For nearly 15 years, Nhinja Sushi has proven that longevity in the restaurant industry isn’t just about staying open, but staying relevant, connected, and true to purpose. Founded in 2010, the Oklahoma-based fresh casual restaurant has grown from a single concept into a five-location brand serving more than 1,500 guests daily, all while maintaining a family-owned, community-first foundation.
The ability to evolve while preserving core values is why Nhinja Sushi was selected as an honoree in the Enduring Businesses category of the 2025 CO—100 award program.. The designation recognizes companies that have demonstrated sustained growth and resilience for more than a decade, and Nhinja Sushi has embodied these qualities through innovation, cultural storytelling, and a people-first mindset.
A fresh-casual model built to last
From the start, Nhinja Sushi was built to meet the needs of modern families with fast service, high-quality ingredients, and meals made to order without sacrificing flavor or authenticity. Founder Kang Nhin personally crafted the menu to reflect his Asian heritage while designing operations to deliver food in under 10 minutes.
“From day one, we’ve focused on delivering consistent, made-to-order Asian cuisine with speed and heart while always listening to our guests and team,” said Nhin.
That focus led Nhinja to adopt technology earlier than many competitors. The brand launched one of Oklahoma’s first Asian restaurant mobile apps, integrating digital ordering, curbside pickup, and kitchen efficiency systems well before they became industry standards. These investments helped Nhinja adapt quickly, as dining preferences shifted while maintaining consistency across locations.
The company’s growth has also had a measurable local impact. Over the years, Nhinja Sushi has contributed more than $69 million to Oklahoma’s economy while continuing to expand its team and invest in operational infrastructure to support long-term sustainability.
At the heart of Nhinja Sushi’s endurance is its belief that strong businesses are built by investing in people—both inside and outside the restaurant.
Turning disruption into a defining moment
Nhinja Sushi faced its most significant test during the COVID-19 pandemic. With dine-in traffic disappearing almost overnight, the business was forced to adapt to survive.
“Practically overnight, dining habits changed,” Nhin told CO—. “Rather than panic, we pivoted.”
That pivot involved accelerating changes that were already underway at Nhinja Sushi. The team fast-tracked its mobile app, expanded contactless curbside and delivery options, and restructured kitchen workflows to prioritize speed and safety.
At the same time, the restaurant doubled down on its community commitment. The company launched the “Adopt a Doc or Nurse” initiative, allowing customers to donate meals to frontline healthcare workers—while matching every donation.
“This effort not only helped our team stay employed but also deepened our community ties,” Nhin explained.
The result was more than survival. The crisis strengthened customer loyalty, expanded digital sales channels, and clarified the brand’s identity as one rooted in empathy and action. As Nhin put it, “Longevity isn’t about avoiding storms—it’s about building a culture and business model resilient enough to face them head-on.”
A people-first philosophy that sustains growth
At the heart of Nhinja Sushi’s endurance is its belief that strong businesses are built by investing in people—both inside and outside the restaurant. Employees are cross-trained, empowered to suggest improvements, and encouraged to take ownership of the guest experience. Internally, leadership prioritizes open communication, weekly strategy huddles, and recognition programs that reinforce consistency and care across all locations.
That same philosophy shapes Nhinja’s approach to community engagement. Beyond the Adopt a Doc or Nurse initiative, the company supports local schools through Spirit Nights and teacher appreciation programs, partners with nonprofits like Collective for Children, and co-founded the Greater Oklahoma City Asian Chamber of Commerce to expand representation and opportunity.
For Nhin, these efforts are inseparable from the business itself.
“We’re not just serving meals—we’re serving moments of connection,” he said.
After nearly 15 years, Nhinja Sushi continues to balance speed with soul, innovation with tradition, and growth with purpose. Its recognition as a CO— 100 Enduring Business reflects what its customers and community already know: longevity is built one thoughtful decision and one meaningful connection at a time.
CO— aims to bring you inspiration from leading respected experts. However, before making any business decision, you should consult a professional who can advise you based on your individual situation.
