered two dirty martinis with blue cheese olives. We were then told they were out of them, but at the end, we were still charged for them on the bill. My friend paid for a group of 5 of us so I didn’t realize until the next day. It’s minor, but I’d appreciate restaurants paying closer attention to these things.
Overall, I would recommend this spot though and would return!
… moreI felt our server could’ve been more knowledgeable and provided more recs. I also thought one of the bartenders was a bit rude/pretentious early into our experience.
Finally, at the table, we ordered two dirty martinis with blue cheese olives. We were then told they were out of them, but at the end, we were still charged for them on the bill. My friend paid for a group of 5 of us so I didn’t realize until the next day. It’s minor, but I’d appreciate restaurants paying closer attention to these things.
Overall, I would recommend this spot though and would return!
Christina L
I never leave reviews, but Yugenn warrants it. As someone who is from NYC, I’ve been underwhelmed by Charlotte’s food scene. I have had yet to find a restaurant that has the whole package where exceptional food and creative cocktails are complemented by a high-energy vibe (a DJ came on at 7 to dial it up a notch), but Yugenn delivers.
I came in by myself for a small bite and drinks on a Friday night and sat at the bar. The entire team was exceptional and attentive. I started with the Ca Phe Sua Martini, a Vietnamese coffee martini, and the miso foam added a subtle savory finish. I followed that up with Last Call, a very drinkable tequila cocktail with tamari honey that I ended up ordering a few more of.
And if I could, I’d have the Chashu Miso Carbonara every day. The pork was beautifully seared, the chili oil added a nice little kick, the tableside shaving of cured egg yolk added the perfect extra touch of salt, and the concept of the dish is exactly what you want from an innovative interpretation of contemporary Asian food.
I came back the next night with friends and we tried more dishes. The Jewel and Pink Temptation were a huge hit. Also loved our rolls (Red Dragon and kimchi fried chicken) and there was an off-menu foie gras pavé that was rich and absolutely delicious. Our server let us know that they often have off-menu specials, so make sure to ask about those!
You can tell that everything is intentional here, with premium ingredients to back it all up. Reviews saying that this isn’t NYC or Miami or whatever—my only question is why don’t you want Charlotte’s scene to be more elevated? This spot has instantly shot straight to my favorites list and I’m already planning my next trip back to try more of the menu.
… moreI came in by myself for a small bite and drinks on a Friday night and sat at the bar. The entire team was exceptional and attentive. I started with the Ca Phe Sua Martini, a Vietnamese coffee martini, and the miso foam added a subtle savory finish. I followed that up with Last Call, a very drinkable tequila cocktail with tamari honey that I ended up ordering a few more of.
And if I could, I’d have the Chashu Miso Carbonara every day. The pork was beautifully seared, the chili oil added a nice little kick, the tableside shaving of cured egg yolk added the perfect extra touch of salt, and the concept of the dish is exactly what you want from an innovative interpretation of contemporary Asian food.
I came back the next night with friends and we tried more dishes. The Jewel and Pink Temptation were a huge hit. Also loved our rolls (Red Dragon and kimchi fried chicken) and there was an off-menu foie gras pavé that was rich and absolutely delicious. Our server let us know that they often have off-menu specials, so make sure to ask about those!
You can tell that everything is intentional here, with premium ingredients to back it all up. Reviews saying that this isn’t NYC or Miami or whatever—my only question is why don’t you want Charlotte’s scene to be more elevated? This spot has instantly shot straight to my favorites list and I’m already planning my next trip back to try more of the menu.
Jakeemia Rankin
10/10 experience at Yugenn. Kendell was our server and made our night extra special!
I loved the Hotate Nigiri, the Hamachi special plate and the Lobster fried rice. The fish was super fresh , and I love that they don’t keep imported fish longer than 4 days. I feel each dish was worth the price and I’ll be back!
… moreI loved the Hotate Nigiri, the Hamachi special plate and the Lobster fried rice. The fish was super fresh , and I love that they don’t keep imported fish longer than 4 days. I feel each dish was worth the price and I’ll be back!
H Todd
If you are looking for a vibe that is effortlessly cool featuring dim lighting, sleek interiors, and an energy that makes it perfect for both date night and girls’ night out, go to Yugenn.
The sushi here is nothing short of spectacular. It’s fresh, artfully plated, and bursting with unique flavors. I personally had the unagi and chutoro premium nigiri and the sunset blvd roll. All of it was perfection.
The cocktail menu was also fun and unique. The smoke old fashioned is smoked table side. Their take on the espresso martini (Vietnamese coffee inspired) was the absolute perfect way to end the evening with friends.
If you want to have amazing cocktails, sushi and other Japanese inspired dishes, book your table now! You will not forget the experience.
… moreThe sushi here is nothing short of spectacular. It’s fresh, artfully plated, and bursting with unique flavors. I personally had the unagi and chutoro premium nigiri and the sunset blvd roll. All of it was perfection.
The cocktail menu was also fun and unique. The smoke old fashioned is smoked table side. Their take on the espresso martini (Vietnamese coffee inspired) was the absolute perfect way to end the evening with friends.
If you want to have amazing cocktails, sushi and other Japanese inspired dishes, book your table now! You will not forget the experience.
Spenser Morgan
Yugenn absolutely delivers on every level — incredible sushi, perfectly crafted cocktails, and an atmosphere that makes the night feel special. I sat at the bar where Nick took great care of me, but what really stood out was how the whole team checked in throughout the meal — everyone was friendly, attentive, and genuinely cared that I had a great experience.
The food was beyond impressive — every bite was balanced, fresh, and beautifully presented. The music and vibe were spot on, making it just as enjoyable to relax and take it all in. Easily the best food experience I’ve had anywhere. Highly recommend.
