FOLLOWUP: Mashiko’s founder says sale fell through

(WSB photo, last month)

Almost two weeks ago, when contacted by WSB to ask about reports the restaurant had been sold, Mashiko founder Hajime Sato confirmed it. The restaurant subsequently was closed for several days; we never heard from the new owners, but a longtime employee said in a comment that they expected to reopen last week, and that appeared to have happened, at least when we passed by one night to look. Then tonight, via the same messaging channel we used to contact Sato, we received this message:

Due to issues beyond my control, the sale of Mashiko that I announced last week did not occur. I am still the owner of Mashiko. The restaurant is still for sale, and I hope to have happier news to share about that soon. In the meantime, I am back to working most nights. Mariah and Brandon are still here too, so be sure to stop in for the same amazing sustainable sushi you have come to expect from us!

My family is still planning to move as soon as possible, although things have now been very delayed by these circumstances.

Please accept my thanks to the community for the kind words and support during this extremely difficult time.

Su March 13, 2019 (9:48 am)

I hope his family will fare alright despite the sale not happening.

MSea March 13, 2019 (10:02 am)

Mr. Sato – Wishing the best for you and your family. I know the last article mentioned that your wife is facing health issues and this is the reason for your sale. Please know that you have brought my friends and me some great memories with your warm hospitality and great food. I hope that a sale comes through soon so that you can continue with your plans, but you and your family will be missed.

Gary R March 13, 2019 (1:38 pm)

Wishing all the best to Mr. Sato and his family. What a great treasure in the community.Where can one find out more about sale information. I may know an interested party. Thanks.

E March 13, 2019 (8:30 pm)

Mr. Sato I’m so sorry the sale didn’t work out. Hopefully another opportunity will come along. Your restaurant has been one of my favorites for years. Positive thoughts for your wife’s recovery.

Eric March 13, 2019 (10:09 pm)

Mashiko has been our family’s favorite and we believe the best sushi restaurant in Seattle for the past 15 years. We have sought out the best in Tokyo and Kyoto , NYC and LA and SF and have always found the nuances of Mashiko food to be at a level above anything else in the Seattle area and on par with famous chefs elsewhere. We hope this Westside asset will survive. Much gratitude and best wishes to Mr Sato and family.

SeaSpade March 13, 2019 (10:13 pm)

One of the original treasures of WS that brought me here. Sorry to hear of the difficult times. Wish I knew how to make sushi as I would love to see this institution remain!