A new Japanese restaurant with a big dose of authenticity has opened in historic downtown Plano. Called Ebesu, it's at 1007 E. 15th St., in what used to be Scrubtastic, a medical supplies store that moved in 2017.

Ebesu, which a release says is named for the Japanese god of fishermen and luck, is from Tetsuya Nakao, CEO of Tokyo-based restaurant group DRC Co., where he owns seven restaurants. But this represents his first restaurant in America.

A spokesperson says that the driving force behind the opening is the relocation of Toyota's headquarters to Plano, as well as the opportunity to bring a Japanese restaurant with staff and chef from Japan. That sets it apart from most Japanese and sushi restaurants in the Dallas area, with only a few exceptions, such as Tei An, the acclaimed restaurant at One Arts Plaza, enjoying Japanese ownership.

The official name is Ebesu Sushi & Robata, meaning that there's not only sushi, which the release says will be impeccably sourced, but also traditional robata-grilled meats, not to mention innovative interpretations of Japanese dishes prepared with European technique and presented with a unique flair.

A full bar will include a selection of sake and Japanese soju. Entree prices are in the $40 range, which the release says will bring a distinctive, more upscale dining option to the area.

Nakao says in a statement that downtown Plano is a beautiful, vibrant area. "We look forward to offering guests a unique, elevated experience, with delicious, impeccably sourced ingredients presented in a style all our own, Ebesu style," he says.

Signature dishes include chicken kari-kari kara-age (Japanese style chicken nuggets, Yuzu kosho, aioli sauce); and robata grilled Maine lobster with uni fettuccini, haricot verts, zucchini, and roasted tomato.

They're flying in seasonal specials and seafood delicacies twice a week from fish markets in Japan.

Chef Tsukasa is a native of Japan who has worked at restaurants in Washington, D.C. "I'm excited for our customers to discover the flavors and techniques I am passionate about," he says.

The design is by a notable name: Shigeru Sato of Design Label Knot, who worked on Gonpachi in Tokyo, which was the inspiration for the famous restaurant scene in the Quentin Tarantino movie Kill Bill Vol. 1.

They're doing a soft opening from July 16-20 July 15-17 with 20 percent off all orders. A grand opening party on July 21 will feature signature dishes, robata-grilled items, and sushi, as well as beer, wine, and sake. Tickets are $35 and available at Eventbrite.