BIZNOTE: Azuma Sushi’s proprietors to retire, but restaurant will stay open

(WSB file photo)

Eight years ago, we reported on Azuma Sushi in The Junction closing on Sundays after 16 years of being open every single day. Now, owners Harry and Jennifer are going to get a more extensive break – they’re retiring, after running their restaurant for almost a quarter-century! But Azuma Sushi will stay open, and will even bring back sit-down dining. Here’s the announcement sent to us:

Azuma Sushi Transitioning to New Ownership

In some ways, it seems like only yesterday that we first opened our doors. But January 18, 2000 is more than twenty four and a half years ago now! Starting from that very first day, West Seattle has welcomed us with open arms, and we are so grateful to our customers, old and new, for helping us build a successful business, and really, achieve the American dream. You have been with us through so many ups and downs through the years, and we couldn’t have done it without your support. That is especially true of the recent pandemic, which tested all of us so much. It has been such a joy to get to know you, see your kids grow up, and become friends with you. Our family, including our kids (who you may remember helping out from time to time), has so many fond memories of the times we all shared together.

That is why it is bittersweet to announce that we are retiring, and that Azuma Sushi will be transitioning to new ownership. August 30th will be our last day. After that, Azuma will be closed for about a month, until the reopening date of September 28th. Don’t worry, we are keeping things in the Azuma family and will be around in the fall (with reduced hours!) to help with the transition to new ownership. We are excited to see where Jenny (a former waitress that many of you probably remember) will take things and know that you will be excited to once again be able to dine in at Azuma. We hope that you will embrace the new Azuma and that it can continue to be a part of the West Seattle community for many years to come.

Thank you, again, from the bottom of our hearts. It has been a pleasure to serve you, and we will miss seeing you all.

– Harry and Jennifer

Azuma Sushi is at 4533 California SW.

Gay Gabrilska August 12, 2024 (7:08 pm)

Congratulations on a well served retirement. Excited to hear that it is staying in the family.

Lagartija Nick August 12, 2024 (7:10 pm)

Congrats on your retirement, you deserve it! And a big huge YAY for the return of in house dining!

West Seattle Mad Sci Guy August 12, 2024 (7:13 pm)

Happy retirement! Glad sit down is coming back too.

West Marge August 13, 2024 (12:04 am)

I was coming here to state that. I’ve missed their food and friendly service! Take out just isn’t the same
- Rara August 13, 2024 (12:58 pm)
  
  I too am dying to sit in and dine! The experience is where it’s at.

Pegasus Eric August 12, 2024 (7:25 pm)

Wishing y’all the best in retirement, you are both lovely people who I’ve grown to consider great friends, also glad to keep being able to get wonderful Azuma! Cheers to you both!

John August 12, 2024 (7:26 pm)

Lots of restaurants changing hands I hope that the quality stays

Azuma fan August 12, 2024 (7:31 pm)

Enjoy retirement and thank you! We have been coming for over 15 years and never had to place an order during the pandemic since you knew exactly what we wanted the minute we said our name 😆!You will be missed but you deserve it. Continue living the dream! We will be back to check out the new ownership. All the best.

JL August 12, 2024 (7:52 pm)

Food always consistently good! Happy Retirement!!

GHO August 12, 2024 (8:02 pm)

I’m not a customer – sushi’s never been my thing – but I’m encouraged that this is the second (Pizzeria 22 last week) local business that has changed hands to an employee. Very, very cool.

Just wondering August 13, 2024 (8:13 am)

Sushi is not my thing either but I like the chicken katsu and the tempura! The menu has delicious options. Looking forward to dining in also.

Tony August 12, 2024 (9:21 pm)

Harry and Jennifer, You’ll be certainly be missed in our community!!! Thanks for ALL the great food, laughter and kindness that your family has shared with mine since the first day you opened!!!

Kate August 12, 2024 (10:25 pm)

Congrats Harry and Jennifer! We’ll still travel over from Vashon for Azuma and think of you both fondly as we eat our California rolls and saba. Happy retirement and thanks for everything. oxoxo-Chris and Kate

MuffinMama August 13, 2024 (10:03 am)

Congratulations on retirement, as it’s so well deserved! My family and I have so enjoyed Azuma all of these years. Thank you for making it such a warm and wonderful place!

The Higueras August 13, 2024 (6:13 pm)

You have always made us feel like family and now we will miss you like family. Congratulations on retirement, and we are also so excited that Azuma will continue on. –Anne and “Hamachi Kama”