Interior of a Japanese restaurant with red and black wall mural of a fish, pink cherry blossoms, and waves; wooden tables and booths with brown and maroon seats; hanging lantern-style light fixtures; illuminated signs spelling 'OKA' above the sushi counter; red tile counter with sushi display case.

okatshe allentown

Scope of work

Interior Design

Location

Allentown, PA

A contemporary izakaya bringing Tokyo’s energy to downtown Allentown.

Designed by Saguez & Dash in collaboration with Chef José Garcés, Okatshe is a playful, contemporary interpretation of the Japanese izakaya—bringing the energy, intimacy, and ritual of Tokyo dining culture to downtown Allentown.

Inspired by the vibrant atmosphere of Shinjuku’s Golden Gai, the space unfolds as a layered, immersive experience. Guests arrive through one of two entry points: a bold, graphic façade on Hamilton Street or a concealed passage connected to the Moxy lobby, echoing the element of surprise that defined the original Okatshe concept.

いらっしゃいませ!

Interior of a restaurant with a long dining table set with black plates, clear glasses, and chopsticks on white napkins. There are orange chairs around the table. Decor and signage in Asian style, including hanging lanterns and a mural with fish, with large illuminated signs that read 'OASHE' and signs with Japanese characters and images of noodles.
A narrow street decorated with cherry blossom flowers and red lanterns, with people walking and shops on either side during evening.
Interior of a sushi restaurant with a bar seating area, sushi display counter, and decorative lanterns. Large illuminated sign spelling 'O K A T S E' hangs above.
Overhead view of a red round table set for four with four black bowls, four empty glasses of water, and four white napkins with writing on them.
A chef wearing a white uniform and hat, standing in a dimly lit kitchen or restaurant, preparing food with a bowl and chopsticks.