In Japan, onigiri is a beloved comfort food, commonly found in convenience stores and casual eateries. This triangle-shaped snack consists of a ball of rice filled with flavors like tuna mayo, salmon or pickled plum, all wrapped in crispy nori. While Denver may not be the first place that comes to mind for onigiri, it has certainly found its way to a few spots around town.
Pacific Mercantile
Where: 1925 Lawrence St., Denver
When: Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Lowdown: Tucked away in historic Sakura Square, Pacific Mercantile is a family-owned Japanese grocery store that has been a Denver staple for over 80 years. Known for its wide selection of Japanese specialty foods and goods, it’s also one of the few places in town where you can find fresh onigiri. Available most weekends (but not weekdays), their rotating onigiri flavors include salmon, Japanese plum, pickled jalapeño, kimchi and more. Even if you’re not on the hunt for onigiri, this market is a must-visit for authentic Asian ingredients and pantry items.
Stowaway Kitchen
Where: 2528 Walnut St., Denver
When: Thursday – Monday 8 a.m. – 2 p.m, Tuesday & Wednesday Closed
The Lowdown: Known for its creative brunch menu, Stowaway Kitchen frequently incorporates Japanese flavors into its dishes. On Thursdays only, they serve fresh onigiri, featuring traditional fillings like grilled salmon and pickled plum. They’re also one of the few spots in Denver offering a true Japanese breakfast—the Asa-Gohan (which literally translates to “Japanese breakfast”). Pair it with a matcha or hojicha latte, and you might just feel like you’ve been transported to a modern Tokyo café.
Kokoro
Where: 2390 S Colorado Blvd., Denver
When: Monday – Saturday 11 a.m – 9 p.m, Sunday 11 a.m – 8 p.m
The Lowdown: A Denver staple for quick and affordable Japanese comfort food, Kokoro is best known for its bowls and ramen. But tucked among the popular menu items, you’ll find onigiri. Unlike some other spots in town, Kokoro offers salmon, tuna and pickled plum onigiri as permanent menu items, not just as specials. Pair one with a popular beef rice bowl or enjoy it as a light snack for a casual yet authentic taste of Japan.
Katsu Ramen
Where: 1930 S Havana St., #4, Aurora
When: Monday – Thursday 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m., Friday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday Closed
The Lowdown: Known for its extensive menu of Japanese comfort foods, Katsu Ramen in Aurora offers more than just noodles. Their onigiri selection features bold flavors like spicy tuna, salmon with garlic soy butter and karaage chicken, alongside classics like tuna mayo. With one of the most diverse onigiri menus near Denver, this spot is a must-visit for rice ball lovers.
Kawaii Konbini
Where: 195 S Main St., #9, Longmont
When: see Instagram
The Lowdown: This cozy Japanese eatery in Longmont is a go-to spot for classic Japanese bites. Kawaii Konbini offers a small yet traditional menu featuring onigiri, beef curry and pork miso soup. Their onigiri flavors range from tuna mayo to shibazuke (pickled cucumber and eggplant with shiso) and natto, among others. If you’re craving the quick and convenient charm of a Japanese convenience store, this spot is for you. While it settles into its new home on Main Street, you can venture in to find grocery items from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays.
Wellness Sushi
Where: 2504 E Colfax Ave., Denver
When: Monday–Sunday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
The Lowdown: Best known for its all-vegan menu, Wellness Sushi on East Colfax is a go-to spot for both vegans and omnivores. Alongside their sushi and ramen offerings, they serve eight different flavors of onigiri. Their lineup includes a classic version with vegan spam and vegan tamago, as well as creative options like teriyaki “beef” and “shrimp” tempura. If you’re craving 100% plant-based onigiri, this should be your top choice.
Editor’s Note 06/04: Reflects accurate location and hours for Kawaii Konbini