DURING THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE of the daily grind, there’s no better quick stop for a bite to eat than Kozo Sushi. For sushi afficionados and novices alike, the string of eateries surely knows how to serve up a fusion of tasty flavors.
Known for its fast service and fresh, quality fare, Kozo Sushi initially was created to fill the gap between okazuya and pricey sushi bars. The company hails from Osaka, Japan, and since its arrival to Oahu, it has become an island favorite. Today, the sushi haven has five locations on Oahu: Keeaumoku, Moiliili, Kahala Mall, Pearlridge and Pearl City. No matter which venue you decide to stop by, you are guaranteed fresh ingredients and great customer service.
From Kozo Sushi’s immense menu, which includes nigiri, makimono, party plates and more, three of its most popular dishes are Dragon Don ($7.99), Hurricane Maki ($7.99) and Teri Chicken Maki ($6.50). All of these options are ideal for lunch and dinner satisfaction.
If you like your food spicy, try Dragon Don. This dish contains a blend of tempura, spicy ahi and nori surrounded by rice with sesame seeds. The ingredients are mixed with masago and green onions, and topped with spicy and teriyaki sauces.
“Our sauce really makes it popular,” says Miulene Pilanca, who manages the Kahala branch. Kozo Sushi takes great pride in its spicy sauce, which is a “secret recipe” customers keep coming back for.
Next, Hurricane Maki presents a mix of ebi fry, lettuce, wasabi, mayonnaise and green onions in a sushi roll topped with strips of salmon, sweet chili sauce and teriyaki sauce. The dish’s perfect balance of crunchy and soft textures will have you begging for more.
“This is pretty new, and it’s one of our best sellers,” explains Pilanca.
As for Teri Chicken Maki, the comforting flavors of teriyaki chicken, tomato, lettuce and mayonnaise are rolled into one delightful maki set, which is topped with teriyaki sauce. Seeing as teriyaki chicken remains a local favorite, diners really can’t go wrong with this dish.
Aside from offering yummy sushi creations, Kozo Sushi also is committed to catering to its customers’ needs. After many patrons voiced their desires to adopt healthier diets, Kozo Sushi decided to add the option of brown rice to its menu. In addition to this, the company now serves all rice with no MSG.
For more information, as well as to learn about Kozo Sushi’s catering options, visit kozosushihawaii.com.
KOZO SUSHI Kahala Mall (and four other locations) || 4618 Kilauea Ave., Kahala || 738-5696 || Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
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