Food & Beverage

Rock N Roll Sushi serving branded sake

Photo: Rock N Roll

December 4, 2023

Rock N Roll Sushi has launched a branded sake in select markets thanks to a collaboration with Arkansas-based Origami Sake. Although alcohol makes up only 20% of total sales in sushi restaurants in the U.S., sake is the most popular choice, said CEO Chris Kramolis.

"We're psyched to introduce this 'power duo' of drinks — Amplified Sake and Electrified Sake — to offer sweet music in a bottle," Kramolis said in a company press release. "Our partnership with Origami Sake will provide a totally enhanced dining experience for our guests, and the Little Rock area gets to have that experience first."

Origami Sake uses 100% Arkansas-grown rice in each of the following beverages:

• Amplified Junmai Sake, a versatile food-pairing sake that has a fruit-forward style featuring notes of ripe cantaloupe, honeydew and pear with a subtle umami backbone. With a slightly higher acidity, its finish is crisp and refreshing.
• Electrified Nigori Sake, which adapts to the flavors, feelings and temperatures of every season. It serves as a summer staple with a balanced sweetness and vibrant hints of citrus and pineapple when chilled, as well as a comforting winter companion with notes of coconut, sweet potato and apple when warmed, Kramolis said.

Each sake drink will be available at Rock N Roll Sushi's Little Rock locations on Main Street and on Chenal Parkway, along with restaurants in Benton and Conway. It will also be on the menu at the new North Little Rock restaurant when it opens later in December.

Origami Sake received the Sake Brewers Association of North America's highest recognition for domestically crafted sake in North America with the Platinum People's Choice Award. It was also awarded this year two Bronze Medals in the 15th Cathay Hong Kong International Wine and Spirit Competition.

Rock N Roll Sushi has over 60 locations in 10 states.