The upcoming opening of Kanpai Ayce Sushi in Peoria has sparked excitement among food enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate the art of sushi and the pairing of sake. This new restaurant, owned by Kyle Zhuo, is set to bring a unique dining experience to the city, offering all-you-can-eat sushi made to order, a concept that has gained popularity in recent years. Zhuo, also the owner of Holy Crab in East Peoria, understands the appeal of pairing sushi with sake, a traditional Japanese beverage. The restaurant's proposed hours of operation, from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily, suggest a flexible and accommodating approach to dining, catering to a wide range of customers. The location, previously occupied by Sweet Basil Café, has been vacant since 2024, and Zhuo has been diligently working to bring the building up to code, with only minor adjustments remaining. The anticipation for Kanpai Ayce Sushi's opening is palpable, as evidenced by the positive reception it received from the Peoria Liquor Commission, who voted 4-0 to recommend approval for a Class G-B license, allowing the restaurant to serve beer and wine. The final decision rests with the Peoria City Council, who will vote on the matter on August 25th. The restaurant's unique offering and the owner's dedication to creating a memorable dining experience make it a highly anticipated addition to Peoria's culinary scene. As Zhuo awaits artwork from Japan and China to finalize the restaurant's design, the excitement continues to build, leaving residents and visitors alike eager to indulge in the delicious sushi and the warm atmosphere that Kanpai Ayce Sushi promises to offer.
