Restaurant Reservations - Free • Instant • Confirmed
Learn More
Restaurant Reviews
Find Restaurants in Your Area
Select a Location
Reserve now:

O-Ku Reviews List

O-Ku

Lowcountry fare takes an exotic turn east at O-Ku on Charleston’s bustling upper King Street. Named one of the Top 20 Best New Restaurants by Esquire magazine in 2010, the restaurant celebrates authentic Asian cuisine with a contemporary twist that focuses on unique ingredients and sophisticated presentation.

From petite plates such as tempura rock shrimp salad to sushi specialties like yellowtail carpaccio with cilantro, Serrano pepper and yuzu truffle soy, O-Ku showcases the freshest fish from the world’s finest markets as well as locally sourced ingredients. O-Ku’s interior is modern, yet offers a reminder of Charleston’s charms and history with its exposed brick and high ceilings. A fine selection of sake and hand-made cocktails complement the restaurant’s eclectic menu and sleek ambiance, making O-Ku one of Charleston’s top dining destinations.
See more O-Ku details
124 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.4 / 5
(124 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 124 reviews
5 stars
(63)
4 stars
(52)
3 stars
(9)
2 stars
(0)
1 star
(0)
Food 
4.6 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.6 / 5
Service 
4.4 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.4 / 5
Ambiance 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Noise Level
2.5 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(83)
  • vibrant bar scene(73)
  • hot spot(68)
  • special occasion(51)
  • good for groups(47)
  • romantic(39)
O-Ku Reviews List
Review 1 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

in love!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We have fallen in love with O-Ku and hope to come on a regular basis! The food is so fresh and beautifully prepared with a wonderful menu! Our waiter was awesome and very helpful! It was a little noisy but that won't keep us from returning!"
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 2 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Better than I Expected

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"In the middle of all the North King craziness, O-Ku sits on a corner and looks a little dark. It's a sushi place but it turns out to be more. The sushi is really really good, but other tasties on the menu outperformed. The duck tacos for example were really really awesome. Good wine list, excellent cocktails, the servers were great, probably because the owner is there and very visible on the floor. It can be extremely crowded and really transforms into a bar after about 10PM. Tons of CofC and MUSC people."
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 3 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

FAVORITE!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I LOVE OKU and would suggest it to anyone. The most fresh and unique sushi rolls I've ever had, definitely raises the bar for all other sushi restaurants. I've had almost every roll on the menu and have never been disappointed. The drinks are awesome too and are also very unique. One of the best happy hours!! Can't say enough about this place."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 4 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great cocktails too!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Went to O-Ku twice in one week. One friend in from Nova Scotia loved it. Another friend, a regular there, was fondly greeted by all the staff, especially the ever-courtly manager. Food is also wonderful; specials are not to be missed. Tried a new drink introduced last month -- I think it's a White Lotus -- fabulous summer drink. Too bad I'm always the driver or I'd have at least 2.
Check it out -- always a lovely dining experience. Customers are always treated like long-time friends.
Charleston has become a top tourist destination and "foodie-town" -- but O-Ku goes the extra step to make everyone feel special.
"
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 5 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Very good and fun.

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"A vibrant sushi restaurant with an extensive menu. Lots of choices. We were full after all of our sushi bites, but the full dinners looked fabulous. Can't wait to go back for that and another Ginger's Afterglow Cocktail. Very satisfactory service, food and ambience."
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 6 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

O-Ku on Saturday night

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Visiting Charleston from the UK and went to O-Ku on saturday night. Great atmos, great decor, good vibe, superb food. But.......the restuarant becomes a dance party bar later, which is cool in itself, but they started packing the dining tables away too early. My date and i were still eating at 9.30 and they started packing the tables away next to us. We found this rude and discourteous and made us feel unwanted / in the way, which given we'd just had an expensive meal, was not something we should have been made to feel. It particularly annoyed my dinner date who lives locally and recommended the restaurant. Come on O-Ku, so some professional etiquette and leave it until a bit later to start packing the tables away."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, late-night find, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 7 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Everything was Outstanding

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Everything at Oku is amazing the atmosphere is excellent perfect for a romatic night out or a fun meeting place for friends on a friday night. They have happy hour on Monday Wednesday and Fridays from 5-7 where all their sushi rolls and select saki's are half priced. I had a crab crunch roll and it was excellent the crab tasted super fresh and had great flavor.The Geshia Garden mixed drink was a peach and Japanese liquor mix that was divine. I will be returning to Oku frequently!"
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, late-night find, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 8 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food and Server were both amazing..

