Akai Hana Japanese Restaurant, nestled on W Main St in Carrboro, NC, has quickly established itself as a local favorite for sushi lovers. Customers rave about the exceptional quality and freshness of the offerings, with standout dishes like the Vivid Dreams roll earning top praise. Janie Parker, a recent patron, remarked that it is the best sushi she’s ever had, even surpassing her usual haunts. The dinner menu showcases enticing options, including Chicken Teriyaki and Mixed Tempura, while lunch is highlighted by sushi combos like the Chirashi and Salmon Don. Dinette experiences hint at a welcoming vibe, with friendly staff maintaining a chill atmosphere that enhances the dining experience. Grace Voorman appreciated the helpfulness of the staff with recommendations, and Danell Beede echoed this sentiment, noting the restaurant's consistently excellent food and service. While some takeout experiences encountered minor frustrations, the overwhelming sentiment is clear: once the food arrives, delight is guaranteed. Overall, Akai Hana stands as a beacon of Japanese cuisine, combining fresh, flavorful dishes with attentive service. Whether dining in or taking out, this restaurant has made a significant mark in Carrboro’s culinary landscape, inviting you to indulge in an authentic Japanese meal that exceeds expectations.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great tea selection
Has live music
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves comfort food
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Romantic
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Popular with university students
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Children
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Photos
Reviews For Akai Hana Japanese Restaurant
Janie Parker
May 28,2025
I just moved to Carrboro and came to Akai Hana for the sushi burritos. They were good so I came back for some sushi rolls. I typically only go to places with bogo but the sushi seemed decently priced. I ordered maybe 3 rolls, my favorite being the Vivid Dreams roll on special. This is the best sushi I have ever had. I don’t even care that it’s not bogo. I love sushi and I eat it a few times a month and this place blows the others out of the water. Please give Akai Hana a try. You will not be disappointed! Also I wanted to mention that my server, Joey, was excellent. He was so kind and friendly and enthusiastic about my order which was a very pleasant surprise
Caleb Henry
May 20,2025
I always have a great experience here. The staff is very friendly, and the food is consistently excellent. I usually order take-out, but when I occasionally dine-in service has been very prompt. My favorite choice for sushi around in Carrboro/Chapel Hill!
Grace voorman
Apr 10,2025
Ordered multiple rolls of sushi, potato croquette, red bean mochi and cucumber jade roll. The vivid roll was excellent a recommendation from a helpful staff member. Took 30 min during dinner rush for all of the food. Tasted very clean and delicious.
Nancy W
Apr 6,2025
We ordered take out from their website which was a bit frustrating. However once we got our food it was delicious. Had a variety of sushi rolls and they were all quite good. Can't vouch for the inside table service as it was busy so we ate at home.
Danell Beede
Mar 28,2025
We LOVE Akai Hana! The sushi is crazy fresh and straight-up delicious. Quality is top notch. The vibe is chill, welcoming, never rushed. The staff is awesome, and it just feels good to be here. We never get tired of this place- SO SO GOOD!
Ben Brownlee
Mar 28,2025
Great experience! Had the Mixed Tempura, Sushi/Sashimi Combo, Master Roll, Super Whitefish (Escolar) nigiri, Sapporo beer, Mango & Strawberry Mochi Ice Cream, Green Tea Ice Cream, and Ginger Ice Cream. I wish the ginger ice cream had more ginger as its current ginger taste is very subtle, but it was still delicious. Service was great too, and I regret not remembering the waiter's name!
F K
Mar 15,2025
I’ve been looking for a quality sushi place for two years. I know a lot of people love “alphabet letter” Sushi place-I just don’t really care for it. However, the 3 times we have been to Akai Hana I had various rolls and my husband has had sashimi. He said it’s been outstanding and mine has been fabulous as well. Also had the edamame and the ginger salad. I did ask for the edamame to be served warm which they did and it was great.
Idil Baran
Mar 4,2025
This is a great sushi place and a total hidden gem. The freshness of the sushi is similar to those of restaurants where you pay for your sushi. I'm very picky with my tuna and even the tuna was amazing. The restaurant is small and cozy, which makes for the perfect date night or special sushi night. The rest of the food is amazing as well, and the restaurant is always full of amazing scents. This is a must go to if you love good food.
Reviews For Akai Hana Japanese Restaurant