Katsu-Ya has a number of locations throughout LA but about 10 years ago when I started college at CSUN, the Northridge location was my first proper and genuine introduction to sushi.
I’m not sure if they all have location specific dishes or rolls, but Northridge has the “Northridge Roll” once on the menu but now a “secret menu item”, it consists of a crab and cucumber roll topped with salmon, lemon, and a red onion mix. It’s so simple but so good!
The crispy rice is also a solid option, I think I’ve heard Katsu-Ya invented it? Or at least made it popular in LA? A tad smaller than they used to be but still a good bite.
And I’m glad to say they were and still remain a fantastic, genuine sushi restaurant in Los Angeles that won’t break the bank and offers a wide variety of traditional and westernized sushi options that still hold authentic values.
I showed up on a Friday right at 4:30 opening and sat at the bar. But within a half hour the restaurant was full and it was only reservations the rest of the night albeit a few walk ins that were able to be squeezed in or have to wait.
Service from both FOH and sushi chefs has always been excellent. I’ve never had a complaint from any location and my probably hundreds of visits.
I’ve never been disappointed in the food either, but once in a while there may be an item I just didn’t care for. On this evening the toro sashimi on the sashimi and toro plate just wasn’t quite there. The nigiri was fantastic , melt in your mouth and fresh. The sashimi didn’t really have much taste.
All in all, I will always continue to recommend Katsu-Ya for any location and nearly any dish.
by XandersOdyssey