Covington, VA (March 24, 2026)— Recently, the city of Covington has witnessed a revitalization of its commercial landscape with the recent launch of two new businesses. Following a month of operations, both Yamato Japanese Steakhouse and O'Reilly Auto Parts have made significant strides, transforming two extensively vacated properties into local hot spots.
Yamato, a well-known name with locations in multiple states, has expanded its reach by opening a new branch in Covington. "[It's] like the same restaurant in different locations," said manager Kitty Jiang. "Like West Virginia, Kentucky, and Virginia." Locals may recall the familiar name from their former location in Lewisburg before planting new roots in Covington and occupying the space in the former Wendy's building at 1310 South Craig Avenue.
Since its opening on February 23rd, Yamato has attracted a steady stream of patrons eager to indulge in sushi rolls and sizzling hibachi dinners. The Journal paid a quick visit there recently, noticing quickly the reimagined structure that has been infused with a vibrant Japanese ambiance. To say we were impressed with the remodeling would be quite the understatement.
The same can be said of the new automotive store resting practically across the street from Yamato. O'Reilly's Auto Parts made its debut on Valentine's Day in the space once occupied by the Kroger store. Enjoying the length and width of what was once a "Kroger Superstore" in the 70's, O'Reilly's has taken full advantage of the sizable building located at 1107 South Craig Avenue.
"We have the space, so we're trying to make this the community go-to," said Store Manager Beth Lewis. "If there's something in inventory that you don't see, let me know and we'll adjust the inventory so that way it is here for you every time you come in."
We were also able to speak with two other employees, as well as District Manager Doug Hood—by phone—during our brief visit to O'Reilly's. Hood stated, "We're excited to be in Covington and being able to service the customers." Part of that service includes free testing on alternators, starters, and batteries, and offering a wide range of automotive parts, tools, accessories, and even a convenient clearance rack to help customers save money.
Both Yamato Japanese Steakhouse and O'Reilly's are open seven days a week, with Yamato's hours being 11:00 a.m.—9:00 p.m. from Monday-Friday, 11:00 a.m.—10:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 12:00 p.m.—9:00 p.m. on Sunday. They can be reached at 540-962-6669.
Meanwhile, O'Reilly's is open from 7:30 a.m.—9:00 p.m. from Monday—Saturday and 9:00 a.m.—8:00 p.m. on Sunday. The main store number is 540-960-5995 and their commercial number for ordering auto parts is 540-5048, which rings directly to Commercial Manager Chase Higgins.
|  | Jay Chen, co-owner, chef, cashier, etc. was preparing sushi during the Journal's visit to Yamato.
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