Onigilly Japanese Kitchen, a San Francisco-based fast-casual brand specializing in onigiri, or Japanese rice balls, is getting ready to open its first location in San Diego.
The company’s first San Diego location will be franchise-owned by father-and-son Aki and Kenji Ito and is expected to open between March and April of 2026, according to a company representative. The new kiosk will introduce mall-goers to Onigilly’s lineup of over 30 varieties of rice balls, including traditional fillings such as Ume and Salmon, American fusion options like Teriyaki Chicken, customizable bowls, sides, and beverages. A representative from the company tells What Now San Diego that the franchisees plan to open at least one additional San Diego location within the next year or two, while founder Koji Kanematsu continues scouting other sites in the area.
The concept offers a convenient, healthy alternative to fast food for shoppers, students, and families. Expansion into the region is part of Koji’s plan to grow Onigilly’s presence across North America. The menu features handheld Haiga rice wrapped in seaweed with traditional and fusion fillings. Offerings include customizable rice balls, bowls, Poke bowls, sides like Chicken Karaage, salads, and small plates, along with drinks such as Matcha Lemonade, Strawberry Lemonade, and Japanese teas.
Onigilly was launched in 2008 by Kanematsu with a single food cart in San Francisco. After the pandemic, the brand shifted to mall kiosks, generating millions in revenue and establishing five Bay Area locations. The concept operates without grease traps or fryers, allowing expansion into a variety of retail spaces. The San Diego location is the brand’s first outside Northern California and a key step in its regional growth.
