Opened in June 2025, YUKI brings a new expression of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s culinary vision to the heart of Aspen. Named after the chef’s middle name, Nobuyuki, the restaurant takes inspiration from his travels around the world, pairing Japanese influences with a playful approach to global cuisine. Located above the iconic Belly Up Aspen, the restaurant combines a highly curated menu, an extensive wine program, and mountain views within a sophisticated, contemporary setting.
Sound Investment Audio was responsible for complete audio design and integration throughout YUKI, with one central challenge guiding the project: deliver world-class sound without disrupting the restaurant’s clean, uncluttered aesthetic.
The architecture left little room for technology to become a visual feature. Rather than placing conventional loudspeakers prominently throughout the dining room, the system was carefully integrated into the walls and ceilings, allowing the equipment to largely disappear from view. Achieving that level of discretion required the audio design to work within several architectural constraints while still providing the coverage and performance expected from a Sound Investment system.
A combination of James Loudspeaker, Sonance, Bag End, and Martin Audio products was selected to address the needs of different areas throughout the restaurant. Funktion-One amplification powers the system, while Q-SYS provides centralized processing and control for reliable day-to-day operation.
The result is an audio system designed around the room rather than imposed upon it. Guests can move through YUKI without encountering speakers competing with the architecture, artwork, or views, yet the sound remains consistent throughout the space.
That balance is particularly important in a restaurant where precision extends well beyond the kitchen. From Chef Nobu’s globally inspired menu to the restaurant’s dedicated sommelier program and carefully considered interiors, every component contributes to the character of the destination. The audio needed to uphold that same standard.
At YUKI, the technical complexity stays behind the scenes. Sound Investment Audio delivered a system that maintains the visual simplicity of the restaurant while providing the performance, coverage, and control expected from one of Aspen’s distinctive new dining destinations.
