SanSai Fresh Grill & Sushi Kitchen is a fast-casual restaurant franchise specializing in Japanese-inspired cuisine. Founded in 2002 in Glendale, California, SanSai transformed a former 1950s diner into a modern eatery, offering a blend of traditional and contemporary Japanese dishes.

The brand began franchising the same year and is currently headquartered in Torrance, California. SanSai's menu features freshly prepared items such as signature salads, grilled teriyaki plates, sushi rolls, and hearty bowls.

Emphasizing health-conscious dining, the franchise focuses on delivering high-quality meals made from scratch, catering to customers seeking nutritious and flavorful options.

What sets SanSai apart is its commitment to the "nature of freshness" philosophy. This approach ensures that all dishes are made to order, with special sauces prepared in-house, providing a unique dining experience that combines speed, quality, and authenticity.

Training

SanSai Fresh Japanese Grill, operated by SanSai North America Franchising, LLC, offers a structured training program to ensure consistency and quality in franchise operations. The training is mandatory for both the franchisee and their initial manager before the store opens. Below is a summary of the main training components:

1. Mandatory Training Program: The franchisee and their designated initial manager must complete SanSai’s required training program before opening the restaurant. This program is aimed at equipping them with essential skills to manage the franchise effectively.
2. Management and Operational Involvement: The restaurant must be personally managed on a full-time basis by someone who has completed the training and meets current standards. Active involvement by the franchisee in the management process is required to avoid the risks associated with absentee ownership.
3. Employee Training and Agreements: Franchisees are responsible for hiring and supervising all employees and must ensure they receive proper training. Additionally, employees are required to sign confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements to protect the franchisor’s proprietary information and operational standards.

Territory Protection

SanSai Fresh Japanese Grill offers limited territorial protection to its franchisees through what it defines as a “Designated Territory.” During the term of the franchise agreement, as long as the franchisee remains in good standing, the franchisor will not establish or operate a competing SanSai restaurant within the Designated Territory.

However, this territory is non-exclusive and does not prevent the franchisor from selling branded products through other distribution channels like grocery stores or the internet.

Additionally, the franchisor retains rights to operate or license others to operate non-traditional venues such as airports, stadiums, or military bases—even if they fall within the Designated Territory.