Roppongi Returns to La Jolla After Years of Guest Demand
Roppongi Restaurant & Lounge has officially reopened its doors at its original location in La Jolla, marking the long-awaited return of one of the neighborhood’s most revered upscale dining destinations.
Led by acclaimed restaurateur Sami Ladeki, the restaurant is once again welcoming us daily for happy hour and dinner, and the fully remodeled, reimagined space is quickly reclaiming its position as one of La Jolla’s most sought-after restaurants.
The Comeback La Jolla Has Been Waiting For
First opened in 1998, Roppongi was at the epicenter of La Jolla’s social scene, and loyal guests have been calling for its comeback for years. Sami Ladeki says Roppongi has always been about more than food – it’s about energy, creativity, and connection.
After hearing for years how much people missed it, reopening Roppongi in La Jolla feels incredibly meaningful, and the team is excited to welcome us back to a place where great design, great cuisine, and great company come together.
Old Favorites Meet Bold New Dishes
The new Roppongi honors the spirit of the original while introducing a refined evolution. Led by Executive Chef Alfie Szeprethy, the menu offers a balance of favorites alongside new offerings inspired by global influences and coastal flavors.
Returning signature dishes include:
- Polynesian Crab Stack with lump crab, pea shoots, red onion, cucumber, tomato, mango, avocado, peanut, cilantro, and spicy ginger-lime dressing
- Ahi poke with crispy wontons
- Hamachi crudo tacos with Asian guacamole in corn tortillas
- Japanese hot rock with New York strip steak, chili ponzu, sesame goma sauce, and cucumber sunomono
- Roppongi Roll with tempura shrimp, unagi, cucumber, spicy toro, and tobiko
New offerings expand the experience with:
- Wok-fired specialties
- Handmade dumplings filled with lobster, duck confit, and short rib
- Prime Crying Tiger Steak with herbs, ginger, red onion, and cucumber, enjoyed as lettuce wraps
- Inventive fried rice and noodle dishes designed for sharing
A curated beverage program features premium sake, thoughtfully selected wines, and craft cocktails that complement the menu’s bold flavors.
A Dramatic Redesign That Honors the Original
The redesigned interior is a collaboration between Ladeki and longtime creative partner Stephanie Parisi, whose portfolio includes Hotel Parisi, Prime Ten, and Roppongi Palm Desert.
The design features a sweeping gold-brushed wall, custom furniture, and Roppongi’s original fireplace, now reimagined as a dramatic focal point framed with Buddha statues.
Ceiling sculptures resembling luscious leaves by Milan-based artist Mirei Monticello and works by local and international artists add striking visuals throughout. At the heart of the space is a leathered quartzite bar, while handcrafted oval tables add warmth and texture.
An inviting, covered outdoor patio extends the experience beyond the dining room, offering a cozy, year-round setting complete with heaters and comfortable seating.
See you there!
Roppongi’s return proves that some restaurants leave such a lasting impression that the neighborhood won’t stop asking for them back until they reopen.
📆 Now open daily | Happy hour: 3 PM – 5:30 PM | Dinner: 5 PM
📍 875 Prospect St Ste 102, La Jolla
🎟️ Make reservations here
ℹ️ More info here
See you there, San Diego!
