Ava McDonnell
Kappo Tsan is a Japanese kappo-style restaurant led by chef David Tsan, which opened in November 2025. Located in Orlando’s O-Town West district, it introduces an intimate, chef-driven dining experience.
Chef David Tsan is a familiar name in Orlando’s culinary scene. Born in Taiwan, Tsan began working in restaurants at age 18 and spent nearly two decades developing his craft in notable kitchens, including Morimoto Asia, California Grill, and Kabooki Sushi.
“Kappo” translates to “cut and cook,” a dining style that emphasizes both knife skills and hot kitchen techniques. The intimate restaurant seats 30 guests and centers on the traditional Japanese kappo style, which emphasizes both raw and cooked dishes prepared in front of diners.
Kappo Tsan offers three dining options: a six-seat kappo counter featuring a reservation-only tasting menu, a bar with à la carte, and limited table seating. An open kitchen allows guests to view the preparation from every seat.
The menu highlights Japanese techniques with seasonal ingredients, featuring a rotating selection of sushi, grilled items, and hot dishes. A curated sake, wine, and cocktail program complements the food.
Guests seeking the full experience are encouraged to reserve seats at the counter, where a multi-course tasting menu showcases the kitchen’s creativity and technique.
Walk-in seating is available at the bar, and tables may be reserved for à la carte dining. Staff encourage guests to ask questions and explore pairings, making the experience approachable for both first-time and seasoned diners.
“I started my career on this side of town, so opening Kappo Tsan here really feels like coming full circle,” said David Tsan.
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