Despite sluggish sales, Harold Fields, owner of Umami Kushi credits his innovative business strategy as a buffer against hard times but he is still calling out for community support.

By Omari Salisbury - #SupportBlackBusiness

Nestled in the heart of Seattle's Rainier Beach neighborhood, Umami Kushi, owned by Harold Fields, is a culinary gem that tantalizes taste buds and warms hearts. This unique café isn't just another eatery; it's the only Black-owned anime cafe in Seattle and the only cafe that focuses on Okazu Pan, which is a Japanese-style grab-and-go pastry. Fields' goal is to create a grab-and-go food model that uses Japanese-inspired ingredients as well as ingredients that he has worked with in his travels. It's a vibrant hub where a fusion of Japanese and global flavors come alive, reflecting Harold's rich culinary journey and innovative spirit.

A Business Model as Dynamic as the Menu

Umami Kushi's business model is a reflection of Harold's ingenuity and adaptability. "My model is an organically flexible business model that I can navigate and move in many different directions," he explained. This flexibility allows him to constantly evolve, experiment, and surprise his customers with new and exciting culinary creations. When I asked him about the longevity of Umami Kushi, Harold explained that his unique business model has allowed him to stay in business for five years and run his production kitchen for ten years.

Harold Fields speaks with Converge Media’s Chief Storyteller Winfield Ezell Jr. and Besa Gordon, host of Back2Besa on FOX13 Seattle and FOX Soul.

The Foot Traffic Challenge and a Plea for City Support

While Umami Kushi enjoys a loyal following, Harold acknowledges the ongoing challenge of attracting consistent foot traffic. He believes the city could do more to support small businesses like his, particularly those in diverse neighborhoods. "One of the things I think the city should be doing better is marketing and creating this sense of it's okay to travel...There is a myth that Seattle is this massive city and you can't move around for traffic and all these other elements that affect small businesses. You're not marketing the light rail. You're not marketing where the business is or how you can get to the business." Harold's plea highlights what he says is a need for greater city engagement in promoting local businesses and fostering a sense of community and exploration. In our interview, Harold stated that while he has consistent customers, new customers are essential for the sustainability of a small business. He explained that while his unique business model has allowed him to remain successful, increased foot traffic and density would benefit all businesses in the area. Fields believes the city should do more to promote small businesses and get people into the community.

Menu Highlights: A Symphony of Flavors

Umami Kushi's menu is a culinary adventure, with dishes like the best-selling Beef Curry and the tantalizing Jerk Chicken Kimchi Pork Okazu Pans stealing the show. Harold also makes other pastries and even potato chips. Harold's creativity was evident in every dish he described, and his specials and seasonal offerings keeps customers coming back for more.

VIDEO: Besa Gordon spotlighted Umami Kushi on her show Back2Besa on FOX13 Seattle in August of last year.

The Sweet and Savory Return of the Fried Chicken and Beignets

A recent and highly anticipated addition to the menu is the Fried Chicken and Beignets, available on Saturdays and Sundays. "I thought with all the noise around fried chicken and waffles, we always had beignets...It just made sense to do something with the beignets. It's a little bit different than you see everywhere else," Harold explained. This dish perfectly exemplifies Harold's commitment to quality and innovation. The chicken is crispy and flavorful, while the beignets are light, airy, and dusted with powdered sugar. The combination of savory and sweet is simply irresistible. Fields explained that the beignets and fried chicken are only available on Saturdays and Sundays because they are difficult to cook and he wants to ensure that they are always fresh.

"I thought with all the noise around fried chicken and waffles, we always had beignets...It just made sense to do something with the beignets. It's a little bit different than you see everywhere else," Harold Fields

Community at the Heart

After five years in business, Umami Kushi is a cornerstone of the Rainier Beach community. Harold's dedication to his customers shines through in initiatives like Tuesday Half-Off Days, ensuring that his culinary delights are accessible to everyone. Fields started Tuesday Half-Off Days as a way to give back to the community and help people who are struggling with the rising cost of living. He believes that it is a way to reward and excite people about coming to Umami Kushi.

Fields started Tuesday Half-Off Days as a way to give back to the community and help people who are struggling with the rising cost of living.

A Bright Future Flavored with Innovation

Despite the challenges that come with running a small business, Harold remains optimistic and continues to push culinary boundaries. He's always exploring new flavors, techniques, and ways to enhance the Umami Kushi experience. Fields stated that he would love to be in a denser part of the city, but he does what he has to do to survive. He is always adding new specials and flavors and is constantly changing up how he operates his business.

Umami Kushi: A Culinary Destination That Inspires

Umami Kushi is a culinary destination that invites you to explore new flavors, connect with your community, and experience the magic of Harold's culinary vision. Don’t be afraid to travel across the city and check it out! – Umami Kushi is a Buy Black Card business.