New Oakland restaurant Gamsa Sushi to serve omakase in Rockridge

A new Japanese spot for omakase is coming to Oakland’s Rockridge neighborhood.

Gamsa Sushi is taking over the spot left by the 34-year-old Uzen Japanese Cuisine earlier this year, at 5415 College Ave., on a food-rich block that also has Belotti Ristorante e Bottega and Kitchen Story. The placeholder website says to expect it opening as soon as “this fall.”

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A recent peek through the door revealed a stylish but minimal space with wood accents, at least a half-dozen tables, sushi-bar seating and a high ceiling with a bright skylight. (There were also two blowtorches, one heavy-duty, though it’s unknown whether that’s for renovations or fish torching.)

The person running the kitchen at Gamsa Sushi is Dahan Kim, a chef who’s spent time at the Michelin-recognized Sushi Ran in Sausalito. For years he’s also worked as a private chef, creating omakase experiences for clients at homes throughout Northern California (“homakase”). His catering website lists dishes like miso black cod, truffle tuna tartare, wagyu-beef nigiri and “saffron-risotto sushi.”

The restaurant will offer both omakase and a-la-carte ordering and will highlight seasonal ingredients and fish selections. It has an active license to serve beer and wine.

The Rockridge Voice reports that Gamsa might not be strictly Japanese.

“The name Gamsa comes from the Korean word for ‘thanks’ or ‘gratitude,’” the media site writes. “As a Korean chef, (Kim) said he wanted the name to reflect his background, although the food will remain focused on Japanese cuisine, perhaps with a few Korean-influenced dishes.”

Details: Opening late 2026 at 5415 College Ave., Oakland; gamsasushi.com, instagram.com/gamsasushi.