Although Kansas City has had the opportunity to enjoy sashimi, nigari, and maki made in Japanese-inspired sushi restaurants across the city, none have focused solely on the art of temaki sushi, or the hand roll. Kata Nori Hand Roll Bar is preparing to do just that by opening this month in the former Ron Rico Puerto Rico space in the East Crossroads. Kansas City natives Nam Phan, (whose parents owned and operated Sao Mai, a Vietnamese restaurant on Independence Ave.) and his partners, Kyung Kim, Jennifer Vu, and veteran chef Anh “Bass” Pham (who worked at Uchi restaurant in Houston), are ready to unwrap their first concept together. A hand roll is made using a sheet of seaweed that is wrapped into a cone and stuffed with sushi rice and a variety of raw and cooked fish and seafood and fresh vegetables. The rolls are eaten by hand, no chopsticks required, and they are quick to make and to eat, which should equate to quick turnaround times at lunch and before and after events downtown. In addition to the hand rolls, Kata Nori will offer a few shared plates, sashimi, and a small selection of beer, wine, and sake. Follow on Instagram @katanorikc.