The change of format was a necessity for Kinkaku. Over 90% of walk-ins assumed all Japanese restaurants were all-you-can-eat sushi, and most left upon discovering that Kinkaku wasn't that. It was bankruptcy or a change of format.
Fortunately I do think KW's tastes have evolved somewhat since that era, and we've seen Ken's do well offering a non-AYCE option. Kinkaku ownership is interested in giving a proper Izakaya another try now, but are understandably hesitant after the previous attempt.
Fortunately I do think KW's tastes have evolved somewhat since that era, and we've seen Ken's do well offering a non-AYCE option. Kinkaku ownership is interested in giving a proper Izakaya another try now, but are understandably hesitant after the previous attempt.