The popular Japanese conveyor-belt sushi chain will begin welcoming customers starting Sunday, May 17 at noon inside Mission Valley Mall. According to promotional materials circulating online, the restaurant will operate in soft opening mode from May 17 through May 19 between noon and 9p,, before transitioning to regular business hours beginning May 20.
The opening marks Kura Sushi’s second location in San Diego County, joining the company’s longtime Convoy District restaurant, which first opened in 2015 and quickly became a staple for locals seeking a more affordable, tech-forward and entertainment-driven sushi experience.
Founded in Japan in 1977, Kura has grown into one of the world’s largest revolving sushi chains, operating hundreds of locations across Japan, Taiwan and the United States. The company has built a cult-like following around its blend of traditional Japanese dishes, automation and gamified dining mechanics that make the experience feel part sushi restaurant, part arcade attraction.
At Kura, plates of sushi, sashimi and small dishes continuously travel throughout the restaurant on a two-level conveyor system beneath protective ventilated lids designed to help preserve freshness. Diners can grab plates directly from the rotating belt or place custom orders through touchscreen tablets installed at every table, with made-to-order items delivered separately through an express lane system.
The restaurant’s most recognizable feature may be its “Bikkura-Pon” prize game, which rewards customers after they insert a certain number of finished plates into a disposal slot built into each booth. Once enough plates are deposited, the system activates a short animated sequence and dispenses a small collectible prize, a concept that has become especially popular among families and younger diners.
Kura’s pricing model has also helped fuel its popularity during a time when restaurant costs continue rising across California. Promotional materials for the Mission Valley soft opening advertise sushi plates starting at $3.95 each.
Kura’s menu extends well beyond standard sushi rolls and nigiri, also featuring ramen, udon, tempura, hand rolls, desserts and rotating seasonal specials inspired by Japanese cuisine and limited-time collaborations.
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar is located at 1640 Camino Del Rio North, Suite 218, inside Mission Valley Mall. For more information, visit kurasushi.com/locations/san-diego-ca-mission-valley.
Originally published on May 17, 2026.
