Compiled by Robert Sedita, Management Analyst, Dana Point Community Development
Gen Kai Sushi, located at 34143 Pacific Coast Highway, has been serving the Dana Point community for more than 30 years. Originally opened by Yuji Okura, the location was purchased by Kyeoung Shin Yun nearly a decade ago, with current manager Irene Lee at the restaurant’s helm for the last seven.
Gen Kai was founded on the idea of introducing south Orange County to the Japanese cuisine, sushi. Once opened, Okura made visits to local schools, teaching students about Japanese culture and giving how-to lessons on sushi making, specifically the regionally named California roll—an inside-out roll with crab meat, avocado and cucumber.
This community involvement helped Gen Kai grow as students took their newfound knowledge home, introducing their parents to the food and customs and creating a loyal customer base.
When he took over the reins, Yun promised the eatery’s original owner that things would be kept the same and the menu would not be substantially modified. His promise was held and Gen Kai’s longtime customers can still find their favorite items on the menu, like the lunchtime special known as the “Happy Meal” or the poki bowl with a hidden, California roll surprise.
Customers now come from all over Orange County to enjoy lunch and dinner at Gen Kai, and know when they walk through the front door that they will be greeted with a friendly hello, top-notch customer service and amazing food. To find out more about Gen Kai, visit www.sushiorangecounty.com or call 949.240.2004.
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