In the heart of East Nashville, Kase x Noko has become one of the toughest reservations in the country—recognized among Time Out’s Top 10 Sushi Restaurants in America. The experience centers around an intimate 14-seat omakase sushi bar, paired with a four-seat Japanese cocktail bar—the smallest in Tennessee. Founded by the team behind Noko Nashville—one of OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in America—2024 James Beard semi-finalist Chef Dung “Junior” Vo leads a thoughtfully crafted and imaginative 14-course tasting menu ($75/person) featuring fresh seafood flown in from around the world and handcrafted nigiri. The cocktail bar complements the neighborhood sushi bar with curated whiskey, sake, non-alcoholic libations, and Japanese-inspired cocktails like Princess Ichigo, Kyoto Garden, and Letter from the Emperor.
The interiors blend wabi-sabi inspiration with modern sophistication, utilizing dark, natural elements, layered textures, handmade ceramic tiles, and locally sourced woods, all accented by classic Gyotaku prints and vintage 1970s Tokyo photography. Rooted in the same “people over profit” ethos as Noko, Kase supports its team with four-day work weeks, a yearly travel stipend, complimentary access to online therapy, paid gym/yoga memberships, health insurance, two weeks paid vacation, and more.
One percent of the restaurant’s net profits are donated to their long-time non-profit partner, Nashville Children’s Alliance (NCA), an organization that provides services to children (at no cost) who have experienced sexual or severe physical abuse. Each year, the team proudly co-hosts the "Dine to Shine” gala, contributing over $300,000 in donations for the organization’s mission of providing trauma-specialized therapy, court support, and education to children affected by abuse.
Reservations open nightly at midnight, six weeks in advance, and typically sell out within minutes.