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Gas Station Sushi Surprise: Michelin-Worthy Bites?
8 Mar
Summary
- A BP gas station in Apex, NC, houses a highly-rated sushi restaurant.
- Chef Wanchalerm Owattragool opened Akami Sushi Bar in 2021.
- The restaurant hosts culinary events like a 180-pound bluefin tuna breakdown.

Nestled within a BP gas station in Apex, North Carolina, Akami Sushi Bar has defied expectations since its opening in 2021. Chef-owner Wanchalerm Owattragool, leveraging two decades of sushi expertise, established this unique establishment within a former Subway space. The restaurant, affectionately nicknamed 'Gas Station Sushi,' offers a menu that blends traditional and modern Japanese culinary techniques.
Akami features a diverse selection, from appetizers and house rolls to nigiri and sashimi. Signature creations like the 'Land & Sea' roll, featuring Wagyu beef and caviar, and 'Voodoo' with multiple fish types, showcase the chef's innovative approach. Japanese beers, sakes, wine, and plum liqueur complement the dining experience.
The restaurant is not just about daily dining; it also hosts engaging culinary events. Attendees have witnessed chef Owattragool break down a massive 180-pound bluefin tuna, learning about the fish and preparation methods. The venue also offers omakase dinners, where the chef curates multi-course meals based on seasonal availability and ingredient quality.
With a 4.6-star rating on Yelp, Akami Sushi Bar garners praise for its incredible dishes and fantastic atmosphere, proving that exceptional cuisine can be found in the most unexpected places. Customers even keep their own chopsticks on-site, highlighting the restaurant's dedicated clientele.




