TORA, a Technology-Forward Laneway Sushi Concept from the Aburi Restaurant Group, Set To Open February 7
The MICHELIN-recognized Aburi Restaurants is set to introduce its sushi concept, TORA, officially opening in Austin on Saturday, February 7. Known for its premium flame-seared Aburi Sushi and cutting-edge, sushi concierge dining technology, TORA is opening in EastVillage, a $1 billion-plus, 426-acre mixed-use urban center located at 3500 East Parmer Lane in Austin’s northeast technology corridor.
Founded by restaurateur Seigo Nakamura, TORA is the technology-based sister restaurant to the MICHELIN-recognized Miku in Vancouver, and represents a bold evolution of the traditional Kaiten sushi experience. With deep roots in Japanese culinary heritage and an eye toward the future, TORA seamlessly blends innovation with time-honored technique–delivering sushi that’s as thoughtful as it is refined.
At the heart of the TORA experience is its sushi concierge system–a state-of-the-art ordering and delivery platform that connects guests directly to the chefs. Diners place their orders via an intuitive interface, and dishes are delivered through a speedy laneway system, ensuring each plate arrives fresh, precise, and personalized.
TORA’s menu presents a full-spectrum Japanese dining experience, blending traditional sushi craftsmanship with approachable plates and elevated modern touches. TORA’s menu is anchored in authentic Japanese techniques – raw, grilled, and aburi preparations – bridged with contemporary innovation. This creates a dynamic dining experience that emphasizes high-quality ingredients, creative presentations, and a balance of classic and inventive flavors. The menu highlights include:
Aburi: Tradition, Elevated
Aburi at TORA represents the foundation of the brand’s culinary philosophy – enhancing natural flavors through precise flame-searing techniques rooted in Japanese tradition. From signature Aburi Oshi Sushi and J Aburi styles to brighter expressions like Shio Lemon and the classic craftsmanship of Edo Prime, TORA’s Aburi approach spans both innovation and tradition. Controlled heat, thoughtful seasoning, and refined balance define a sushi experience that is intentional, expressive, and unmistakably modern. Beyond sushi, we offer a selection of traditional Japanese hot and cold tapas-style dishes, thoughtfully crafted to guide you through the diverse and layered flavors of Japanese cuisine.
Aburi Oshi Sushi
Experience TORA’s Aburi Oshi Sushi – a masterful twist on pressed sushi where premium seafood meets delicate flame-searing. Each piece is thoughtfully layered for perfect balance: seasoned rice, fresh fish, and signature sauces combine to create a rich, flavorful bite that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Our menu goes beyond the beloved Original Salmon Oshi, offering a curated lineup of flavors that have been favorites in Canada and Japan. Savor premium selections like shrimp, scallop, yellowtail, tuna, wagyu, and fresh vegetable varieties — each crafted with the same care and precision. Whether you’re discovering Aburi Oshi for the first time or returning for a classic favorite, every bite is an invitation to enjoy a truly exceptional sushi experience.
J Aburi
J Aburi highlights traditional Japanese ingredients elevated through Aburi preparation. These pieces focus on purity and restraint, allowing the natural characteristics of the fish to shine while subtle heat adds complexity. The result is sushi that feels both familiar and quietly innovative.
Shio Lemon
The Shio Lemon series emphasizes brightness and balance, using fresh lemon and high-quality coarse salt to enhance the fish. This restrained approach creates a clean, refreshing profile without overpowering natural flavors, allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine. The result highlights Aburi’s lighter, more delicate side while complementing TORA’s flame-seared elements.
Edo Prime
Edo Prime draws inspiration from traditional Edomae sushi, focusing on classic preparation techniques refined with premium ingredients. These selections honor time-tested methods while incorporating TORA’s modern sensibility, offering a bridge between historical sushi craftsmanship and contemporary presentation.
Hot & Cold Dishes, Drinks, and Desserts
Beyond sushi, TORA offers a curated selection of hot and cold Japanese dishes, complemented by local and Japanese beer, sake and thoughtfully crafted drinks. The menu is rounded out with Japanese-inspired desserts, providing a complete dining experience that balances comfort, refinement, and innovation across every course.
“At TORA, we respect tradition while pushing boundaries,” says founder Seigo Nakamura in a statement, a Miyazaki native who began his journey in hospitality at just 20 years old when he took over his father’s restaurant, Sushi TORA. “Austin’s vibrant and curious food scene makes it the perfect home for our next chapter.”
TORA Austin is slated to open February 7, 2026 at EastVillage, located at 3500 E Parmer Ln. Hours of operation will be noon to 9 pm daily. More details, including grand opening events and more information, will be announced via social media. Find more information at https://www.aburitoraus.com/ and follow on social media at @aburitora.austin.