Ten years of trials and triumphs: Kuuraku story

• A decade of authentic Japanese cuisine, resilience and the pursuit of joy and happiness

Where it all began: A Japanese tradition takes root in Sri Lanka

In September 2016, Kuuraku opened its doors at The Stables, Park Street Mews, Colombo, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey in Sri Lanka’s restaurant industry.

The launch, attended by approximately 250 well-wishers, was celebrated with Kagami Biraki, the traditional Japanese ceremony of breaking open a sake barrel. Meaning “opening the mirror”, the ceremony symbolises harmony, good fortune, new beginnings and shared prosperity. Little did those gathered that evening know how aptly these values would come to represent Kuuraku’s journey over the next decade.

Kuuraku’s philosophy has always extended beyond serving food. Its underlying belief is that a restaurant should offer more than a meal; it should create an atmosphere of warmth, happiness and memorable experiences. The Japanese expression of joy and happiness lies at the heart of this philosophy.

Today, Kuuraku’s global network of 37 outlets across seven countries stands as a testament to the international appeal and enduring strength of this philosophy.

The early years: Winning hearts through authenticity

For approximately two and a half years following its launch, Kuuraku enjoyed a period of steady business growth. Customers increasingly appreciated the distinctive experience it offered, particularly its commitment to authentic Japanese cuisine and attentive hospitality.

Tourists, Japanese expatriates and their families formed an important part of its clientele, alongside a growing base of Sri Lankan customers. Kuuraku was steadily establishing itself as a destination for authentic Japanese dining in Colombo.

However, the promising beginnings were soon to be interrupted by a series of unprecedented challenges.

The first major setback: The Easter Sunday Attacks

The Easter Sunday terrorist attacks of April 2019 dealt a severe blow to Sri Lanka’s tourism industry. The sharp decline in tourist arrivals directly affected businesses that depended on international visitors, and Kuuraku was no exception.

Japanese expatriates and their families, who had also constituted a significant share of its clientele, were affected by the uncertain environment.

Despite these setbacks, Kuuraku continued to persevere. Its local customer base expanded steadily, providing renewed confidence and helping the restaurant regain its growth momentum.

Just as the business was beginning to recover, however, an even greater challenge emerged.

COVID-19: Turning a crisis into an opportunity to serve

The COVID-19 pandemic and the island-wide lockdowns imposed in March 2020 brought the restaurant industry to an almost complete standstill.

Concerned about the safety and well-being of its employees, Kuuraku initially released them to return to their homes. Yet, an unexpected development soon presented the restaurant with an opportunity to serve its customers in a different way.

Kuuraku began receiving numerous telephone calls from members of the Japanese community in Sri Lanka, including expatriates, requesting food deliveries. With domestic helpers and cooks unable to travel to their workplaces, many Japanese families found themselves struggling to prepare their usual meals.

Recognising this urgent need, Kuuraku obtained the necessary government approvals at the highest levels and, within days of the curfew being imposed, commenced food preparation and delivery operations. The restaurant became one of the earliest establishments to resume food services through home delivery during the lockdown.

Equally important was its commitment to its employees. Rather than resorting to retrenchment, Kuuraku continued to pay partial salaries to the employees who were compelled to be on leave during the prolonged period of business disruption, despite severely reduced revenue.

Reflecting on this difficult period, local Director Athulla Edirisinghe expressed his deep appreciation for the Japanese directors:

“My sincere gratitude goes to my Japanese co-directors for honouring the financial commitments to our employees, even when the business was generating hardly any revenue. Their generosity and commitment to our people during this exceptionally difficult period will always be remembered.”

The economic crisis: Another test of resilience

The challenges did not end with the pandemic. Kuuraku’s operations continued to be affected by COVID-19 until 2021–2022. Just as the country was beginning to emerge from the pandemic, Sri Lanka’s financial difficulties escalated into a full-blown economic crisis in 2022.

Rising costs, economic uncertainty and declining consumer purchasing power created further difficulties for the restaurant industry. Kuuraku, too, had to navigate these challenging circumstances, with the effects continuing well into 2023.

For the directors and employees, these years demanded extraordinary perseverance, prudent management and an unwavering belief in the future of the business.

Emerging stronger

January 2023 marked an important turning point in Kuuraku’s journey. With the gradual improvement in the country’s economic environment and the continued commitment of its directors, the restaurant began a determined effort to strengthen its operations and rebuild its business.

The company revisited its procurement standards, continuously upgraded its menus, reinforced service standards and placed renewed emphasis on customer satisfaction. Staff training and operational improvements became important priorities.

These initiatives were not merely measures to recover from adversity. They reflected Kuuraku’s determination to raise its standards and deliver an increasingly rewarding dining experience.

The continued support and guidance of its Japanese directors played an important role in this transformation.

Japanese leadership, local commitment

Kuuraku’s progress over the past decade has been shaped by the complementary strengths and commitment of its directors.

Managing Director Kojiro Honda brings not only extensive interest and expertise in restaurant management but also a strong personal passion for promoting Japanese culture. Among his favourites, Wadaiko Drumming, coming down from the period of Samurai, was one of his favourite indulgences.

Global Culinary Director Sejiro Hirohama brings an equally strong commitment to showcasing authentic Japanese cuisine, ensuring that the restaurant remains faithful to the culinary traditions that define its identity. His ability to convert any local food into exotic delicacies on table is a unique ability he is capable of.

Local Director Athulla Edirisinghe has contributed his extensive local business relationships and experience in navigating Sri Lanka’s challenging business environment. His leadership during periods of uncertainty has helped steer the company through some of its most difficult years.

Together, the directors have worked towards a common objective: preserving Kuuraku’s Japanese identity while building a sustainable business in Sri Lanka.

Our greatest asset: Our people

Behind every successful restaurant is a dedicated team. Kuuraku takes immense pride in its employees, whose passion, commitment and sense of ownership have been integral to the restaurant’s progress.

Their dedication, particularly during the difficult years of the pandemic and economic crisis, has been invaluable. The management recognises that the restaurant’s achievements are not solely the result of its culinary offerings or business strategies, but also of the people who bring the Kuuraku experience to life every day.

A decade of gratitude and a future of promise

As Kuuraku celebrates its 10th anniversary, the directors and employees extend their heartfelt gratitude to the customers who have been an inseparable part of this journey.

Their trust, loyalty, encouragement and countless visits have been the foundation of Kuuraku’s success. Every meal shared, every review written and every word of appreciation has inspired the team to continually raise its standards.

The past decade has been a journey of triumphs and trials, of uncertainty and recovery, and, above all, of perseverance. Kuuraku’s story is not simply about surviving difficult times; it is about remaining committed to its philosophy and emerging with renewed determination.

As the restaurant enters its second decade, its commitment remains unchanged: to offer authentic Japanese cuisine, exceptional hospitality and, most importantly, an experience that goes beyond food.

For Kuuraku, every customer is part of the family, and every visit is an opportunity to share joy and happiness.