Fans of all-you-can-eat sushi and live hibachi were disappointed last week to learn that Sawa, which opened in Lafayette on June 12, had closed its doors — potentially for good.
The restaurant, which advertised that it was the only place in town that offered both the live hibachi grill and all-you-can-eat sushi experience, posted on Facebook on Sept. 8 that they were closing temporarily to undergo maintenance and staff training.
Fans of the lunch and dinner spot believe that Sawa has actually closed for good, letting staff know that they no longer have jobs.
Acadiana residents took to Facebook on Wednesday to share that former staff members say that Sawa's owners do not plan to re-open the restaurant, with some posters saying that they believe the management plans to reopen in Lake Charles. Several gift card holders were unsure as to what will happen with their unused cards.
The restaurant's last Facebook post prior to the Sept. 8 temporary closure announcement was on Sept. 6; a video enticing guests to come enjoy sushi, hibachi and fun on a Friday night.
Sawa's owners could not be reached for comment. The business is registered to Yigui Ren of Lafayette.