Sushi Sasa Says Goodbye After Twenty Years

While there has been an explosion of new Japanese restaurants in the metro area in recent years, a handful of older spots continued to impress. One of those was Sushi Sasa, the restaurant that Wayne Conwell opened in 2005 at 2401 15th Street, long before that area off Platte Street was a hot spot.

In the 2008 edition of Best of Denver, Sushi Sasa was our pick for Best Sushi Restaurant. "Sushi Sasa seemed perfect the minute it opened. Odd, then, that it seems to only get better," we wrote at the time. "Or maybe not, because chef/owner Wayne Conwell is the sort of person who strives to best even himself."

Over a decade later, in 2019, Sushi Sasa nabbed another Best of Denver honor: Best Sushi Bar. "[Conwell's] attention to detail — the things that turn simplicity into elegance in Japanese cuisine — is still evident, in sushi rice that's just the right amount of sticky while maintaining the integrity of each grain; in delicate cuts of fish carved from fillets to bring out the best texture of each; and in preparations that let the seafood speak for itself rather than drowning out the subtle flavors. Explore the full menu or order omakase (chef's choice) to discover pickled and fermented elements, off-menu seafood and artful presentations," the description reads.

Sushi Sasa has been the site of many memorable meals over the years, but now its run has ended. On December 30, it posted this farewell on its Facebook page:

Dear Guests, Friends, and Family,
It has been an absolute pleasure and honor to lead Sushi Sasa for the past twenty incredible years. While all great things evolve, it’s time to embrace new opportunities. With mixed emotions, we share the decision to complete this beloved chapter.

With the support of so many talented individuals, it has been our privilege to bring exceptional sushi and unforgettable dining experiences to Denver. We are deeply grateful for the loyalty, trust, and memories we’ve created together. Sushi Sasa has been a true labor of love, and we will forever treasure the moments our team has shared with each and every one of you.

Thank you for being an integral part of our journey, for making Sushi Sasa a cherished place, and your support over many years that has meant the world to us!

With heartfelt gratitude,
Wayne Conwell and the entire Sushi Sasa Team

As 2024 comes to a close, this is the latest in a string of longtime eateries to announce its closure. Others include eighteen-year-old Fruition, which will shutter after service on January 12, and Berkeley's Café Brazil, which is ending its run on December 31 after announcing that its lease would not be renewed.

Fans of Sushi Sasa, though, can still get a taste of Conwell's cuisine. He also owns Tai Tai, a Japanese eatery that he opened at 5078 East Hampden Avenue in the Happy Canyon shopping center in 2020.