While working recently in Tucson, I happened upon a unique “shopping center” in the Mercado district called the Annex. I say unique because the entire place is made of repurposed shipping containers! It’s very cool.
While visiting the Annex I noticed one location looked like it would be opening soon and as I peeked in the window of the container, I also noticed kitchen appliances that would indicate it might be a legit Japanese restaurant. And I was right.
Kukai, a Japanese kitchen, opened a couple weeks later and I was happy to wait in line for 30 minutes and another 45 to get my food. They were slammed! But in Japanese fashion, the service was polite and patient. I returned 2 more times before I left Tucson (the only restaurant I went back to while there) and highly recommend it.
I have had the ramen which is only available when the red lantern is on display. It took 3 visits before I got to try it and it was very very good. One of the best I have had in the United States. Of course, the best by far is in Japan.
Oh and I should mention there is also the bonus of having Westbound just steps away. Westbound is an outdoor bar that dispenses all of their beer, wine, and spirits by tap. And… you can enjoy your food from Kukai and sit at the bar or the fire pit or one of the many tables nearby. The vibe is fun and Westbound’s concept is super cool. Ice cold beer on tap goes well paired with many of Kukai’s menu items!
I forgot to get pics of my food from Kukai but here’s a video of Lucy, a mini dachshund I met at Kukai. Enjoy!
