Otani Japanese Restaurant in Mayfield Heights to Close

Otani Japanese Restaurant will close in March after nearly 50 years in business Credit: Courtesy Otani

It was at Otani Japanese Restaurant that most Northeast Ohioans got their first taste of sushi and Japanese cuisine.

Opened in 1978 by Kazushige Honda, the restaurant continued on its path to longevity after Janet and Heinz Lee came aboard in 1985 following Honda’s retirement.

Now, it’s time for Janet Lee to retire as well.

“It’s with great appreciation and many emotions, that we announce the retirement of Janet Yee and the closing of Otani Japanese Restaurant in Mayfield Heights,” the restaurant shared in an announcement this week.

“It’s been quite a journey. Along the way, we’ve had the privilege to be a part of the Cleveland community, to open additional restaurants, and most importantly, to serve our cherished customers. We can’t fully express our deep appreciation toward our many customers, many of whom we consider to be family, and we are forever grateful to our customers and staff, past and present. The fond memories of our times together will follow us into retirement.”

Otani’s last day of business will be March 16.

The Otani ramen shops, of which Janet Lee is an investor, will remain open.

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