Award-winning restaurant Uchi Is Opening in Philly and Will Host Preview Dinners With Vernick Fish and River Twice
Philly food lovers will soon get a taste of Uchi, the acclaimed Austin-based, James Beard Award–winning restaurant, ahead of its highly anticipated debut in Rittenhouse this fall. The restaurant, founded by celebrated chef Tyson Cole, will host two special preview dinners in October in collaboration with some of Philadelphia’s top culinary talents.
The first preview will take place at Vernick Fish, located in the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center, on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. Cole will team up with Chef Greg Vernick, himself a James Beard Award winner, to present a five-course, family-style menu highlighting signature dishes from both kitchens.
The evening begins with a specialty Uchi cocktail, followed by Vernick Fish’s renowned bread service, oysters and crudo, pasta and octopus, and a series of entrees and desserts created collaboratively by the two teams.
“I’ve admired Chef Tyson for years, having experienced his restaurants in Austin, where the quality of fish and the overall experience left a lasting impression,” said Vernick. “To now welcome him into our kitchen and cook alongside him as he and the Uchi team prepare for their opening feels special. This dinner is about celebrating their success so far and all that lies ahead for them here.”
Reservations open on Tuesday, September 9 at 9 a.m. via the Vernick Fish website. Tickets are $190+ per person, with seatings available between 5 and 10 p.m.
Later in the month, Uchi will join forces with Chef Randy Rucker of River Twice on East Passyunk for a second preview dinner on Wednesday, October 22, Details of this intimate collaboration will be announced soon.
Founded in Austin, Texas, Uchi has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of Japanese cuisine with inventive flavor combinations and the highest quality ingredients. The Philadelphia location will open this fall at 1620 Sansom Street, inside the Josephine residential building in Rittenhouse. An official opening is slated for November 2025.
“Partnering with a chef and team the caliber of Greg Vernick and Vernick Fish is the perfect way for us to introduce Uchi to Philly,” said Cole. “The team has been so welcoming, and we are excited to share this dinner with our new Philly neighbors.”
