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Popular sushi restaurant continuously strives for excellence

A La Carte

February 11, 2019

Story By: Adrienne Wilson | Photos by: Kozo Sushi

Spicy Ahi Natto Don ($8.25)

In Japanese, the word kaizen means “continuous improvement.” In the case of culinary establishments, an eatery can refine every aspect of its business, from recipes to customer service. Kozo Sushi is a prime example of this evolution-based concept, having been consistently cultivating its craft since 1972.

To experience the wonder for yourself, try Spicy Ahi Natto Don ($8.25), a donburi that features natto, the “Japanese superfood.” Natto is essentially fermented soybeans, rich in vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber — the nutty-flavored probiotic may decrease consumers’ chances of getting blood clots, strokes and heart attacks. In this dish, natto is coupled with spicy ahi, egg, nori and green onion on top of a bed of rice infused with Kozo Sushi’s distinctive rice vinegar.

Dragon Don ($8.25)

The concept of kaizen even permeates Kozo’s food preparation. Kozo Sushi produces its own rice vinegar, with no MSG, to use in its recipes. This devotion to customer well-being is a commitment, as the eatery aims to always offer the best quality for modest prices. It is clearly an effective strategy as Kozo Sushi now has five locations on Oahu —including a reopened one at Kahala Mall — so one is never too far to fulfill a sushi craving.

Kozo Sushi’s robust menu is incredibly versatile with a myriad of choices. For those who can’t go a meal without chicken, Kozo Sushi offers Fried Chicken Don ($6.99). The don features pieces of crispy fried chicken topped with crunchy green onions and a delicious teriyaki sauce.

Subsequently, if you are a strict vegetarian, Kozo Sushi makes sure you are also well nourished through its innovative Tofu Poke Don ($6.99). The cold savory dish comes with tofu, avocado, cucumber and green onions atop one’s choice of lettuce or white or brown rice. Tofu Poke Don is seasoned with house-made poke sauce, nori and sesame seeds.

Dragon Don ($8.25), a foodie enthusiast favorite, combines green onion, masago, shrimp tempura, spicy sauce, teriyaki sauce, masago and spicy ahi with perfectly crispy strips of juicy shrimp tempura atop rice. After one bite of this dish, it is made instantly clear that Kozo Sushi’s inventive hits can make customers fall in love with the restaurant over and over again.

Honolulu, HI 96816

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