Katsuya Ko La Jolla has officially opened, and it is every bit as stunning as I was expecting. The name Katsuya Ko means “Son of Katsuya,” and this new concept from celebrity chef Katsuya Uechi brings a modern, stylish take on Japanese cuisine to San Diego. Located in Westfield UTC, the restaurant combines high-energy design, an open kitchen, and a sushi bar that lets diners see dishes being prepared.
From the moment I walked in, it was clear that Katsuya Ko La Jolla was going to be a standout. It has a sleek interior, lively crowds, and a buzz of excitement, immediately making it a “see and be seen” spot, perfect for locals and groups looking for a fun night out.
Chef Katsuya Uechi
Chef Katsuya Uechi, the mastermind behind Katsuya Ko, is widely recognized as one of the top sushi chefs in the United States. He blends traditional Japanese techniques with California-style influences, creating dishes that are both approachable and elevated. Chef Uechi is credited with inventing the now-iconic spicy tuna on crispy rice, a dish that has inspired chefs worldwide. He has been named Chef of the Year by Angeleno Magazine, featured on shows like Top Chef, and authored the cookbook Washoku of California. His vision and expertise are at the heart of Katsuya Ko La Jolla, ensuring every dish is precise, flavorful, and unforgettable.
Innovative Menu Highlights
Katsuya Ko’s menu is a mix of fan favorites from other Katsuya locations, along with unique dishes exclusive to La Jolla. Guests can enjoy shareable plates, sushi, robata grilled items, noodles, rice, nigiri, sashimi, and specialty desserts. The chef blends traditional Japanese techniques with California-style influences, making the food approachable and elevated. Every dish we tried was a recommendation from the chef, and it did not disappoint.
The Original Crispy Rice
The must-try dish is, of course, The Original Crispy Rice. Golden, crunchy rice squares topped with perfectly seasoned spicy tuna and serrano pepper, this dish put Katsuya on the map and has inspired chefs worldwide.
Miso Black Cod
The Miso Black Cod with pickled ginger is marinated for 48 hours and is also one of the most popular items on the menu. The fish is melt-in-your-mouth soft and so flavorful from the miso glaze. It is not overly sweet like many places serve it.
Tomahawk Short Rib
The Tomahawk Short Rib is grilled over the robata, served bone-on, and is served with yakiniku BBQ sauce. The delicious meat is literally fall-off-the-bone soft that doesn’t require a knife.
The Eggplant dish on the Robata section of the menu is a must-order dish. The eggplant is grilled until it’s tender and then brushed with a sweet-savory miso-based glaze that caramelizes and complements the eggplant.
The Katsuya Roll is a luxurious, no-seaweed “inside-out” style roll. It has a refreshing cucumber wrap, filled with high-quality pieces of tuna, hamachi, salmon, scallop, and crab.
Eggplant
The Eggplant dish on the Robata section of the menu is a must-order dish. The eggplant is grilled until it’s tender and then brushed with a sweet-savory miso-based glaze that caramelizes and complements the eggplant.
Katsuya Roll
The Katsuya Roll is a luxurious, no-seaweed “inside-out” style roll. It has a refreshing cucumber wrap, filled with high-quality pieces of tuna, hamachi, salmon, scallop, and crab.
Cocktails and Mocktails Worth Savoring
The drink menu at Katsuya Ko La Jolla is just as thoughtfully crafted as the food. Modern Asian-inspired cocktails like Dragon’s Milk combine sake, coconut, pineapple, lime, and cinnamon smoke. Mocktails receive the same attention, proving that every drink is handcrafted with care. The knowledgeable staff made excellent recommendations to pair with our dishes.
A New San Diego Favorite
Katsuya Ko La Jolla opens daily at noon for both lunch and dinner, with lunch specials coming soon. With its combination of creative cuisine, high-energy vibe, and stylish design, Katsuya Ko is likely to become one of the most popular new restaurants in San Diego. This opening exceeded expectations, and it’s clear that the chef’s expertise and vision shine through every bite.
For sushi lovers and anyone looking for a fun, elevated Japanese dining experience, Katsuya Ko La Jolla is not to be missed.