… moreThe food was beyond impressive — every bite was balanced, fresh, and beautifully presented. The music and vibe were spot on, making it just as enjoyable to relax and take it all in. Easily the best food experience I’ve had anywhere. Highly recommend.
Eda
Yugenn strikes hot! As the Japanese concept of profound and mysterious beauty goes, yugen is not merely a name but a promise Lisa and her team deliver on nightly. From the moment you arrive, an invisible choreography begins: doors glide open, chairs ease back, and smiles arc across the room like lanterns, guiding you into a neon-bathed dreamscape where basslines throb and the most stylish of guests come and go like fireflies.
The menu reads like a love letter to the ocean and the grill. Begin with the hamachi crudo—translucent petals of yellowtail electrified by lime zest and a whisper of chili heat—then surrender to the otoro nigiri, so buttery it melts like snow on the tongue, justifying every cent of its princely price. Even the fried heritage chicken is elevated: shatter-crisp skin giving way to juicy, flaky clouds of meat.
Bring friends, bring a date, or simply bring your appetite for wonder. Yugenn is a weekend passport to the electrifying district of Tokyo.
… moreThe menu reads like a love letter to the ocean and the grill. Begin with the hamachi crudo—translucent petals of yellowtail electrified by lime zest and a whisper of chili heat—then surrender to the otoro nigiri, so buttery it melts like snow on the tongue, justifying every cent of its princely price. Even the fried heritage chicken is elevated: shatter-crisp skin giving way to juicy, flaky clouds of meat.
Bring friends, bring a date, or simply bring your appetite for wonder. Yugenn is a weekend passport to the electrifying district of Tokyo.
Christina Duong
I’m genuinely blown away by Yugenn. I live in Los Angeles, where incredible sushi is the norm, so I honestly wasn’t expecting Charlotte to match that level, but this place surprised me in the best way.
We started with cocktails. The Lychee Clover Club was bright & refreshing without being overly sweet, and the Lotus Milk Punch was so clean & beautifully clarified that you can taste every layer. We also ordered The Shokunin, and it was absolutely worth its premium price. It was silky, rich, and complex, with a wagyu washed depth, barrel strength warmth, & a subtle umami smoked finish that I LOVED! It’s one of those drinks that makes you pause after every sip to enjoy the flavors.
For food, the quality speaks for itself. The Yugenn lobster sashimi was so fresh, delicate, and thoughtfully presented. The Pink Temptation was such a standout we ordered it multiple times! The toro is rich, buttery, and just perfect. Melt in your mouth delicious! When I order toro this is the quality I expect.
The Lobster Fried Rice was perfectly seasoned with huge generous amounts of tender lobster… easily the best fried rice I’ve had anywhere. The Carbonara with uni & caviar was another highlight, creamy, salty, luxe, but somehow not heavy.
& the star of the night…The off menu Jewel of the Sea. Toro, uni, & caviar in one bite with seaweed to wrap it into the perfect hand roll. Absolutely unforgettable!!! The uni quality here is soooooo good and fresh.
The space is beautiful, warm lighting, modern details, and a chic, energetic vibe. Service was attentive, friendly, & perfectly paced.
& for anyone who truly understands high quality sushi and premium ingredients, the pricing makes complete sense. You can taste exactly what you’re paying for.
Charlotte has been lacking this caliber of elevated dining, & I genuinely hope the city continues to get more restaurants of this quality. Yugenn is setting the standard, & I’d highly recommend it for date nights, celebrations, or anytime you want something exceptional.
… moreWe started with cocktails. The Lychee Clover Club was bright & refreshing without being overly sweet, and the Lotus Milk Punch was so clean & beautifully clarified that you can taste every layer. We also ordered The Shokunin, and it was absolutely worth its premium price. It was silky, rich, and complex, with a wagyu washed depth, barrel strength warmth, & a subtle umami smoked finish that I LOVED! It’s one of those drinks that makes you pause after every sip to enjoy the flavors.
For food, the quality speaks for itself. The Yugenn lobster sashimi was so fresh, delicate, and thoughtfully presented. The Pink Temptation was such a standout we ordered it multiple times! The toro is rich, buttery, and just perfect. Melt in your mouth delicious! When I order toro this is the quality I expect.
The Lobster Fried Rice was perfectly seasoned with huge generous amounts of tender lobster… easily the best fried rice I’ve had anywhere. The Carbonara with uni & caviar was another highlight, creamy, salty, luxe, but somehow not heavy.
& the star of the night…The off menu Jewel of the Sea. Toro, uni, & caviar in one bite with seaweed to wrap it into the perfect hand roll. Absolutely unforgettable!!! The uni quality here is soooooo good and fresh.
The space is beautiful, warm lighting, modern details, and a chic, energetic vibe. Service was attentive, friendly, & perfectly paced.
& for anyone who truly understands high quality sushi and premium ingredients, the pricing makes complete sense. You can taste exactly what you’re paying for.
Charlotte has been lacking this caliber of elevated dining, & I genuinely hope the city continues to get more restaurants of this quality. Yugenn is setting the standard, & I’d highly recommend it for date nights, celebrations, or anytime you want something exceptional.
Julianna M
Service was great, and the staff was very attentive. The atmosphere was pretty when you first walk in, but our table was down a set of steps in an area that felt unfinished. It was quiet, which was nice, but empty. The food was good, though definitely overpriced. The sushi rolls were over $20 each, and the alcohol menu was quite limited. We spent over $200 per person. I’d recommend trying the pasta if you go. It was the highlight of the meal. Due to the price, we probably won’t return.
… more