Kase X Noko

From the owners of Asian-inspired, wood-fired restaurant Noko, comes sister restaurant Kase x Noko, an approachable, 14-seat omakase and four-seat Japanese cocktail bar (the smallest bar in Nashville and Tennessee) tucked away in East Nashville’s Eastwood neighborhood. Unlike anything else in the region, Kase’s 14-course tasting menu is led by Chef Owner Dung “Junior” Vo and features a rotating selection of handcrafted nigiri and hand rolls with seafood flown in daily from around the world (Japan, Hawaii, Spain, New Zealand, etc.).

In collaboration with Nashville pottery studio Zane Ceramics, the restaurant’s plateware is designed and glazed by Vo himself. Before or after dining at Kase, guests can grab a drink at the intimate four-seat cocktail bar inspired by Tokyo’s cocktail lounges of yesteryear. The Kase bar offers a collection of top-notch whiskey and sake alongside a nonalcoholic veverage program and Japanese-inspired cocktails including Princess Ichigo, Kyoto Garden, and Letter from the Emperor.

Designed by The Restaurant Studio, the intimate omakase atmosphere embodies the philosophy of wabi-sabi and the rich culture of Japan with a touch of timeless opulence. The space is serene and inviting as it merges modern sophistication with dark and moody, natural elements throughout by utilizing layered textures, handmade ceramic tiles, and locally sourced woods.

Art plays a large role in the restaurant’s design with classic Gyotaku (Japanese method of printing fish) art by Dwight Hwang lining the walls, alongside vintage film photography showcasing Tokyo in the 1970s. Beyond the plate and the walls, Kase continues the Noko team’s mission by offering an extensive employee betterment program to all staff featuring a yearly travel stipend, access to online therapists, a paid gym/yoga membership, health insurance, and more.