Popular Japanese restaurant Koku Shi announces permanent closure of Kirkcaldy branch

The High Street branch of Koku Shi closed suddenly in September ‘until further notice’ with no reason given, and in an update on Tuesday evening, the company announced in a social media post that the venue will not be re-opening.

The restaurant – Fife’s first Japanese street food/sushi venue – has been part of the High Street for almost a decade, opening in 2016 on the corner of Kirk Wynd, and then, in 2001, moving into bigger premises across the pedestrianised zone.

It was a go-to place for many diners and highly regarded by locals and visitors. News of its closure has been met with sadness and disappointment by many online.

The company’s two other restaurants in Dunfermline and Perth remain open.

This week’s announcement said: “We can finally share an update regarding our Kirkcaldy restaurant. Unfortunately, Koku Shi Kirkcaldy will not be re-opening.

"Sadly, despite many attempts to make things work with the local council and the landlord, it has been made incredibly difficult for us to reopen and continue operating the business.

"It is disappointing to experience such a lack of support, and this has ultimately led to our decision.

"We would like to thank all our customers and the local community for their support over the years. We truly appreciate everyone who has visited us and supported Koku Shi during this time.

"If you’ll miss Koku Shi’s signature flavours, we would be delighted to welcome you to our newly renovated location in Perth, where the same flavours and warm atmosphere continue.

"We hope to see you there soon!”

Koku Shi was opened in 2016 by Jerzy Urmilowicz and Monika Michalski. The move into bigger premises also saw it launch a new menu which is more creative and features a lot of fusion dishes – incorporating Japanese food in a modern way with a Scottish flavour.