Sushi Fukami Opens in Downtown Portland, Showcasing Chef Cody Auger's Omakase Vision

Sushi Fukami, an intimate eight-seat omakase sushi bar, officially opens in downtown Portland on September 18, led by the acclaimed sushi chef Cody Auger. This marks a significant milestone for Auger, who has been working towards this goal for nearly a decade. Known for his role in popularizing Edomae-style sushi in Portland, Auger co-founded the highly regarded omakase restaurant Nimblefish and has a rich history in the local sushi scene.

The concept for Sushi Fukami has evolved over the years, originating from Auger's earlier work at the Pearl District's Hokusei and later as a pop-up in 2017. His vision for Fukami has always centered on offering a refined experience with a focus on niche fish and composed dishes, setting it apart from conventional sushi offerings. The restaurant's design features low-hanging hemlock wood beams and navy blue walls, creating a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.

As the sole chef at the counter, Auger will showcase his culinary expertise through a menu that includes unique items such as various types of uni, monkfish liver, and Hokkaido kinki, alongside shellfish and squid. The full kitchen allows for a diverse range of dishes, including yakimono cooked over a charcoal grill. This approach enables Auger to express his creativity and passion for sushi in a way that is both personal and innovative.

Fukami's omakase experience is priced at $195 per person, reflecting the quality and uniqueness of the offerings. In contrast, Auger's other restaurant, Nimblefish, maintains a more accessible omakase at $125 per person. Auger emphasizes that the dining experience at Fukami is tailored for sushi lovers, with a menu that features more composed dishes and a greater variety of nigiri than what is typically offered at Nimblefish.

The restaurant is already fully booked for its opening, highlighting the anticipation surrounding Auger's return to the sushi scene. Reservations for future dates will be available through Opentable, with updates shared on Sushi Fukami's Instagram. As Auger prepares to embark on this new chapter, he expresses excitement about returning to the kitchen and crafting a menu that reflects the changing seasons and his culinary journey.