On-the-go bentos at lasting sushi eatery

Chicken Karaage bento ($7.99)

BY JACK DANILEWICZ

A commitment to service, namely a “customer comes first” mindset, has always been the prevailing theme for Genki Sushi and its locations throughout the world.

Genki’s founder Fumio Saito was just 24 years old when he helped revolutionize the industry. He envisioned a modernized sushi bar with a distinct feature known as “kaiten” sushi, which translates literally to “revolving.” With that in mind, Saito invented in Japan what was akin to a conveyor belt to roll out his sushi in 1968. The success of the kaiten sushi format enabled him to open outlets in Japan’s Kanto region and it was those locations that paved the way for the creation of Genki Sushi Co. Ltd. in 1990.

Chicken Katsu bento ($7.99)

The company’s reputation for the freshness of its offerings also went a long way in solidifying its status.

Today, Genki has 13 locations in the state of Hawaii, including eight locations on Oahu. Three more locations — one in California and two in Washington — bring the total to 16 in the U.S., while the company also has restaurants in China, Indonesia, Singapore, Kuwait and the Philippines, in addition to Japan.

Genki’s Kapahulu location was its first in the U.S., opening in 1992.

Karaage Squid bento ($7.99; with Ahi Poke additional $1.50)

Part of the appeal of Genki Sushi’s Hawaii restaurants is that they provide an atmosphere ideally suited for families, one where informality and quality fare come together.

According to Saito, Genki Sushi is committed to “improving the quality of each plate we serve — from the speed in which we deliver our food,” to “the taste of our sushi and the freshness of the produce we use.”

For those without the time to dine in, Genki offers bentos to fill the void and give customers a takeout option.

Chicken Karaage, Garlic Chicken, Chicken Katsu and Karaage Squid, all at the reasonable price of $7.99, highlight Genki Sushi Hawaii’s bento choices.

Sushi choices that complete the bento include Inari, California Roll, Kappa Maki, Ume Maki, Oshinko Maki and Kanpyo Maki. For an additional $1.50, diners can also add on Spicy Tuna or Ahi Poke.