Elena James at 8551 Connecticut Avenue in Chevy Chase has announced a partnership with Chef Sergii Mainyi to introduce his new Japanese and sushi concept, Ro Sushi and Co, opening in mid-October 2025.
The café space at Elena James will host Ro Sushi and Co, while Elena James’ breakfast, lunch, and dinner service will continue in the main dining room. Ro Sushi and Co will feature sushi rolls, bowls, bento boxes, and other Japanese favorites, led by Chef Mainyi, who brings over 15 years of experience in Japanese cuisine and sushi in the D.C. area.
According to Elena James, “As part of this collaboration, co-owners Chef Colin McClimans and Danilo Simic (also co-owners of acclaimed D.C. restaurants Opal and Nina May) will relocate all Elena James operations to the main dining room. Guests will continue to enjoy Elena James’ signature offerings: a welcoming breakfast café atmosphere in the morning, followed by full-service lunch and dinner service.
Ro Sushi and Co, set to debut in mid-October 2025, will feature a carefully curated menu of signature sushi rolls, sushi bowls, bento boxes, and beloved Japanese favorites. The name “Ro” comes from the Japanese word 路, meaning “path” or “route,” reflecting the thoughtful journey of each dish—from ingredient sourcing to preparation, presentation, and guest experience.
Leading the kitchen at Ro Sushi and Co is Chef/Co-Owner Sergii Mainyi, who has honed his craft in Japanese cuisine and sushi for over 15 years in the Washington, D.C. area. Known for his classical training and dedication to authentic technique, Chef Mainyi brings both expertise in pristine ingredient sourcing and creativity to this new concept, aligning with the values Chef Colin McClimans and Danilo Simic bring to all of their restaurants.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Sergeii and Ro Sushi and Co to our restaurant group,” said co-owner Danilo Simic. “This partnership allows us to continue offering our neighborhood guests something fresh and exciting, while keeping Elena James true to its roots as a gathering place for every part of the day.”
Ro Sushi and Co will officially open to guests in mid-October, with dine-in service and takeout options available.”
