A new hibachi and sushi restaurant near one of Ocala’s most well-trafficked interchanges has just opened its doors to the public, serving authentic Japanese cuisine in a contemporary setting.

Koto Hibachi Express and Sushi is now open for business at 3811 SW College Road in Ocala.

Ocala-News.com first previewed the new restaurant in May. It is situated near the College Road/State Road 200 interchange with Interstate 75 and replaces a former Burger King that closed in 2024.

As its name implies, the new restaurant serves a variety of hibachi dishes with various proteins (steak, shrimp, chicken, salmon, etc.).

The interior dining room at Koto Hibachi Express and Sushi in Ocala
The new Japanese restaurant has an elegant, contemporary design Credit: Koto Hibachi Express and Sushi

Hibachi refers to the charcoal-fueled grill used to cook table-side dishes for customers. Hibachi dishes may be purchased individually, as part of a lunch special, or in party tray combinations.

The restaurant’s menu features dozens of sushi rolls, from the traditional classics to special, in-house creations. It also sells Bento boxes, which feature a protein served with fried Shumai, a California roll, white rice, and a salad.

In addition to the savory options, Koto sells smoothies, bubble teas, and deep fried cheesecake at the new restaurant.

The menu at Koto Hibachi Express and Sushi in Ocala
The restaurant features an extensive menu, with hibachi, sushi, Bento box, and bubble tea options

According to property records, Ohana Property Management, LLC, purchased the 1.28-acre parcel on October 4, 2024, for $2.9 million from Singh & Son Properties, LLC. Ohana Property Management is owned by Liang Chen, who is also the owner of the Koto Hibachi Express and Sushi in Gainesville.

Koto Hibachi Express Sushi and Bubble Tea is currently open Monday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. It is open Saturday from 12 to 10:30 p.m. and Sunday from 12 to 9:30 p.m.

For more information on the restaurant, follow Koto Hibachi Express Sushi and Bubble Tea on Facebook or check out Google business listing.

The newest addition to Ocala’s ever-growing Japanese restaurant scene is situated close to several others that have opened over the past five years since Ramen House opened in mid-2020: Samurai Hibachi and Ramen, Foody Bowl, Poké Go, Kluck Chicken, K-POT Hot Pot and Korean BBQ, and Zuru Ramen & Boba.

All six of those restaurants are situated in the city’s southwest region.

Join neighbors in the discussion. Jump to comments.