An Asian Celebration at KJ’s Sushi and Asian Bistro

The parking lot at KJ Sushi and Asian Bistro was packed with guests on March 8, ready to sample traditional Chinese and Thai cuisine. This is their second year at this location on Bald Eagle Drive and owners Kathy Chitchop and Joe Selerat wanted to say thank you to their customers with a special presentation of cultural Thai dancers and a lion dance ensemble. Both Kathy and Joe are residents of Marco Island and their children all attend local schools.

The rhythms of Thailand came alive with a pair of female Thai folk dancers conveying their heritage through intricate and graceful hand movements. In Thailand, dance is meant as an expression of its vibrant cultural heritage with its roots dating back thousands of years. The Thai dancers were accompanied by traditional folk music usually in string, percussion, or wind.

Lion Dancers also took center stage at the parking lot, which is an iconic symbol of traditional Asian dance. They are not just for entertainment with their display of vibrant costumes and acrobatic dancing – they are believed to bring Good Fortune! The lion is a powerful creature that wards off evil spirits and negative energy and in Chinese folklore, it was believed to protect people from harm! The dance is bold, rhythmic, and mesmerizing, lifting everyone’s spirits. And may good fortune come your way!

A food tent was set up for guests to sample traditional Chinese cuisine such as General Tsao, Spring Rolls, Crab Rangoon, steamed rice, Lo Mein noodles along with delicious Thai cultural specialty – Pad Thai, and a sampling of KJ’s ever-popular sushi rolls. KJ’s Sushi and Asian Bistro serves traditional Chinese, Thai and Japanese cuisine, providing the community with an Asian dining experience.