Mitsuru Hanamure
Forwarded for Mamoru Hanamure, Owner of Mitsuru Sushi & Grill
We regret to inform you that Mitsuru Sushi & Grill will be closing its doors on August 28. The transfer of the restaurant's operating rights has been completed, and J-Pop Culture Cafe, Inc. will be taking over the operations. We deeply appreciate the community's support and assistance during challenging times.
Mitsuru Grill was established at its current location, 316 East First Street, in 1976. I, originally from Kaseda, Kagoshima Prefecture (now Minamisatsuma City), moved to the United States after working as a mechanic in the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, following an invitation from my sister and her husband. Mitsuru Grill was originally a small grill attached to a pharmacy, which my sister was already running. I took over the business from her.
In 1999, we renovated the restaurant, doubling its size. In the 1970s, our signature dish was barbecue ribs, as the sushi boom had not yet begun. Although we offered sushi for takeout before the renovation, it was only after the sushi bar was established that we began serving sushi in earnest. I fondly remember the busy times during Nisei Week in August and preparing New Year's osechi dishes at the end of the year.
While we were able to continue our business relatively smoothly since opening in the 1970s, the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 brought a significant drop in sales, and we faced a very difficult period. During this time, we received support from community organizations, including the Little Tokyo Service Center, for which we are deeply grateful.
Mitsuru Sushi & Grill's last day of operation will be Thursday, August 28. However, we will be holding a sale of store fixtures on the weekend of August 29, 30, and 31. Please feel free to stop by.
Mitsuru Sushi & Grill: (213) 629-4046
