According to permit documents recently submitted to the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health and Quality, the popular Japanese sushi chain plans to take over the former Toast Gastrobrunch space at 5970 Avenida Encinas. An opening date has not yet been announced.
The Carlsbad restaurant will join Kura's longtime Convoy District location, which opened in 2015, and its Mission Valley restaurant, which debuted earlier this year, continuing the company's steady expansion throughout Southern California.
Founded in Japan in 1977, Kura pioneered the modern revolving sushi concept and has since grown into one of the world's largest conveyor-belt sushi brands, operating more than 550 restaurants across Japan, Taiwan and the United States. Kura Sushi USA launched in 2008 and now operates nearly 100 locations nationwide, with additional restaurants planned.
The restaurant has developed a devoted following by blending traditional Japanese cuisine with technology and entertainment. Guests can select sushi, sashimi and small plates directly from a continuously rotating conveyor belt protected by hygienic covers or place custom orders through touchscreen tablets, with freshly prepared dishes delivered on a separate express conveyor.
One of Kura's signature attractions is its interactive Bikkura-Pon! prize system, which rewards diners with collectible capsule toys after inserting a designated number of empty sushi plates into disposal slots built into each table. The feature has become especially popular with families and younger guests, turning a meal into a game-like experience.
The menu extends well beyond sushi, offering ramen, udon, tempura, hand rolls, desserts and seasonal limited-time specialties. The company also emphasizes that its menu is prepared without artificial sweeteners, artificial seasonings, preservatives or artificial colorings.
The Carlsbad location represents another significant addition to North County's dining scene while further expanding Kura's footprint in the San Diego region. Once open, it will provide local residents with another opportunity to experience the chain's unique blend of technology, affordability and Japanese cuisine without making the drive to Convoy or Mission Valley.
Kura Revolving Sushi's future Carlsbad restaurant will be located at 5970 Avenida Encinas. The company has not yet announced an anticipated opening date.
Originally published July 28, 2026. Information first reported by Joey Reams of WhatNow.
