Kasai is serving up "dinnertainment" in Peoria. Learn more about the restaurant and how it came to be.
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Kasai is serving up "dinnertainment" in Peoria. Learn more about the restaurant and how it came to be.
When did you start your business?
Kasai’s story began over 20 years ago when Mike Russello, his wife Janeen, and their partners opened Sapporo in 2001. The restaurant quickly gained recognition as a Scottsdale icon. After changing ownership for a time, the Russello’s and their partners reacquired the restaurant in 2018 and rebranded it as Kasai. With a renewed focus on family, togetherness, and their signature “Dinnertainment” concept, they expanded the brand by opening a second location in Peoria on Dec. 28, 2023. This milestone marked an exciting new chapter, bringing Kasai’s immersive dining experiences to a broader community.
Where did the idea come from?
The idea for Kasai was born from Mike Russello’s vision of creating a place where friends and family could come together to enjoy high-quality cuisine paired with the entertainment and fun of a Japanese teppanyaki show. Originally, Russello also aimed to incorporate a lively bar scene alongside sushi and appetizers for regular dining guests. Over time, this vision evolved into a more refined steakhouse-style experience, emphasizing exceptional food, togetherness, and immersive entertainment that appeals to a wide range of guests.
What is the nature of your business?
Kasai Japanese Steakhouse is a special dining destination offering a variety of experiences to suit every occasion. Known for its teppanyaki tables, where chefs entertain guests with their culinary artistry, Kasai also features an extensive sushi menu, showcasing fresh, handcrafted rolls. Guests can enjoy contemporary Japanese cuisine at regular dining tables or immerse themselves in the vibrant ambiance of the bar and spacious patio areas, ideal for socializing over handcrafted cocktails and shareable appetizers.
Why was it important to start the business in Peoria?
Expanding to Peoria was a strategic decision for Kasai, given the city’s dynamic growth and vibrant community. The new location is conveniently situated near major attractions such as State Farm Stadium, home to the Arizona Cardinals, Desert Diamond Arena, and the highly anticipated Mattel Adventure Park. These nearby landmarks make Kasai an ideal destination for both locals and visitors. With Peoria’s ongoing residential and commercial developments, the city represents an exciting and thriving economic environment. Kasai is proud to bring its unique dining experience to this rapidly growing area.
What is unique about your business?
Kasai offers a truly unique experience where dining becomes a shared celebration. With the “Dinnertainment” concept, skilled teppanyaki chefs entertain and delight guests as they prepare meals right at the table. This is a place where everyone puts their phones down, kids forget about their iPads, and families and friends come together to laugh, connect, and enjoy great food. Smaller parties have the opportunity to share their experience with other guests in a communal setting, promoting togetherness and fun. The diverse menu, vibrant atmosphere, and focus on connection make Kasai a one-of-a-kind destination.
Anything interesting to share/promote about you and the business?
Kasai offers an incredible happy hour from Tuesday to Sunday until 6 p.m., featuring $2 off appetizers, $2 off beer and wine, $3 off cocktails, and select sushi specials — all available throughout the entire restaurant. Reservations are highly recommended for teppanyaki and regular dining to ensure the best experience, while the bar and patio areas operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. Kasai also features a private teppanyaki room that can accommodate up to 25 guests and includes an 82-inch television, making it a perfect choice for birthdays, corporate events, and other special occasions. Whether stopping by for happy hour or enjoying a full dining experience, Kasai provides a vibrant atmosphere that’s perfect for any occasion.
What are the hours?
Will you branch out and expand at any point/What are your plans for the future?
Kasai is always looking toward the future, with plans to continue growing its presence and bringing the unique “Dinnertainment” experience to even more communities. While no specific locations have been announced yet, the team is excited about the potential for expansion and the opportunity to share Kasai’s blend of exceptional food, vibrant atmosphere, and memorable experiences with a broader audience. In the meantime, the focus remains on perfecting the dining experience at the current locations and introducing innovative new offerings to delight guests.
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