Genki Sushi closes its doors in Lihu‘e

LIHU‘E — Genki Sushi announced it was shutting down effective Saturday, June, 29.

The Kukui Grove Center is home base for the only Genki Sushi restaurant on Kaua‘i. It was known for its creativity and fun conveyor belt sushi boat.

Back in March of 2004, Genki Sushi restaurant was the first of its kind on the Garden Island with other establishments being located only on O‘ahu.

Genki Sushi on Kaua‘i was the most modern automated shop in the Hawaiian chain when it first opened, complete with an automated dishwasher, an automatic rice washer, and an automatic rice mixer that correctly mixes the rice and vinegar mixture that is the root of sushi.

Now, after two decades in operation Genki Sushi is closed.

In a statement from David Moon, Purchasing Director/Operations for Genki Sushi, he said: “This is a hard decision to make as the Kukui Grove location has been a favorite for many Kaua‘i residents since we opened in 2004. The pandemic and market conditions on Kaua‘i have changed drastically making it difficult for Genki Sushi to continue.”

Sisters Anonui and Hiiaka were outside Genki Sushi on Friday June, 28, waiting for seating and said they heard of the closing from friends and social media.

Hiiaka, said, “It’s kinda sad, we used to come here when we were younger but now since it’s closing, we feel like we should enjoy it one last time.”

The restaurant will not be relocating. However, Genki Sushi did announce last year it will be opening two new businesses on O‘ahu next year.