Hayama by WATAMI opened on May 1
Serving Japanese comfort cuisine, Hayama by WATAMI is rooted in warmth from the menu to its interiors. Restaurateur and executive chef Frank “Toshi” Sugiura’s bobblehead collection is on display throughout the restaurant, complemented by wooden elements throughout that evoke a laidback, homelike feel ideal for long, communal meals over shared plates.
Credit: Brooke Olsen
Hayama by WATAMI marks WATAMI Group’s first U.S. location, following up the Japan restaurant group’s 500-plus eateries across Asia. In Culver City, the menu is composed of cold and hot appetizers; rice, soup and salad; yakitori; and sushi. Highlights from the array of Japanese staples include Hayama fried oysters, pork belly-wrapped soft-boiled egg, flame-grilled Kabayaki eel skewers and various sashimi.
“From the beginning, WATAMI knew we wanted to work with chef Toshi for his unique ability to bring Japanese comfort cuisine to life through an American, and distinctly Californian, lens,” said WATAMI managing executive director Shoya Watanabe. “Just as important was the enthusiasm of his family to help shape our shared vision. As a family-founded company ourselves, it was important to partner with a family that is equally involved and passionate. ”
Credit: Brooke Olsen
Credit: Brooke Olsen
Sugiura — the primary Japanese caterer for the Los Angeles Dodgers’ home games — leads Hayama by WATAMI with his daughter, Ichigo. “At the heart of everything we cook is the desire to nourish our guests, not only with food, but with the comfort and sense of community that comes from sharing a meal together,” Sugiura said.
The izakaya’s plates find an esteemed partner in the sake-focused beverage program, which spans imported Japanese varieties that span classic styles to premium Daiginjo expressions. Diners who prefer to pair their food with cocktails can consider from a curation of Japanese sours.
Credit: Brooke Olsen
Credit: Brooke Olsen
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Hayama by WATAMI is located at 32329 Helms Ave. in Culver City. It is open daily from 5 to 10 p.m., except for Wednesdays, and plans to expand to lunch service in the near future. Reservations are availanble on Resy.
AloJapan.com