Koyo Hand Roll Bar is expanding! The sushi and Japanese eatery is embarking on opening its second Houston location this year. According to a recently filed permit, Koyo is planned to open in the Retail Center in the Heights at 1835 N Shepherd Drive, Suite B2.
The permit further details that construction is already underway and is slated to wrap up this July. If all goes well with the 1,218 square foot remodel of the existing restaurant into the new Koyo, we can expect a summer opening.
The Waffle Bus is currently the tenant at the address, taking up Suite A and B2. No word on when or if The Waffle Bus will be closing or just cutting square footage, but we’re sure more details will be released by the company, so stay vigilant.
At the helm of Koyo Hand Roll Bar is head chef Leo Hirai. What Now Houston reached out to Hirai to find out more details about the upcoming opening and expansion plans, but did not hear back by the time of this publication.
The contemporary, upscale sushi concept made its Houston debut in the Webster area in June of last year. Specializing in made-to-order handrolls with a focus on fresh, crispy seaweed. The eatery also features a large, central square bar for seating. It is suspected that this feature will appear at the new location.
Koyo is a Japanese term referring to the change in color of autumn leaves, representing “change, beauty, and the idea that everyone deserves to enjoy the freshest and highest-quality sushi.” Menu highlights include a lobster handroll and a signature “Squid Ink Calamari” roll, along with sake and beer.
“Fresh. Bold. Unexpected. KOYO Hand Roll Bar brings a modern twist to Japanese hand rolls—crafted with premium ingredients, wrapped with intention, and served with soul,” the Koyo website reads.
“This is more than just sushi. It’s an experience.”
Experience Koyo for yourself when the new restaurant opens in the Retail Center in the Heights at 1835 N Shepherd Drive, Suite B2, this summer.
