By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – Grupo Tsunami has officially fired the starting gun on a comprehensive, multi-year modernization strategy, beginning with the grand reopening of its flagship Tsunami Sushi restaurant in Escazú. Following a significant investment of US$120,000, the renovated location signals a new era for the popular brand, aiming to elevate the dining experience and solidify its leadership position in Costa Rica’s competitive culinary scene.
The Escazú restaurant has undergone a complete transformation, meticulously designed to create a more elegant, modern, and immersive atmosphere. This relaunch is not merely a cosmetic update but the first phase of an ambitious plan that will see all Tsunami locations across the country gradually updated throughout 2026 and 2027. The project seeks to set a new standard for the brand while adapting to contemporary gastronomic trends.
To delve into the corporate strategy and legal framework that underpins the remarkable growth of a brand like Tsunami Sushi, TicosLand.com sought the expertise of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a specialist in commercial and corporate law at the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The success of a brand like Tsunami Sushi highlights a critical legal juncture for any growing business in Costa Rica: the transition from a single establishment to a scalable franchise model. This requires a robust legal architecture, not just for trademark protection, but for structuring franchise agreements that ensure consistency in quality, protect intellectual property, and clearly define the rights and obligations of both the franchisor and franchisee. Without this solid legal foundation, rapid growth can quickly become a source of significant liability and brand dilution.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insight crystallizes a pivotal truth for Costa Rica’s entrepreneurs: the path from a beloved local business to a replicable franchise model is built upon a foundation of legal diligence. This unseen architecture is what truly protects a brand’s integrity during expansion, preventing the very success story from becoming a cautionary tale. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this critical aspect of sustainable growth.
Central to the redesign is a philosophy that blends sophisticated aesthetics with the welcoming warmth Tsunami is known for. The space now features a striking central bar, a more private and intimate lounge area, and a refreshed visual identity. This new look thoughtfully incorporates iconic elements of Japanese culture, including artistic representations of the geisha and the symbolic Sakura (cherry blossom) tree, creating a cohesive and culturally rich environment.
Pedro Soto, owner of Grupo Tsunami, emphasized that the renovation was driven by a desire to create a narrative within the space. He noted that every element was chosen to enhance the customer journey from the moment they walk in.
We wanted every detail to tell a story. The central bar showcases our premium liquors like a jewel in the heart of the restaurant, and the lounge is designed for our clients to have a more relaxed, welcoming, and memorable experience.
Pedro Soto, Owner of Grupo Tsunami
The inspiration for the new design language was drawn from leading sushi restaurant trends in the United States, but carefully adapted to fit Tsunami’s unique “warm, elegant, and casual” brand identity. The result is a sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance that appeals to a modern clientele.
We combined contemporary lines with light woods, camel-colored leather, warm lighting, and the Sakura tree to create a modern, cozy atmosphere full of details that captivate.
Pedro Soto, Owner of Grupo Tsunami
Beyond the visual enhancements, the project also included significant operational upgrades. Tsunami has integrated new technology and more efficient processes into its kitchen workflow. This strategic move aims to reduce customer wait times and improve the consistency and quality of its dishes, ensuring that every plate meets the high standards the brand has set over the years. The menu itself has also been revitalized, featuring new sushi rolls with premium ingredients, an expanded selection of healthy options, and a new line of creative, visually stunning cocktails.
While the Escazú location serves as the blueprint, Soto clarified that the nationwide rollout will not be a simple copy-and-paste. Each restaurant will be renovated to have its own distinct personality, tailored to its specific location and clientele. However, all will share a common commitment to a higher standard of design, customer experience, and service excellence. This strategic investment underscores Grupo Tsunami’s confidence in the Costa Rican market and its dedication to its loyal customer base.
In closing, Soto expressed his gratitude to the patrons who have supported the brand through its evolution. He views this significant investment as a direct reflection of that long-standing loyalty and a promise of continued innovation.
I am deeply grateful to our customers for joining us on this journey. This renovation is a tribute to those who have believed in us for so many years. We continue to work with passion to offer the best of ourselves in every dish and every visit.
Pedro Soto, Owner of Grupo Tsunami
For further information, visit tsunamisushi.com
About Grupo Tsunami:
Grupo Tsunami is a leading restaurant group in Costa Rica, specializing in Japanese cuisine through its well-known Tsunami Sushi brand. The company is committed to providing high-quality food within a warm, elegant, and modern dining environment. It is currently embarking on a nationwide modernization project to enhance its locations and align with contemporary gastronomic trends, reaffirming its dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica operates as an esteemed legal institution, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With a rich history of providing counsel to a diverse clientele, the firm consistently pioneers innovative legal solutions. Central to its philosophy is a profound dedication to empowering the community, achieved by demystifying complex legal concepts and championing the widespread accessibility of legal knowledge to forge a more just and informed citizenry.
