Wave Sushi, the popular Mount Dora-based restaurant, has opened a new location in Maitland, offering a fresh, fast-casual take on its creative sushi creations. The new spot, part of the Maitland Social collective, brings the playful fusion of sushi to a new audience, including loyal fans who can now enjoy Wave’s offerings closer to home.
Jonathan McKinney, owner of Wave, credits the restaurant’s viral success to its unique and eye-catching menu. From sushi burgers and tacos to pop culture-inspired rolls like one designed to look like Baby Yoda, Wave has built a reputation for fun, Instagram-worthy dishes. “We’re not for everybody,” McKinney admitted, but his team has certainly tapped into what excites food lovers and brings them in the door.
The Maitland location, which opened in July, offers a relaxed, colorful atmosphere. McKinney, who got his start at his family’s hibachi restaurant Kiku in Eustis, has always had a creative streak. “I started making menus, getting a little creative,” he explained. “I showed them to my dad — things like sushi burritos, sushi doughnuts. It’s what was getting attention as Instagram became a thing.”
While the Mount Dora location is known for hibachi and other traditional dishes, the Maitland outpost focuses on fun fusion items. Some standout dishes include the Krab Rangoon Fritters ($10), a popular starter that’s likely to evolve into a version inspired by the Mount Dora restaurant’s famous Krab Rangoon Mozzarella Sticks. The restaurant also serves Togarashi-tossed sushi fries ($13.50), topped with spicy krab, scallions, and eel sauce, which diners are often seen photographing before digging in.
For those seeking fresh sushi, Wave offers vibrant poke bowls and rolls, including the Slammin’ Salmon burrito ($18), a hearty option perfect for sharing. The Poke Pizza slice ($20), with its tuna-stuffed crust, was another crowd favorite, though McKinney recommends ordering it fried for the best experience.
Despite the trendy, eye-catching menu, Wave also serves simpler, satisfying rolls. The Rainbow roll ($14) featured fresh fish and a beautiful presentation, while diners can also enjoy canned sake for a fun and casual experience.
At Wave Sushi, creativity and community go hand in hand. McKinney said the Maitland menu has already been shaped by feedback from local customers. Whether diners are looking for something familiar or a more experimental take on sushi, Wave continues to push the boundaries of what sushi can be.
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