Seating for Two: Sushi, Joy, and the Kura Way

Sushi is one of those foods you can find just about anywhere, from grocery stores to grab-and-go counters–a quick, easy, and delicious staple in the American food scene.

But its journey here is more fascinating than you might expect. Sushi first gained traction in the states in the early 1900s, though its growth slowed for a time due to shifting cultural relations during and after World War II. It wasn’t until the 1960s, when a small shop in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo began introducing it once again to curious diners that it quickly became a beloved part of American dining culture.

As interest in Japanese cuisine grew, so did the appetite for new and authentic experiences, paving the way for Kura Sushi to bring something truly special to the table.

Kura Sushi originated in Osaka, Japan in 1977. In 2008, Kura Sushi opened its first U.S. location in Irvine, CA. Now, the chain boasts more than 600+ locations in Japan, 50+ in Taiwan, and 82 and growing in the United States.

The original inspiration for Kura was from the founder, Kunihiko Tanaka’s love for making sushi more approachable. Knowing that the introduction of Kaiten, conveyor-belt sushi, made sushi more accessible in Japan, they then adopted the experience here in the U.S.

Kura Sushi employs a Japanese principle called “Muten/ 無点” which loosely translates to “nothing added,” where they ensure that there are no artificial preservatives, or stabilizers, added to their food. They stay true to authentic Japanese flavors, and when they do experiment, it’s through their Kura Reserve menu: where tradition meets creativity. 

With over 100 menu items there is more than enough for guests to choose from but what comes out on top? Their Nigiri–a thin slice of raw fish placed on a small ball of sushi rice, something they’re most proud of and feel best represents their restaurant. But representation is more than the food on the plate, it's the experience you come home with. 

When grabbing sushi, I typically go for the classics: Shrimp Tempura, Spider Roll, Spicy Tuna… you know the ones. But, Kura Sushi put me in a position to try something new, and in my opinion, innovative. From their Seared Salmon with Miso Cream Cheese to their Spicy Popcorn Shrimp Roll, my tastebuds were introduced to new flavor combinations I never would’ve imagined. 

And that’s exactly what Kura Sushi hopes to create, an experience that feels joyful and explorative. Whether you’re trying something new, sticking to your favorites, or waiting for that Bikkura Pon prize, they hope when you are at a Kura, you feel like you’re in Japan. Kura Sushi reminds us that tradition and innovation can share the same table, and that sometimes, the best bites come when you’re willing to try something new.

If there’s a Kura Sushi near you, be sure to stop in and try it for yourself and let us know what you think! With theKura Reserve Experience launching on November 7, featuring Sakura Pork for the very first time, It’s the perfect opportunity to try something new.