30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Business Lunch Japanese in Studio City
Master Critic Review
Kiwami By Katsu-Ya
7.9
The one Katsu-Ya location where Chef Katsuya Uechi still runs the omakase counter himself, applying high-technique sashimi preparation and crispy rice builds in a compact Studio City room that rewards solo diners and small groups more than large parties. The tight space gets loud at peak hours, but the trade-off is proximity to a chef-driven kitchen operating well above typical multi-location sushi standards. A Valley anchor for serious sushi without the Westside commute.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice, Seared Albacore with Crispy Onion, Spicy Tuna with Baked Crab Roll
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: The only Katsu-Ya location where Chef Katsuya himself prepares the omakase course, bringing decades of sushi mastery to a compact Studio City dining room.
Who should go: Sushi purists and groups seeking creative Japanese in the Valley
When to visit: Happy hour for $4 hand rolls; weekday dinner for quieter seating
What to order: Start with the Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice, split a Baked Crab Roll, then let the chef guide you through omakase if budget allows
Insider tip: The patio has heat lamps and is first-come seating with no reservation needed — arrive early to claim a spot
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free valet at lunch; valet available at dinner—street parking on Ventura Blvd gets tight on weekend evenings
Dress code: Casual—jeans and a t-shirt fit right in, no need to dress up
Noise level: Moderate, but the compact room amplifies when full—expect to raise your voice at peak dinner hours
Weekend wait: Gets packed fast—reservations strongly recommended or expect a wait for walk-ins
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid selection: 15+ vegetable dishes including agedashi tofu, vegetable tempura, corn tempura, sauteed shishito peppers, garlic pumpkin, plus vegetable sushi rolls and hand rolls
Vegan options: Workable with modifications—edamame, seaweed salad, cucumber sunomono, sauteed green beans, avocado rolls, and vegetable cut rolls; ask server about dashi in sauces
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, with caveats — soft lighting and a chic, minimalist design set a nice mood, and the intimate size keeps things feeling personal. However, tables are closely spaced and it gets loud when busy, so request the covered patio for a quieter, more private experience. Off-peak weeknights are best for easy conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Risky — this is a small, popular spot that's usually packed. The restaurant itself recommends booking ahead via phone or online. Weeknight walk-ins are more feasible, especially for patio seating. For weekend dinners, book at least 3-4 days in advance. Free valet parking is available at lunch.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — kids menu and high chairs are available. The casual-upscale vibe means families are welcome, but the tight table spacing and small dining room make it noticeable if kids get restless. Best for families with kids comfortable in a sit-down setting. Earlier seatings (before 7pm) tend to work best.
Is it good for groups? Yes — groups of 6-8 are regularly accommodated, with reviewers reporting parties of 8 seated even on busy Saturday nights. No private dining room is available. For groups of 6+, book well in advance. The patio can fit a group of 6 and offers a more relaxed vibe. Call ahead for anything larger than 8.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a small covered patio on Ventura Blvd with heaters for cooler evenings and misters for hot days. Vine-covered enclosure adds some privacy. Quieter than the indoor dining room, making it a preferred spot. Fits roughly 6 tables — gets claimed quickly, so arrive early or request it when booking.
Best For
Better for: Intimate sushi counter dates, solo omakase-style grazing, or a small group splitting creative rolls and sashimi—the compact space keeps energy high
Skip if: You need a quiet conversation spot for a large group—the small room gets loud when packed, and tables are tight
Hours
Monday12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 10pm
Tuesday12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 10pm
Wednesday12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 10pm
Thursday12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 10pm
Friday12pm - 2:30pm, 5pm - 10:30pm
Saturday12:30pm - 10:30pm
Sunday12:30pm - 9:30pm