SAGE Restaurant Opened in Downtown Columbus

The new dining concept replaced the former Rishi Sushi space on North Third Street.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Dining Out

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a stylized modern dining interior with warm lighting and minimalist wooden fixtures, reflecting a new restaurant concept. — The new restaurant SAGE has opened in downtown Columbus, offering an Asian-inspired menu and interactive social programming in a redesigned space on North Third Street. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Do you prefer visiting restaurants that combine dining with live entertainment and interactive events?

SAGE has opened in the former home of Rishi Sushi at 114 N. Third St. in downtown Columbus. Owner Sudhir Dubey and chef David Kim designed the restaurant to serve as both an Asian-inspired dining destination and an interactive social space.

Why it matters

The founders created the new concept to address a local need for venues that bridge the gap between dining and social activities. By integrating interactive event programming, they aim to foster deeper connections among guests.

Located at 114 N. Third St., the restaurant features a living-room-inspired interior design. The kitchen prepares its signature teriyaki sauce over the course of more than 12 hours.

The players

Sudhir Dubey

He is the owner of SAGE and a long-time local restaurateur who previously founded Rishi Sushi in 2014.

David Kim

He is the chef at SAGE and a collaborator who partnered with Sudhir Dubey to launch both the current and previous restaurant concepts.

The details

The restaurant serves cuisine influenced by Japanese and Korean culinary traditions. The space is intended to foster community, with plans to host a rotating selection of local musicians and artists.

Sudhir Dubey and David Kim opened the original Rishi Sushi in 2014.
SAGE held its grand opening on September 23, 2026.

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Culture Shift

The restaurant follows the experiential dining trend documented by the National Restaurant Association by integrating social programming into its core business model. This movement reflects a broader societal pivot toward venues that prioritize interactive guest engagement over traditional service.

Guests can expect a shift from the previous sushi-focused menu to a broader Asian-inspired selection with a focus on communal social events. Visitors should check the restaurant website regularly for updates on the specific rotating calendar of performers and artists.

The takeaway

SAGE aims to redefine the local dining experience by functioning as a living room for the community. Residents should view the space not just as a restaurant, but as a venue for upcoming arts and music programming.