Kozo Sushi

A CLOSER LOOK AT THIS WEEK’S HOUSE SPECIAL: DRAGON DON ($8.25)

There’s no shortage of fantastic sushi restaurants in Hawaii — from sit down sushi bars to fast-food spots that have your dishes arrive via conveyor belt for you to grab. But why choose between quality and convenience when you can have both at Kozo Sushi.

The restaurant got its start in Osaka, Japan in 1972, filling a niche market between an okazuya and pricey sushi bar. Customers were able to feast on affordable takeout sushi at a high quality, prompting Kozo Sushi to expand its chain to Hawaii with several locations around the island from Kahala to Pearl-ridge Center.

Since then, Kozo Sushi has garnered a lot of attention from patrons for its array of sushi, bentos, donburis and platters, perfect for potlucks, office parties and family gatherings.

EXTERIOR PHOTO BY ANTHONY CONSILLIO

What’s more, the chefs are always inventing new dishes, too — playing with local flavors and a variety of ingredients. The restaurant also plans to unveil new items next month, so check out its web-site to see all the latest creations.

With quality ingredients at a great value, you can’t go wrong with choosing Kozo Sushi to satisfy your sushi cravings, whether you want to dine in or take the flavors along with you.

Finishing Touches

Sprinkles of masago and green onions, plus a heavy drizzle of spicy and teriyaki sauces top the dish.

Setting the Stage

The foundation for a donburi, which translates to rice bowl in Japanese, starts with Kozo Sushi’s signature rice that’s made with its special vinegar.

Palate Cleanser

A side of pickled ginger is traditionally served to cleanse your palate, making each flavorful bite even better.

Say ‘Ahi’

Bite into creamy spicy ahi that is spread atop a bed of crunchy shrimp tempura and rice.

Tempting Tempura

Three pieces of shrimp tempura line up to complete this duet.

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Kozo Sushi

Pearlridge Center Downtown, 98-1005 Moanalua Road, Aiea (and other locations) 483-6805 Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. kozosushihawaii.com

Aiea, HI 96701