Sushi Spin
Highly anticipated conveyor-belt sushi restaurant opens in Austin
A fun new sushi concept is giving Austin a whirl. Kula Revolving Sushi Bar is now open in North Central Austin at the Crescent shopping center.
The successful restaurant chain from Japan delivers fresh sushi and Japanese dishes via a conveyor belt. The concept is simple: Customers pluck labeled plates directly from the belt that weaves throughout the restaurant. If you want something specific, place an order on the mounted screen at your table, and the items will be delivered via the same method.
The sushi menu includes nigiri, gunkan maki, classic rolls, and hand rolls (which look like sushi cones). Heartier options range from ramen and udon to various fish dishes. For dessert, expect mochi, sesame balls, and more.
The rapidly growing chain, which has over 300 locations in Japan and nine in Southern California, made its Texas debut in Dallas in 2016. The first-ever Austin outpost is the largest in the U.S.
Kula's Austin arrival was announced in May 2016 along with 99 Ranch Market, a California-based chain of Asian supermarkets. 99 Ranch Market is expected to open later this year.
Crescent, previously known as Highland Village, is a 120,000-square-foot development at the intersection of Airport and North Lamar boulevards. Owner Misuma Holdings tapped Austin's CBRE to handle the leases, update the exterior, and improve the parking lot. The team is also behind the rebranding of The Linc; both shopping center makeovers are part of a larger effort to revamp the Highland area.
Kula's hours are Monday through Thursday, 11:30 am to 10:30 pm; Friday, 11:30 am to 11 pm; Saturday, 11 am to 11 pm; and Sunday, 11 am to 10:30 pm.