Roppongi
La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone: (858) 551-5252
- Price:
- $$$$
- Cross Street:
- Bishop Lane
- Hours:
- Daily 11:30am-9:30pm
Editorial Review for Roppongi – by Lina Ung
The Scene
A striking fish tank, museum-like Buddha heads, dragon statues and ceramic vases outline this busy dining room, where individual lights cast a glow on each table from above. Adjacent bar and sushi bar offerings please lounging-types, and the patio and fire pit creates a serene outdoor environment.
The Food
Executive chef Stephen Window combines Pacific Rim dishes with classic French culinary techniques to produce perfectly portioned fusion fare. Small plates, perfect for starters and meant for sharing, include a tasty grouping of Dungeness crabmeat and artichoke, covered by a rich flambé buerre sauce, and Korean barbecue spareribs--a tender and somewhat salty dish neutralized by wasabi mashed potatoes. The crispy, whole striped bass entree for two attracts onlookers as crafty servers de-bone the fish tableside and toss it with soy vinaigrette. For an unforgettable finale, the warm chocolate decadence with vanilla gelato is a souffle well worth the 20-minute preparation time.
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Insider Tips
Know Before You GoReservations are essential, especially at night and on weekends. Be sure to show up on time---tables disappear quickly.
When to GoHappy hour specials include half off all tapas and sushi rolls, everyday from 4pm to 6pm in the sushi bar and patio.
Where to SitRequest the coveted booth, Table 11, which seats four next to the large tropical fish tank. Or table 22, another popular choice where comfy couches and a coffee table sit adjacent to the fireplace for a romantic setting, but isn't conducive for dining.
User Reviews for Roppongi
09/05/2007 Posted by milkboy33
I used to frequent this place often several years ago. Then I moved to LA. Just went back for the weekend and I must say I am still very impressed. The food is great. There's a good selection of Sake and the decor is very modern. I highly recommend!
Pros: Food, Service and Atmosphere
Cons: A bit Pricey
09/03/2006 Posted by flip72
I recently traveled to San Diego area and was initially very excited to try this place out from the other reviews I read online. Sadly it was a disappointment. The table that a friend and I were seated at was dirty, and not cleaned off. It took a while before we were greeted. Waiter was later welcoming, but not very attentive or informative. I had the combo mahi mahi and halibut, my friend had the closest thing they had to Udon. Food was served hot; a nice balance of flavor, presentation was artsy, reasonable portions. However is you are looking for TRADITIONAL Japanese cuisine (and I have had more than my share of Japanese food), then this is not the place for you. I know there are other more reasonably priced Japanese restaurants that will be more satisfying. Some of the guests were pretentious, and loud. There were a few spoiled and obnoxious little rich kids who were all over the place. These are not exactly qualities that are conducive to relaxing dinner out. Decor and ambiance were impressive, but I guess looks don't make for a great restaurant! Who knows... someone else may think of this place as great find, but for me, this is not worth a second visit.
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