01/11/2026
Aloha Itsumono, Aloha Seattle
When we opened Itsumono more than six years ago, we couldn’t possibly imagine the journey ahead. We opened just a few months before the pandemic reached Seattle, and what followed were some of the most challenging years we’ve experienced as restaurant owners. Simply put, it has been a feat to operate as long as we have.
Through shutdowns, constant change, and an ever-evolving city, we were carried by our community. Our guests, regulars, friends, and staff showed up for us in ways we will never forget. Because of you, Itsumono survived the hardest moments of the pandemic and continued to grow into what it is today.
As time has passed, many of our staff and crew have begun looking toward their next chapters — in their careers and in life. After a great deal of thought and reflection, we as owners have decided that it is time to put Itsumono up for sale and begin a new chapter for the space.
For Chef Sean, this moment is deeply personal. He has missed Hawaiʻi and wishes to return home to be closer to his family, while also exploring new opportunities as a chef. He will continue to be part of the management team, but will not be part of day to day operations. Sean’s last day at Itsumono will be February 14, 2026. Until then, he will continue offering his current menu, and we plan to host one final tasting over Valentine’s Day weekend to celebrate the many years he has owned, led, and created alongside us at Itsumono.
Following February 14, Mike and Hisato will remain to operate Itsumono until a sale is finalized. During this transition, the Itsumono experience will shift toward a more casual drinking and eating experience. There will be a short transition period as we make this change.
This decision was not an easy one. Itsumono has been more than a restaurant to us — it has been a home, a creative outlet, and a place built on resilience and care. We are incredibly proud of what we’ve created and deeply grateful to everyone who has been part of this journey.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for supporting us, believing in us, and dining with us through it all.
Aloha, and thank you, Seattle.
