OTARU

Q: Does OTARU offer gift cards?

OTARU does offer gift cards which you can purchase here .

4.8

301 Reviews

$50 and over

Creative Japanese

Make a reservation

2 people

Mar 15, 2025

11:00 PM

Booked 34 times today

Experiences are available.

About this restaurant

Good for special occasions
Great for scenic views
Romantic

Step into the world of OTARU, an enchanting Japanese dining haven nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh. Immerse yourself in a culinary odyssey that seamlessly blends tradition, innovation, and the exquisite artistry of Japanese gastronomy. Our goal at OTARU is to transport you to the bustling streets of Tokyo, offering an extraordinary dining experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
OTARU is more than just a menu; it is a haven where the warmth of Japanese hospitality converges with contemporary elegance. Thoughtfully designed to reflect the minimalist beauty of Japan, our space invites you to indulge in intimate dinners, lively gatherings, and special occasions. Whether you're a seasoned sushi enthusiast or a newcomer to Japanese cuisine, we extend an invitation to embark on a gastronomic adventure with us—a journey where every bite narrates a tale of dedication, culture, and a profound love for exceptional food. Visit OTARU and uncover the soul of Japan through the art of dining.

Dining areas

Additional information

Location
1200 Grandview Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15211-1239
Phone number
(412) 586-5485
Price
$50 and over
Cuisines
Creative Japanese, Kyoto-style, Sushi
Hours of operation
Mon–Thu, Sun 4:00 pm–10:00 pm Fri, Sat 4:00 pm–11:00 pm
Dress code
Business Casual
Parking details
Private Lot
Payment options
AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa

Gift card

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Experiences

Otaru Omakase
$168.00 per person
Multiple dates available
In-House reservations only Omakase experience. Join us for an exclusive 16-course omakase journey that showcases the finest of Japanese culinary artistry. Every Thursday, we present a thoughtfully curated selection, from exquisite starters to unforgettable desserts, with only 10 seats available each evening. We source the freshest fish directly from Japan, arriving every Thursday morning, ensuring the highest quality and most authentic flavors. Our chefs delight in featuring rare and unique varieties of fish, some of which are not available on the menu—adding a touch of surprise to each course. This Thursday-only experience is designed for those who seek something truly special. Call us on 412-586-5485 to reserve your night!

Offers

BAR-ONLY Happy Hour
Multiple dates available
Sun - Wed - 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Join us every Sunday through Thursday from 4:00 to 6:00pm for the BAR-ONLY Happy Hour! Enjoy 50% for all cocktails, glass wine and beers. Bring your friends and make the most of your evenings with us!

What 301 people are saying

OTARU reviews from people who’ve dined at this restaurant. Based on recent rating.

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8

4.8 based on recent ratings

4.8Food
4.8Service
4.8Ambience
4.4Value

Noise • Moderate

Loved For

Pittsburgh / Western PA
Romantic
Pittsburgh / Western PA
Great for scenic views
Pittsburgh
Romantic
Pittsburgh
Great for scenic views

Review summary

AI-generated from verified diner reviews

OTARU offers a "stunning view" of Pittsburgh, with "exceptional" sushi and "attentive" service. Guests rave about the "Otaru Experience" and the "freshness" of the fish. The ambiance is "welcoming," and the "creative" menu delights diners. While some find the prices high, the "quality" and "presentation" make it worthwhile.

301 Reviews

D
Darlene VIP
Pittsburgh8 reviews
5.0
Dined 1 day ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Delicious! Recommended from @anaeatspittsburgh and it did not disappoint! Sushi was incredible! Vote was awesome! Martinis were perfect! Parking was easy! I’d go back in a heartbeat!
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H
Helene VIP
Pittsburgh15 reviews
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Great food- fabulous view- service excellent- sushi very good
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R
Ron
Pittsburgh4 reviews
3.0
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 3
2. Food 3
3. Service 4
4. Ambience 3
Staff was engaging, friendly and true to Pittsburgh. Quality of sushi was better than what’s typically available in Pittsburgh but falls short if comparing to California, Manhattan and Florida. Pricing was fair. Saw a lot of diners leaving reviews that price was high and we did not see that. 300.00 for apps and a big array of sushi, including hand rolls (unique presentation), nigiri and sashimi and 5 cocktails. Presentation was better than most Pittsburgh establishments and on par with Umi. (Big burrito group). Left comfortably satisfied. Many reviews mentioned leaving hungry but an upscale sushi restaurant is not designed to be all You can eat. Overall it’s worth the visit just keep expectations in line with your level of experience for Japanese cuisine.
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N
Neil
Pittsburgh1 review
5.0
Dined 2 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
We were so impressed with the variety of dishes in the Otaru experience. Each course was colorful and delicious, ranging from sashimi in broth to a cooked entree and the most simplistic yet flavorful nigri. The cuts of fish were generous and balanced delicately, no need for soy/wasabi as with other sushi restaurants. The service was also outstanding, our server Garrett, helped interpret the menu and made excellent suggestions while making us comfortable to ask clarifying questions. All in all, a wonderful experience. We will definitely be back again.
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N
Nhu-An
Pittsburgh2 reviews
5.0
Dined 3 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
My wife and I had the omakase. We were the only 2 enjoying it this evening and it was amazing. Our food fairy, Angela, was very knowledgeable of all the food and sake we were consuming. She provided a wonderful experience to go along with chief Allen’s beautifully prepared dishes. Chief Allen’s attention to detail and personal attention made the evening unforgettable. Some words to describe the omakase: Incredible Amazing Delicious Personal 10 out of 10. Would certainly go back again !
1 person found this helpful
OT
OpenTable Diner
Pittsburgh1 review
5.0
Dined 7 days ago
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
EVERYTHING WAS GREAT! Angela was super awesome and helpful. 10/10 would recommend and go again.
1 person found this helpful
OT
OpenTable Diner
Pittsburgh1 review
5.0
Dined on March 8, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 4
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Angela was a wonderful server! She was sweet, made suggestions and very attentive. Gorgeous views and fast service!
1 person found this helpful
A
April
Pittsburgh7 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 7, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
My husband and I did the Omakase experience and it was hands down the absolute BEST Omakase we have ever had! The food was next level with the most incredible cuts of fish and other seafood, the service was stellar and the atmosphere amazing! We will be back for another Omakase and to just dine off their regular menu!
1 person found this helpful
A
Andrew
Pittsburgh1 review
5.0
Dined on March 7, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 5
Probably the best meal of my life. Angela was a great server along with Noah, and Allan and team made the most delectable bites for each course of the special Thursday Omakase meal. I look forward to coming back to try other options but will definitely be trying the Thursday Omakase again!!! Shout out to Andrew and James, Omakase OGs and the special extra course in honor of them. They were great to chat with and shared their past experiences. The virgin beverage I had was just as good as the courses and paired nicely.
1 person found this helpful
C
Cheryl VIP
Pittsburgh9 reviews
5.0
Dined on March 7, 2025
1. Overall 5
2. Food 5
3. Service 5
4. Ambience 4
We enjoyed the 16-course Omakase dinner this evening. Chef Adam created exquisite tastings that were as stunning as they were delicious. The attention to detail is impressive (the oyster dish was finished with a spraying of 14kt gold dust- swoon) Angela, our server, was very personable and extremely knowledgeable about each course and every sake that was experienced. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. You will not be disappointed... I highly recommend it.
1 person found this helpful

FAQs

OTARU is rated 4.8 stars by 301 OpenTable diners.

OTARU does offer gift cards which you can purchase here.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.