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Went in for a work dinner, and had an amazing meal and service. Morgan our server, made our night!"
Dined on 6/04/2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 9 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Loved it!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/29/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My husband and I went to O-Ku on a date during vacation. It was wonderful! The food and service were outstanding. Although the noise level was a little loud, the atmosphere was energetic and fun. We will definitely return next time we visit Charleston!"
Dined on 5/29/2013
Special Features: good for groups, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 10 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A perfect spot for happy hour

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/27/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This place deserves all the wonderful accolades it receives. We found no detractions in anything. The sushi is innovative and delicious. Try the Potato rolls or the lemon/ salmon rolls. You can't go wrong. The bar is pleasant during happy hour and their house cocktails are too good to miss. The Jasmanian Devil...my favorite is spicy and the perfect complement for the sushi."
Dined on 5/27/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 11 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good food, Bad

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I made a reservation several days ahead of time and once my party arrived the hostesses told us it would only be a few minutes. We ended up having to wait 45 minutes on a Saturday night until getting seated. This is the second time this has happened to me at O-Ku so it is clear that they do not seat people on time. However, the food and drinks were both really good but the delayed seating really did put a damper on our night."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 12 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was good but it was so loud it was hard to hear what the server was saying. Maybe it was just busy because of the Spoleto crowd. The food was amazing tho - will probably go back"
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 13 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Exceptional with one caveat

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/23/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The entire dining experience was great from the greeting at the front door, to the service and great selections on the menu. The one
' however' is regarding the music which did not fit the surroundings and was entirely too loud. This comment from a music lover, who found the performance distracting and making it difficult to enjoy conversation. Perhaps the speaker volume could be tweeked.
"
Dined on 5/23/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 14 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

PKU

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/13/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great sushi! Half price on Monday, Wednesday"
Dined on 5/13/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 15 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The best Japanese food, especially sashimi and shusi in incredible incarnations and also in their purely simple states. The menu offers other Japanese dishes as well - everything prepared to perfection with stunning presentation. Prices are moderate - an amazing value for this exerience
The freshest fish, interesting menu offerings, and gracious and professional service make for a pretty-close-to-perfect experience.
"
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 16 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great food, great service, lovely ambiance. This is my 2nd time at O-ku, and the 2nd time was as good as the first."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 17 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

It was a very pleasant experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Some friends treated me out for my bday and I couldn't have picked a better place to go! This was my first time trying Sushi(although my friends had) and it was a great experience! It made a Sushi lover out of me! My friends raved of how fresh and flavorful it was. I would definitely recommend this place. The environment was very relaxed and dim. Perfect in my opinion! We went on a wed night so the mood was laid back. I will definitely be going back! They also offer free valet parking which is a huge plus!"
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: good for groups, romantic, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 18 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

O-Ku is amazing

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The sushi is outstanding, and the service is perfect--attentive but never overbearing. Their cocktails are some of the best in Charleston--I always get a lychee martini and also tried a champagne cocktail that was fantastic. The rock shrimp salad and the O-Ku spring rolls are OUT of this world delicious--those are must-tries, and the carpaccio and tartare are done perfectly! Always good, and always inventive with their sushi, this is one of my favorite spots in Charleston."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, hot spot, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 19 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

O-KU nails it again

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We went for a late birthday celebration Sunday evening. Everything was great and no one in our party had a single complaint about anything at all. Thanks much to all."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 20 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Appetizer special was too small - not a good value. The fish special was very good for dinner but the chicken was bland. Would prefer to have a non-bar top type table."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, romantic
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 21 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

21st birthday celebration

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 4/30/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a wonderful time celebrating at O Ku. Everything was perfect!!!"
Dined on 4/30/2013
Special Features: special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 22 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Very good sushi!! Absolutely

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Very good sushi!! Absolutely loved the service too!"
Dined on 04/27/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 23 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had a great experience

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had a great experience at O-Ku. Excellent food and service!"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 24 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Excellent food. Only complaint

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Excellent food. Only complaint is too noisy. Music is too loud to talk and that made enjoying the company almost impossible. Will fome back but not for a "date night.""
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, special occasion, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 25 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great food and service, noisy

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great food and service, noisy but fantastic fiddle player"
Dined on 04/18/2013
 2011
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 26 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Fresh Sushi

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I was visiting Charleston on business and a local colleagues recommended it. Great sushi, rolls, sake, and other drinks. Their Monday, Wednesday, Friday half price rolls were full size. Kelp salad was plentiful and tasty. If I come back to Charleston, I will definitely eat here again."
Dined on 04/15/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 27 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The waiter asked us if we

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The waiter asked us if we would like sparkling water or ice water as if both were complimentary. Not knowing there was a $6 charge for sparkling water because this is complimentary at a lot of restaurants, we chose sparkling. After receiving the bill, we were astounded at the increase in charge. This should have been made known to us that sparkling water was a beverage and not included with the meal. We had good sushi and hate that this unexplained and surprising charge made our experience unpleasant. We would like to go back and enjoy the sushi, but this may impact our decision."
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 28 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great, great place!!! Very

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great, great place!!! Very high attention to service. Walked away to the ladies room --owner/manager refolded my napkin. Classy!"
Dined on 04/17/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, romantic, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 29 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

