Japan House Los Angeles

No honorable Angeleno would send a person they cared about to Hollywood and Highland without a damn good reason. It is a garish and overstimulating jumble of tourists, fast fashion, bad stores, lousy food, and worse vibes. But it is more than worth braving the madness for the special meal above it—UKA, the new restaurant at Japan House on the complex’s top floor, is an absolute marvel. The elegant kaiseki menu from chef Yoshitaka Mitsue and chef Shingo Kato covers nine thrilling courses, ranging from subtle to muscular and classic to modern. There is delicate Ainame fish sliced in the intricate honegiri style, cooked in dashi, and perfumed with sansho leaves. There is also a bright and fun Teriyaki Hamachi served with French-inspired asparagus cream. The beverage pairing includes both sake and wine, with creative choices that pair in clever and unexpected ways, and the space is absolutely pristine, with gorgeous views that stretch from downtown to the ocean. It is an extraordinary experience, and it’s easy to forget the imposter Avengers posing for pictures with sunburnt tourists, only five short stories below.

Yes, it’s inside Hollywood and Highland, but it’s worth braving the touristy weirdness for this rotating restaurant concept, part of a larger cultural endeavor that’s owned and operated by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The idea is to showcase the country’s best and encourage appreciation for its design, technology, art, and gastronomy through a gallery, event space, library, and this restaurant. Spring 2022 brought the A5 Wagyu Experience, a series of educational dinners cooked by guest chefs, all heavy featuring the prized beef. Up next is Ramen Discoveries, a deep dive into the many styles of ramen, which will run through the end of July.
How to book: via Tock.