From the Team Behind Norigami: Modern Japanese Cuisine with Taiwanese Influence
(Orlando, FL) – Kappo Tsan, the Japanese kappo-style restaurant from Executive Chef & Partner David Tsan in partnership with restaurateurs Jimmy and Johnny Tung, is now open for reservations.
Chef Tsan is joined by Chef de Cuisine Toshi Kishimoto, former chef-owner of Orlando’s Hanamizuki, bringing more than 30 years of experience. Together, they present a seasonal menu that reflects Japanese tradition with Taiwanese influence, highlighting simmered, grilled, fried and raw preparations with an emphasis on Florida’s seasonality.
Located at 11815 Glass House Lane, just off the new Daryl Carter Parkway exit on I-4 West, Kappo Tsan is a 30-seat restaurant featuring a 12-seat chef’s counter. Situated steps from the future TAO Hotel & Restaurant, Kappo Tsan brings an immersive Japanese dining experience to one of Orlando’s fastest-growing neighborhoods.
Guided by the traditional Japanese dining style kappo — which translates literally to “to cut and to cook” — the concept emphasizes the proximity between diner and chef. Designed by Jacob Portillo, the space was intentionally laid out so that diners can see clearly into the open kitchen from any seat within the restaurant, reinforcing transparency, craftsmanship, and the performance of cooking as part of the experience.
Guests watch dishes prepared, cut, and cooked in real time — engaging all the senses through knife work, heat, aroma, and plating.
Kappo Tsan will soon offer several dining experiences:
- A la carte menu (available now in the dining room and at the counter)
- 9-course Tasting Menu at the 6-seat kappo chef’s counter (coming January)
- 5-course Tasting Menu in the dining room or at the chef’s counter (coming January)
Kappo Tsan marks the next chapter for Chef David Tsan, whose award-winning sushi and handroll bar Norigami earned MICHELIN Bib Gourmand honors three consecutive years (2023–2025).
After time spent in some of the region’s most respected kitchens — including Morimoto Asia, California Grill, JW Marriott, and Kabooki — Chef Tsan returns to the area where much of his career began.
“The last three years at Plant Street Market were an amazing chapter, but I’m excited to finally have more room to create,” said Tsan. “Opening Kappo Tsan feels like coming full circle.”
An extensive sake and wine program curated by 2023 MICHELIN Guide Florida Sommelier Award Winner Benjamin Coutts accompanies both tasting menu and à la carte offerings.
In the coming months, Kappo Tsan will also introduce a dedicated tea service, further expanding the restaurant’s beverage program and offering guests another layer of hospitality.
Reservations are now open on OpenTable and at kappotsan.com. Follow @kappotsan on Instagram for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and upcoming announcements.