We went to O-Ku because we

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We went to O-Ku because we had heard that the food is excellent (which it was), but what we didn't know was that on Saturday nights the restaurant is a major party scene with a DJ and dancing. Even before the dancing started, the combination of a noisy crowd and extremely loud music made any conversation impossible. And we ended up feeling rushed because they needed to move our table to make room for the dancing. Our waitress was very nice, but seemed somewhat overwhelmed by the crush. We got the wrong appetizer, it took a long time to get the right one, and then both showed up on our bill. Again, we enjoyed the food but strongly advise calling ahead to see whether it's a party night, unless that's what you're looking for."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 30 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Apps were great, sashimi was

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Apps were great, sashimi was awesome, sushi rolls were just ok. Overall we loved the place and would go back."
Dined on 04/05/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 31 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A wonderful restaurant with

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"A wonderful restaurant with a friendly staff. Thank you for a delicious dinner."
Dined on 03/24/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, notable wine list
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 32 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

An excellent and creative

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"An excellent and creative interpretation of sushi and other Japanese cuisine. Service by Chris was excellent. An enjoyable evening."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 33 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Fabulous experience. Our waiter

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Fabulous experience. Our waiter John was superb! We celebrated a birthday and they were fantastic!!"
Dined on 03/29/2013
 2008
Special Features: special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 34 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Delicious

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Best sushi in town! A must when visiting Charleston."
Dined on 03/31/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for lunch, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 35 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We had a great time. Our food

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We had a great time. Our food was delicious and fresh. We will be back."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 36 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The staff went out of their

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The staff went out of their way to give us great service. It was a special occasion, and they were attentive and brought us drinks and a dessert for the birthday girl, at no charge. Amazing service and the food was outstanding!"
Dined on 03/21/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 37 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Best sushi we have ever had! Delicious! Service seemed alittle slow for how busy it was. Over all a great night. Will and have recommend to friends."
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 38 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, romantic, late-night find, notable wine list, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 39 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food and service were spectacular!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food and service were spectacular! Kimball always makes sure we are taken care of and is a great asset to O-Ku!"
Dined on 03/10/2013
 2006
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 40 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Wish O-Ku could keep a reservation

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was fantastic, along with the extensive speciality drinks made for a wonderful evening..only problem is that we made a reservation for 715 and arrived early, say 655, we did not sit down after 8 which is unacceptable in my book, not sure if I will ever go back again"
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 41 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Place to go if you want to

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Place to go if you want to see and be seen."
Dined on 03/08/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 42 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Best sushi in town

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was terrific with one exception. My miso soup was not particularly hot. That's it. Everything else was first rate. Our server was outstanding."
Dined on 03/07/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 43 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Always great service and great

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Always great service and great food - a sure bet"
Dined on 02/27/2013
 2009
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, great for lunch, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 44 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I've been to O-Ku a couple

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I've been to O-Ku a couple of times and it remains one of my favorite sushi places. It is always fresh and they put out some creative dishes as well as your traditional rolls. The service is great. We had a sushi virgin with us and our waitress was helpful in pointing her in the right direction. The owner is always bopping around, making sure diners are having the best experience they can. Highly recommended, the only Japanese restaurant I'd go to in Charleston."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 45 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great food and service. Will

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great food and service. Will be going back."
Dined on 03/01/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, special occasion, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 46 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Best sushi hands down. I love

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Best sushi hands down. I love their happy hour. Great drinks. Try the salmon lemon roll or the potato role. Can't go wrong with either. My dad loved the salmon role and he doesn't even like salmon."
Dined on 03/01/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find, special occasion, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 47 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The best sushi restaurant

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The best sushi restaurant in Charleston, South Carolina. Everything was excellent beginning from service to the food."
Dined on 02/20/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 48 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

DELICIOUS BUT NOISY

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"THE AMBIANCE, SUSHI, APPETIZERS WINE LIST AND SERVICE WERE OUTSTANDING, HOWEVER THE HIGH DECIBEL NOISE LEVEL GREATLY
EXCEEDED AN ENERGETIC BUZ. IT WAS SO LOUD WE COULD NOT COMFORTABLY CONVERSE WITH OUR GUESTS. THE LOUD NOISE
RUINED AN OTHERWISE WONDERFUL EVENING DINING EXPERIENCE.
"
Dined on 02/15/2013
 2011
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 49 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

One of our favorite restaurants.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"One of our favorite restaurants. The food, especially the sushi, is great. The ambiance and decor are also outstanding."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 50 for O-Ku
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great Japanese!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My husband and I decided to try O-Ku for Valentine's Day. Their dress code says "Business Casual", but I'm glad we both decided to wear nice jeans and less business-like clothes, because O-Ku seems to draw a fairly young college crowd -- at least mid-week; and scruffy jeans and t-shirts were the standard uniform. The lighting is very dim, so bring a flashlight or something to read the menu if your eyes are not the best. The staff was very personable, knowledgable, and very good. Their recommendations for drinks and food were spot-on. The food was wonderful; never had seaweed salad before and really liked it. This place is definitely a do-over."
Dined on 02/13/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
1 2 next>>