Welcome Back to Roppongi
Roppongi Restaurant & Lounge has officially reopened its doors, much to the delight of La Jolla’s food enthusiasts. Located at the iconic 875 Prospect St., this beloved dining destination is back, offering a fresh take on modern Asian cuisine and a stunning redesign that captures the essence of its vibrant history.
A Culinary Legacy Revived
First opened in 1998 by acclaimed restaurateur Sami Ladeki, Roppongi quickly became a cornerstone of La Jolla’s social scene. After years of anticipation from loyal patrons, the restaurant’s return signifies not just a reopening, but a revival of a cherished culinary experience. Ladeki notes, “Roppongi has always been about more than food. It’s about energy, creativity, and connection – a place where great design, great cuisine, and great company come together.”
Redesigned for a New Era
The redesigned Roppongi is a collaborative effort with Stephanie Parisi, known for her work on notable projects such as Hotel Parisi and Prime Ten. The new interior features a dramatic gold-brushed wall, custom furniture, and the original fireplace, reimagined with Buddha statues as a stunning focal point. Artistic ceiling sculptures by Milan-based artist Mirei Monticello and works from local talent add an eclectic touch to the ambiance.
An Inviting Outdoor Experience
One of the standout features of the new Roppongi is its outdoor patio, designed for year-round enjoyment. Complete with heaters and comfortable seating, the patio extends the dining experience beyond the walls, allowing guests to savor their meals in a cozy atmosphere.
Signature Dishes and New Offerings
Under the guidance of Executive Chef Alfie Szeprethy, Roppongi’s menu seamlessly blends guest favorites with innovative new dishes inspired by global flavors and coastal influences. Some returning classics include:
- Polynesian Crab Stack: A delightful mix of lump crab, pea shoots, red onion, cucumber, tomato, mango, avocado, peanut, cilantro, and spicy ginger-lime dressing.
- Ahi Poke: Served with crispy wontons, this dish remains a crowd favorite.
- Hamachi Crudo Tacos: Featuring Asian guacamole in corn tortillas, these tacos are a must-try.
- Japanese Hot Rock: Enjoy a New York strip steak with chili ponzu, sesame goma sauce, and cucumber sunomono.
- Sushi Rolls: The Roppongi Roll, with tempura shrimp, unagi, cucumber, spicy toro, and tobiko, is sure to impress.
In addition to these beloved dishes, new offerings include:
- Wok-Fired Specialties: A selection designed for sharing, featuring inventive fried rice and noodle dishes.
- Handmade Dumplings: Filled with lobster, duck confit, and short rib, these dumplings are a culinary highlight.
- Prime Crying Tiger Steak: This dish is meant to be enjoyed as lettuce wraps with fresh herbs and ginger.
The beverage program is equally impressive, showcasing premium sake, selected wines, and craft cocktails that beautifully complement the bold flavors of the menu.
Happy Hour and Reservations
Roppongi’s renowned happy hour is back, available daily from 3 to 5:30 p.m. on the patio and at the bar. Guests can indulge in a variety of half-price Asian tapas and specially priced drinks, making it an ideal spot for an after-work gathering or a casual meet-up with friends.
Reservations are recommended and can be made via OpenTable, ensuring that guests can secure their spot at one of La Jolla’s most sought-after dining experiences.
Engage with Us
As Roppongi embarks on this exciting new chapter, we invite you to share your experiences and favorite dishes in the comments below! Whether you’re a long-time patron or a first-time visitor, your feedback is invaluable.
For more information, visit RoppongiLaJolla.com and follow us on social media at @Roppongi_LaJolla for the latest updates and specials.
The reopening of Roppongi Restaurant & Lounge is a testament to the enduring love of its community and the culinary innovation it promises. With its inviting atmosphere, delectable dishes, and a commitment to excellence, Roppongi is poised to reclaim its spot as a premier dining destination in La Jolla.
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Floral, Politz is also the Co-founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.
