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Sushi and Asian food restaurant
finds acceptance in Smithfield
By Arie Kirk
April 17, 2007 | SMITHFIELD -- After opening their
doors three weeks ago, the operators of Kazoku Asian
Grill and Sushi said they have seen a high turnout from
valley residents.
The customers and their familiarity with the cuisine
offered has been surprising, they said.
Initially, Nam Lee, the wife of Kazoku owner Jongik
Lee, said she was concerned about opening a sushi business
in a small town such as Smithfield. But upon familiarizing
herself with the residents, she said she is no longer
concerned.
"A lot of people from out of state live here and are
happy to have something like this. They say they miss
the fresh fish from California or Washington. But even
people from Smithfield, I think, like trying new food,"
Lee said.
Lee said the restaurant was going to be labeled only
as a sushi restaurant, but, because of her concern for
business, she added Asian Grill to the name to attract
more customers. However, Lee said she has found that
the change in name was not necessary. Costumers do not
hesitate when ordering sushi, she said.
At 695 S. Main in Smithfield, Kazoku offers a clean
and fresh environment.
Joohee Lee, the owner's daughter, said, "In Smithfield,
there isn't any Asian restaurant. I think people will
enjoy coming here and trying new food in a new setting."
With more than 70 items on the menu, Lee said the
restaurant has something to offer for everyone. Kazoku
offers a variety of meals including tofu, grilled meats,
raw and cooked fish, and vegetarian meals.
She promoted it as an alcohol-free family environment.
Kazoku, meaning "family," is the type of atmosphere
she said they hope to provide.
"We want a lot of families to come and enjoy as a
family in that kind of environment," Lee said.
Those who work there wear shirts sporting the Chinese
character that means "love." She said they
hope to promote positive family relations and the respect
of elders, a value held highly in Asian culture.
The Lee family moved to Cache Valley from Seoul, South
Korea. Then they moved to Philadelphia for a time, but
Lee said she always dreamed of returning to the valley.
Using her daughter as a translator, Lee said, "Seoul
was a very crowded city. Here it is very quiet and peaceful.
The people are very kind. When I lived in Philadelphia,
I was always thinking of Logan. I love being in Utah."
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