Japanese-American food counter DŌZO is opening a full-service restaurant in Dilworth
Why it matters: In just under a year, this 12-seat counter in a shared commercial kitchen has outgrown its digs. Now, the team's going bigger and launching a full restaurant and bar to keep up with demand — and to try out new dishes and drinks.
State of play: The Japanese-American comfort food spot will shorten its hours at its current location ahead of its final day of service on Sept. 27.
What's happening: Co-owner Perry Saito, who also runs the popular Japanese food truck Katsu Kart, will open the new DŌZO at 1419 East Blvd., in the space previously occupied by Fern: Flavors of the Garden, which closed last year.
He's aiming to open by Nov. 1, though possibly sooner, he tells Axios.
Context: Saito and co-owner/sous chef John Gamble launched DŌZO last September in a 600-square-foot City Kitch stall with 12 seats.
The cozy counter quickly became a go-to for affordable, generous portions of Japanese comfort food with American twists, like crab fried rice and hot honey chicken karaage.
What to expect: While the Wesley Heights space was designed mostly for takeout, the new DŌZO will be a full restaurant and bar with seating for 30–34 indoors, plus a 30-seat patio with a more lounge-like vibe.
The patio will have QR ordering for small bites and drinks.
Other upgrades planned for the Dilworth location include:
Expanded hours: The new space will serve dinner until 10pm.
A similar but "polished" menu: Favorites like crab fried rice and okonomiyaki will remain, but the menu will grow.
Lunch will feature teishoku, a set meal similar to a bento box, but with more variety.
An expanded fresh fish program will highlight sustainable species beyond tuna, hamachi and salmon.
An expanded bar program: The Dilworth location will have a full cocktail list, spotlighting Japanese whiskey highballs and approachable small-brewery sakes.
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