A new dining concept is coming to Calgary for a limited time, offering an immersive taste of Japanese late-night culture. Oori Nori, a 30-seat hand roll bar and cocktail lounge, is taking over the former Sensei Bar space on 14th Street SW for just 100 nights this summer. Opening June 6, the pop-up will run Thursday through Saturday evenings until early September, bringing with it a tightly curated menu of made-to-order hand rolls, small share plates, and a sake-forward drink list.

Created by the team behind local favourite OLEA, Oori Nori is something of a culinary experiment. Channelling the energy of Tokyo street corners after dark—graffiti-splashed walls, low lighting, and a thrum of curiosity—the space is designed to be both intimate and interactive. Culinary director Ryan Blackwell describes the experience as "a creative lab," where food is crafted in real time and designed to spark conversation, experiment with flavour, and leave guests wondering what's next.

The pop-up is part of a larger plan to rotate bold culinary concepts through the same space, using each run as a way to test ideas and push Calgary's food scene in new directions. With only three nights a week and a limited window to visit, Oori Nori offers a fleeting but flavourful glimpse into what might be the next big thing in local dining.