Ricemill, a modern Asian-inspired rice bowl concept, is thrilled to announce the launch of three new locations in Phoenix in 2025, starting with Downtown Phoenix at 201 E. Washington Street, Suite 111.
As the first selected U.S. city to debut this innovative fast-casual concept, Phoenix represents Ricemill’s commitment to redefining dining in the region as the go-to destination for delicious, elevated rice bowls, according to a press release. Ricemill will start with the Downtown Phoenix opening at Collier Center in March 2025, followed by the first West Valley location in Arrowhead Towne Center, and the crown jewel of their initial rollout will be a store in Tempe.
“We’re excited to introduce accessible, chef-driven rice bowls to communities, combining high quality, convenience, dynamic flavors, and innovation,” Co-founder Fannie Wang said in a press release. “At Ricemill, we reimagine a timeless staple into a fresh experience that celebrates cultural fusion and craftsmanship while meeting the demand for unique dining options in underserved areas craving for a concept like ours.”
Each rice bowl is a culinary story, blending the founders’ cherished family memories and Asian culinary traditions with a contemporary twist. Ricemill’s journey is shaped by the personal stories of the four founders: Fannie Wang, Harry Yu, Chef Yiyi Wang, and Jin Zhang. They draw inspiration from family gatherings where the comforting aroma of rice bowls prepared by their grandmas fills the air. These moments of connection and shared values taught them that food is more than nourishment – a profound expression of love and togetherness.
“Growing up, I was fascinated by how my family could take simple ingredients and create something magical,” Co-Founder and Operations Partner Harry Yu said in a press release. “A rice mill represents a beautiful process of transformation – taking something humble and unlocking its full potential. That’s exactly what we do in our kitchen every day.”
Guided by these memories, the Ricemill team embarked on a culinary adventure across Asia: Hong Kong, Shanghai, Sichuan, and Osaka to develop the food and beverage program. Led by Chef Yiyi’s culinary direction, who honed her skills at both a 3 Michelin Star and a 2 Michelin Star restaurant, the thoughtfully-curated menu transforms timeless rice bowls bursting with rich fusion flavors. With a focus on freshness, quality, convenience, and versatility, Ricemill is designed to meet the demands of busy working professionals, students, and families seeking customizable, authentic flavors and health-conscious options.
The menu’s core features chef-curated signature rice bowl dishes, such as the savory Seoul Garlic Chicken bowl and aromatic Shanghai-style Steak bowl, which combine Asian traditions with a modern twist. In addition to the signature bowls, guests can “bowl it your way” by creating their dream rice bowls in three easy interactive steps. This option offers endless possibilities, including different foundations, premium proteins, and housemade sauces. Ricemill’s beverage menu will uniquely offer refillable milk teas, inviting guests to enjoy endless sips of their favorite flavors while showcasing authentic ingredients.
The Downtown Phoenix location is a 1,789-square-foot restaurant introducing the inaugural design concept: a refined, energetic atmosphere where clean lines and vibrant touches create the perfect backdrop for power lunches, family dinners, and casual dining experiences. The space is suited to modern tastes and lifestyles and features an inviting indoor dining room, an interactive rice bowl bar, a convenient take-out counter, and an outdoor dining patio. Guests can enjoy dine-in service, carryout, online ordering, catering, and third-party delivery, all available seven days a week.
