Katsu Sushi - Beverly Hills

Interestingly, he closed Tama and has since opened his new venture, taking over the Katsuya chain. Chef Katsu sets a relaxed and friendly tone, making the service feel both casual yet highly professional—all executed to an impressive standard. They even make sure to replace your cup of tea when it cools down—nice touch! The menu isn’t overwhelming but is carefully curated with a sophisticated range of prices. We asked Chef Katsu to surprise us with a Grandmakase, and he delivered: 1. A cold seaweed "soup" – deliciously tart and refreshing. 2. Sashimi featuring halibut roe wrapped in halibut, Spanish mackerel, Japanese red snapper, and salmon roe marinated in soy sauce—not a fan of salmon roe usually, but this was exceptional! 3. Spanish mackerel served with arugula salad and thinly sliced Japanese soot (which I think he called "milgra"). It had a delightful flavor reminiscent of yuzu. 4. Soy-marinated tuna, yellowtail bell, and a massive shell. The tuna was accompanied by something akin to capers but far superior. 5. Matsutake soup served with a lime wedge in a small teapot. You squeeze the lime and pour the soup into a small cup, and there's also tender matsutake and thinly sliced chicken. 6. Beautiful albacore sushi. 7. Sushi featuring saba (sardine), mackerel, scallop topped with that black Cyprus sea salt, and bluefin tuna. 8. Sushi of Dungeness crab tomalley topped with crab pieces and salmon roe. 9. Using special shiny, thicker, and crispy nori. But we wanted more! 10. Anago (conger eel) and unagi sushi. 11. Uni sushi—heavenly! One with ground black sea salt and the other with red salt. 12. For dessert, homemade pineapple paired with macerated figs (not sure what the liquid was), fresh pineapple, and watermelon. The three of us shared a bottle of sake, which was around $70. Our total was $156 per person, including tax and tip, and it was worth every penny, thanks to the delightful atmosphere and great conversations with Chef Katsu. One of my friends visits frequently and always tries something different—there's such a wonderful variety. I also had lunch there a few days prior, featuring many $15 specials and dishes around $12. By the way, I can say I dined at the original Katsu on Hillhurst, which opened in the 80s, and Chef Katsu previously had another place on Sawtelle. However, I don't believe I've ever visited his third location or made it to Tama.