Celebrity Chef Makoto Okuwa to Open Restaurant in Cincinnati

Famed Chef Makoto Okuwa is bringing a new taste of Japan with Suzu, a contemporary Japanese culinary experience that is set to open in Cincinnati’s Madison Square in May 2026.

“Suzu is a celebration of Japanese culture and cuisine, where every detail matters — from the design of the room to the way a single piece of sushi is crafted,” Chef Makoto Okuwa said in a Feb. 12, 2026, press release. “It’s about honoring tradition while creating something vibrant and alive, and it’s unlike anything in the region.”

This blend of tradition and modernity is to be reflected in the interior through design led by John Im of Lovecraft.

The contemporary Japanese restaurant will feature 6,000 square feet of adaptable indoor and outdoor seating that can accommodate more than 200 patrons. 

The sprawling restaurant also features the Tea Room, an intimate private dining room, a craft cocktail bar and Suzunone, an omakase bar where guests can experience authentic Edo-style sushi offerings.

Suzu marks the Japanese-born chef’s first venture in both Cincinnati area and the Midwest as a whole. Okuwa, pupil of Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, has gained international renown for his appearances on “Iron Chef America” as well as a recognition from the James Beard Foundation for Outstanding Contribution. Suzu joins Okuwa’s lineup of concepts in Washington D.C., Vail and Miami.  

The new restaurant will join Alara, Zingaro by Chef Fabio Viviani and the Element Eatery food hall as well as other dining experiences at the Madison Square property.

To stay in touch with Suzu’s progress and opening date, visit thesuzu.com. For more information about Madison Square visit madison-square.com.

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