Kondu: Family-Driven Japanese Fusion in the Heart of State College
Discover how Kondu's family-driven passion and inventive Japanese fusion dishes are winning over Penn State locals, one sushi burrito at a time.
At the heart of State College, nestled close to Penn State’s campus, Kondu serves up Japanese-inspired dishes with a unique twist. But Kondu is more than just a restaurant for the locals and students—it’s a family-run venture with a mission to share authentic flavors and innovative dishes in an approachable way. We recently had the chance to chat with Raymond to hear about his family’s journey into the restaurant industry, their community-centered approach, and what makes their menu so memorable.
A Family Venture Comes to Life
Kondu was originally started by Raymond’s uncle, who had already established himself in the restaurant industry with several other successful ventures. With a passion for Japanese cuisine and a desire to introduce something fresh to the local dining scene, he founded Kondu with the goal of bringing high-quality sushi and other Japanese-inspired dishes to State College.
“My uncle was already in the restaurant business,” Raymond shared. “He wanted to start another place that focused on Japanese food and thought it’d be a great fit for downtown State College.”
Two years ago, Raymond and his family moved from sunny California to Pennsylvania to help manage Kondu, bringing a fresh perspective and commitment to continue what his uncle had started. Since then, the family has worked closely together to maintain the quality and authenticity of the food while adding their own personal touches to the experience.
Dishes You Won’t Want to Miss
Kondu’s menu has a few standout items that are fan favorites, both on campus and beyond. One of the top recommendations? The Chicken Teppanyaki, a hearty meal featuring stir-fried vegetables, grilled chicken, and savory fried rice. This dish is so popular, in fact, that it’s even a go-to choice for the Penn State football team on game days. Another must-try is the Nittany Lion Sushi Burrito—a creative fusion that combines the flavors of sushi in a convenient, burrito-style wrap that’s perfect for on-the-go dining.
Raymond has a personal favorite as well: “I’d say the Nittany Lion Sushi Burrito. It’s got such unique flavors, and it’s just something different that people really seem to enjoy.”
Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs
For anyone looking to break into the restaurant industry, Raymond has some straightforward advice: perseverance. “It might be challenging at first, but keep at it and it’ll work out,” he shared. His experience reflects the dedication and resilience needed to run a successful family business, especially one that’s beloved by locals and visitors alike.
As for the future, Raymond and his family are fully committed to Kondu, with plans to continue building their presence in State College and possibly explore new opportunities if they arise. “For now, we’re focused on Kondu,” Raymond said. “It’s been a great experience so far, and we’re excited to keep it going.”
Experience Kondu for Yourself
For those looking to enjoy fresh Japanese-inspired cuisine in a cozy, family-friendly environment, Kondu is a must-try. Whether you’re a fan of sushi, craving a hearty teppanyaki bowl, or intrigued by the unique sushi burritos, Kondu offers something for everyone. With its roots in family values and a commitment to quality, Kondu is a welcome addition to the State College dining scene—and one that’s here to stay.