RoobiFood

Close to ten years ago, my husband and I went to a sushi bar recommended to us by a friend. Located in a strip mall, sandwiched between a pet grooming business and a Domino’s pizza, we wondered if we had the right place. It said “Katsu-Ya” on the sign and there was a line to get in at 5:15 for an opening time of 5:30.

There’s a reason people line up for this place. The sushi here is unparalleled. Imagine drinking a glass of red wine from a box, then having a glass of 2003 Chateau Lafite Rothschild. That’s what it’s like to go from regular sushi to Katsuya. It’s a whole ‘nother level.

We started with the Seared tuna with Japanese salsa. It consisted of a plate full of thinly sliced rare tuna surrounded by a chopped tomato and cilantro salsa. In the middle was a beautiful tower of avocado garnished with a small pickled carrot. We ordered a side of white rice just to sop up every last drop of juice.

Next, we ordered Crispy rice with ahi tuna. I can’t begin to explain how amazing this dish is but it’s my favorite thing on the menu. Chunks of rare tuna on a crispy wonton with bits of creamy avocado in a mayo-sesame seed sauce.

We also ordered Spicy albacore with crispy onions and a spinach salad with grilled albacore. Both of these were melt-in-your-mouth incredible.

Back in the day, this place was a bargain. The Rainbow role was eight bucks but now it’s more than doubled. Since the popularity has caught on, it has become a chain with locations all around Los Angeles. This makes me want to cringe and yet, who can blame them?

The original Studio City location in the strip mall is still there and that’s my favorite. We happened to go by the one in Hollywood and it was a slick, night club interior with security guards and booming music. Scary if you ask me.

Unfortunately, with its ever increasing popularity, not only have the prices gone up, but if you don’t make a reservation at least a week in advance, your options are 5:30 or 10:00 pm. If you don’t have a reservation and you get there before they open, you’ve got a shot. Otherwise, good luck, you’ll die of starvation before they get you in.

If you’re in the Los Angeles area, and you’re a sushi lover, Katsu-Ya is an absolute must. While it is a bit expensive, I assure you, you will not be disappointed!