Uchi and Uchibā set March openings in Plaza Midwood’s Commonwealth, adding two Japanese concepts at once

Two related restaurants are preparing to debut in one Plaza Midwood address

Plaza Midwood is set to add two new Japanese dining concepts in the Commonwealth development at 1720 Commonwealth Ave., where Uchi and its bar-focused sister concept, Uchibā, are scheduled to open later this month. Uchi is slated to open on Tuesday, March 31, bringing a sushi-forward, chef-driven menu to Charlotte alongside a separate rooftop and bar experience under the Uchibā name.

The openings consolidate two distinct formats under one roof: Uchi as the dining-room and sushi-bar destination, and Uchibā as an izakaya-inspired cocktail bar and restaurant positioned for after-work service and rooftop seating.

What is opening, and how the two concepts differ

• Uchi: A Japanese restaurant built around sushi, seasonal dishes, and omakase-style experiences, with a menu known for combining Japanese technique with nontraditional flavor pairings.

• Uchibā: A bar-forward concept whose name translates to “Uchi Bar,” designed around cocktails and shareable plates alongside sushi offerings.

Uchibā’s Charlotte buildout includes a 2,200-square-foot dining room with seating for 38, a 24-seat bar, and a 1,500-square-foot rooftop area with seating for 60.

Who is behind the project

Uchi was founded in 2003 by chef Tyson Cole. Cole later received a James Beard Award for Best Chef, Southwest (2011). The restaurant group behind the concepts, Hai Hospitality, has expanded Uchi beyond its original Austin location, while also growing related concepts under the Uchiko and Uchibā names.

In Charlotte, chef de cuisine Shaun King is set to lead both kitchens. King most recently worked within the Uchi family of restaurants and is expected to oversee menu execution across the paired operations.

Why this matters for Plaza Midwood and the Commonwealth development

The dual opening is positioned as one of the most prominent restaurant launches tied to Commonwealth, a mixed-use project that has been adding new tenants as it comes online. The restaurants are planned within revitalized historic structures on the site, pairing new food-and-beverage uses with adaptive reuse.

For the neighborhood, the arrival of a nationally recognized restaurant group adds another high-capacity dining and nightlife option near established bars and restaurants along Central Avenue and surrounding blocks, with Uchibā’s rooftop element expanding the area’s late-afternoon and evening service mix.

Uchi and Uchibā are both expected to operate from 1720 Commonwealth Ave. in Plaza Midwood, with Uchi opening March 31.

Operational details such as reservation timing, final menus, and service hours are expected to be confirmed as opening day approaches.