“This is the otoro (premium fatty tuna belly).”On August 2, a reporter visited Chapman Plaza, located at the intersection of 6th Street and Alexandria Avenue in LA’s Koreatown. In the space formerly occupied by Sake House by Hikari, Japan’s legendary sushi chain Sushi Zanmai opened its doors. Even before its official opening at 10 a.m., a line of nearly 100 meters formed, showcasing the immense popularity of Sushi Zanmai.

The founder of Sushi Zanmai, Kiyoshi Kimura, known in Japan as the “Tuna King,” captivated the crowd by personally performing a tuna-cutting demonstration. Appearing alongside staff dressed in traditional white Japanese uniforms, Kimura skillfully divided the fish, explaining the names and uses of each part. The atmosphere was hushed with anticipation as he sliced the premium otoro (fatty tuna belly), the most prized cut. When he scraped the meat from the spine with a spoon and handed it directly to customers, the scene erupted into excitement. Guests sampled the freshly cut specialty parts, showering the event with exclamations of delight.

Japan’s iconic sushi chain Sushi Zanmai has opened its first U.S. location in LA’s Koreatown. Founder Kiyoshi Kimura is a living legend in Japan’s sushi industry. Since opening the first branch in Tokyo’s Tsukiji Fish Market in 2001, Kimura gained widespread fame by securing record-breaking bids at tuna auctions. The chain has since expanded across Japan, now boasting around 40 locations.

Sushi Zanmai differentiates itself by operating 24 hours a day, catering to hungry locals and tourists around the clock. In 2019, Kimura made global headlines by purchasing a 613-pound tuna at the New Year’s auction for a staggering 330 million yen (approximately $2.22 million). At the time, he smiled and said, “A good tuna is priceless,” a quote that continues to resonate among sushi enthusiasts.

The LA location has carried forward this Sushi Zanmai spirit, drawing an enthusiastic response from its opening day. Its prime location in the heart of Koreatown is seen as ideal for attracting both Korean customers and local foodies familiar with Japanese cuisine.