Los Angeles welcomes Michelin-starred Udatsu and modern Rokusho: a new era in Japanese dining

The culinary landscape of Los Angeles is about to be significantly enriched with the arrival of two high-profile Japanese restaurants this fall. The first is Udatsu, a Michelin-starred sushi restaurant from Tokyo, which will open an eight-seat counter in Hollywood in mid-September. The brainchild of founding chef Hisashi Udatsu, the original Nakameguro location opened in 2019 and earned a Michelin star in 2022. Chef Udatsu trained at Ginza Sushi Ichi in Tokyo and Sushi Ichi in Bangkok, ensuring a pedigree of excellence.

Next to Udatsu will be Rokusho, a 34-seat restaurant serving modern interpretations of Japanese comfort foods such as wagyu aburi sushi and tuna katsu sando. The arrival of these two establishments marks a new era for Los Angeles’ already prolific Japanese food scene, especially given Southern California’s substantial Japanese-American population.

Details of the New Openings

The simultaneous opening of Udatsu and Rokusho in Hollywood is a significant event, as both chefs bring their A-game to Los Angeles. Udatsu’s protégé, Shingo Ogane, will lead the Hollywood counter, leveraging his relationships with suppliers in Tokyo’s Toyosu Market. Ogane hopes to include ingredients and produce from Southern California, ensuring a blend of local and traditional flavors.

Rokusho’s executive chef, Carlos Couts, formerly of Sushi by Scratch, will oversee a rotating menu that emphasizes local ingredients. The restaurant will feature a Brutalist-style interior designed by Gry Space, incorporating traditional Japanese elements. The Hollywood counter will be hidden behind an antique wooden safe door imported from Japan, adding an element of mystery and exclusivity.

Innovative Culinary Offerings

Udatsu’s nigiri is exemplary and takes liberties with traditional preparations, such as hay-smoked tuna and seasonal herb-filled rolls. The chef plans to serve a full vegetarian omakase in Los Angeles, using two types of vinegar to season the rice, which is sourced from a farmer in Kinukihari. The tasting counter’s ambiance will incorporate elements reminiscent of an art gallery, with light fixtures that are art pieces in themselves.

Partner chef Naotaka Ohashi, who earned a Michelin star for his French-Japanese restaurant Tirpse in Hong Kong, will oversee the food and beverage offerings at both restaurants. Ohashi’s cocktail menu will feature Japanese-style mixology, including highballs with clear Japanese gin, tequila, whiskey, and sake. Mezcal espresso martinis and Clase Azul highballs will also be on offer, ensuring a diverse and sophisticated drink selection.

Expanding the Japanese Culinary Scene in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is already known for its rich Japanese cuisine, but the arrival of Udatsu and Rokusho will elevate the scene to new heights. The city’s sizable Japanese-American population and the presence of many chefs trained in Japan before moving to the United States create a fertile ground for these new ventures. The partnership with Boulevard Hospitality Group, which operates Yamashiro, Durango Cantina, and Adults Only, further solidifies the restaurants’ place in the city’s culinary landscape.

The restaurants will open at 6630 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90028, and are expected to attract both locals and tourists eager to experience top-tier Japanese cuisine.

Our Advice on the City

For those planning to visit Los Angeles, the opening of Udatsu and Rokusho offers a unique opportunity to experience some of the best Japanese cuisine outside of Japan. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or a casual traveler, these restaurants promise an unforgettable dining experience.

*Travel Tip for Occasional Travelers: Make sure to book your reservations well in advance, as the limited seating and high demand are likely to make it difficult to secure a spot last minute. Also, consider exploring the nearby attractions in Hollywood to make the most of your visit.

Expert Traveler Insight:* If you are a connoisseur of Japanese cuisine, take the time to engage with the chefs and learn about the sourcing and preparation of the ingredients. This will not only enhance your dining experience but also provide a deeper appreciation for the culinary artistry involved.

In conclusion, the arrival of Udatsu and Rokusho in Los Angeles is a significant event in the city’s culinary calendar. These restaurants promise to deliver exceptional dining experiences that blend traditional Japanese techniques with local ingredients, setting a new standard for Japanese cuisine in Southern California. Whether you are a local or a visitor, these establishments are not to be missed.