Kaito brings Tokyo’s authentic hand roll bar experience to Marbella

Marbella is adding a new concept to its growing international dining scene. Kaito Hand Roll Bar will open on 7 August at number 6 Avenida de la Fontanilla, bringing a format inspired by Tokyo’s small bars specialising in freshly prepared hand rolls to the Costa del Sol.

The venue belongs to Grupo China Crown, a company specialising in Asian cuisine that is continuing to expand the brand after opening two Kaito restaurants in Madrid. The Marbella branch will be the concept’s first location outside the Spanish capital, reinforcing the group’s commitment to destinations with a strong tourism and gastronomic offering.

The counter replaces the closed kitchen

Kaito’s main distinguishing feature lies in the way its food is served. Rather than preparing dishes out of sight, the restaurant seats diners directly in front of the chef so they can watch each piece being made.

The counter therefore becomes the true centre of the restaurant. Guests can follow the slicing of the fish, preparation of the rice and final assembly of each hand roll, which is served immediately to preserve the contrast between the crisp seaweed, warm rice and fresh filling.

The new venue will have capacity for around 60 diners and retain the relaxed, informal character associated with this type of Japanese bar. The concept aims to reduce the distance between kitchen and table, turning every service into a close and dynamic experience.

What exactly is a hand roll?

A hand roll, known in Japan as temaki, is a piece of sushi rolled by hand into a cone shape. It combines rice, fish, vegetables, sauces and other ingredients wrapped in a sheet of nori seaweed.

Unlike other types of sushi that may be prepared in advance, hand rolls are designed to be eaten immediately after they are made. Speed is essential to preserve the seaweed’s crisp texture and ensure that each ingredient is enjoyed at its best.

At Kaito, every piece will be prepared to order by Master Koichi, who comes from Tokyo and has trained in traditional Japanese techniques. The precision of the cut, the temperature of the rice and the balance between the ingredients will all play a central role in the experience.

From salmon and tuna to wagyu and soft-shell crab

Hand rolls will be the main attraction on the menu. The selection will include classic options made with salmon and tuna, alongside more distinctive combinations featuring ingredients such as wagyu beef and soft-shell crab.

The offering will not be limited to hand rolls. Diners will also find sashimi, nigiri, maki and several tasting menus, as well as other Japanese dishes in which the quality of the ingredients takes centre stage.

The concept allows guests either to stop by for a quick meal and order a few individual pieces or to explore a broader selection through one of the set menus. The expected average spend is between €30 and €35 per person.

A ritual of gratitude before the meal

The experience will also include the so-called “Shake Itadakimasu”, inspired by the Japanese expression traditionally used before beginning a meal.

Rather than simply meaning “enjoy your meal”, itadakimasu expresses gratitude towards nature, producers, fishermen and everyone involved in bringing the ingredients to the table.

Kaito will incorporate this ritual into the service as a way of introducing diners not only to Japanese flavours, but also to part of the country’s culture and gastronomic philosophy.

Sake, wine and Japanese beer

The drinks menu has been designed to complement the different dishes and broaden the overall experience. It will include premium sake, Spanish and international wines, Champagne and Japanese beers, alongside cocktails and chilled drinks inspired by Asian flavours.

This range will allow pairings to be adapted to very different dishes, from delicate fish to richer preparations featuring meat, sauces or fattier ingredients.

Grupo China Crown continues its expansion beyond Madrid

The Marbella opening forms part of the growth strategy of Grupo China Crown, founded in 1981 by entrepreneur María Li Bao. The company currently operates around 20 restaurants across seven brands: China Crown, Shanghai Mama, Sushi Bar Tottori, Bao Li, Lelong Asian Club, Indochina Brasa and Kaito Hand Roll Bar.

With Kaito’s arrival, the group is introducing one of its most distinctive concepts to the Costa del Sol. Marbella was chosen because of its ability to attract an international clientele and its growing reputation as one of the Mediterranean’s most dynamic gastronomic destinations.

The restaurant will combine fresh produce, Japanese technique and direct interaction with the chef in an experience that begins long before the first bite—at the moment the diner takes a seat at the counter.

Opening date: 7 August 2026
Address: 6 Avenida de la Fontanilla, Marbella
Capacity: Approximately 60 diners
Average spend: Between €30 and €35 per person

Information sources: Al Sol de la Costa, the official Kaito Hand Roll Bar website and Grupo China Crown.