Say “Hai” to Philadelphia’s Newest Food Movement

It is a well-known fact that Philadelphia loves food. Well, Philly foodies are in for a real treat with the opening of Hai Street Kitchen & Co. where the respected balance between nuanced flavors and subtle textures of Japanese cuisine are brought to a “Hai-er” level. The opening is slated for Thurs., May 22.

At Hai Street Kitchen & Co. say goodbye to traditional and “Hai” (or “yes” in Japanese) to fresh, bold and exciting food. Imagine the most massive sushi roll the size of a burrito, but made with grilled steak, fried chicken and shrimp tempura, seared salmon or grilled mushrooms and filled with a combination of fresh, local veggies topped with homemade sauces. Or toss it all into a bowl with either rice or greens for a satisfying heap of deliciousness with a nod to Japan’s deep culinary roots.

The Hai Street Kitchen & Co. experience begins as soon as you get in line. Walk into a casually cool environment and let the menu boards guide you to customize your order from start to finish.  Will you “Roll-it” or “Bowl-it”? There’s a different medium for every mood. Choose between white or brown rice and then let your creativity flow with dozens of unique combinations. As you progress through the line, you’ll watch the Hai Street Kitchen & Co. team build your Roll or Bowl into your individualized creation.

Leading this culinary craze is Executive Chef Takao Iinuma whose celebrated culinary career includes years working alongside the legendary Japanese Chef Masaharu Morimoto of Iron Chef. As an uncompromising and passionate chef, Iinuma promises his Hai Street Kitchen & Co. guests a quick and healthy meal that features sustainably sourced, all-natural, quality ingredients.

“Hai Street Kitchen & Co. is both delicious and fun,” remarked Chef Iinuma. “We take the integrity and quality-driven foundation of Japanese cuisine and mix it up in a bowl or roll format to create a fast and craveable new way of eating.”

Hai Street Kitchen & Co. is located at 32 S. 18th St. in Philadelphia and will be open 11 a.m.–9 p.m. daily. For more information, visit their website.

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