The former Asian Seoul’s Copa Kitchen space is going from dine-in to quick serve when Sakura Asian Kitchen opens next month. 

Following some renovations, including a counter and a dividing wall, Sakura Asian Kitchen will open for business in mid-October at 20924 N. John Wayne Parkway, according to owner Steve Hwang. 

The opening follows the submission of sign permits in August.  

The concept will focus on quick-serve Asian food, sushi, teriyaki bowls, noodles and tuna poke. 

“We’re going with a slightly different concept where you order at the counter,” Hwang said. 

The Cobblestone resident and his family recently sold their dine-in sushi restaurant in Mesa so they could focus on owning a local business. 

“Full–service was just a lot of work. We’re hoping this will be a lot easier,” Hwang said. “And it’s local.” 

Originally from the Gilbert–Mesa area, Hwang and his family relocated to Maricopa in 2020. Hwang had yet to find a restaurant reflective of his favorite type of food.  

“Not only do I now get to have the food I like, but there’s more options in Maricopa now,” he said. 

Hwang said two highlights to look out for on the menu are his Hawaiian style and spicy tuna poke. He also plans to add a ramen bar in the future.