Roppongi Restaurant & Lounge has officially reopened its doors, marking the long-awaited return of one of La Jolla’s most revered upscale dining destinations. Led by restaurateur Sami Ladeki, the restaurant is once again welcoming guests at its original location at 875 Prospect St., open daily for happy hour and dinner.
Roppongi’s return answers years of ardent demand from loyal guests who continued to call for its comeback. First opened in 1998, Roppongi was at the epicenter of La Jolla’s social scene. Today, a fully remodeled, reimagined Roppongi is quickly reclaiming its position as one of the exclusive neighborhood’s most sought-after restaurants.
“Roppongi has always been about more than food,” said Ladeki in a statement. “It’s about energy, creativity and connection – a place where great design, great cuisine and great company come together. After hearing for years how much people missed it, reopening Roppongi in La Jolla feels incredibly meaningful, and we’re excited to welcome guests back.”
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 guest favorites alongside new offerings inspired by global influences and coastal flavors. Returning signature dishes include the 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; the Japanese hot rock with New York strip steak, chili ponzu, sesame goma sauce and cucumber sunomono; and sushi rolls such as the 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; the Prime Crying Tiger Steak with herbs, ginger, red onion and cucumber, enjoyed as lettuce wraps; and 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.
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.
Roppongi’s happy hour is available from 3 to 5:30 p.m. daily on the patio and in the bar, offering a variety of half-price Asian tapas and specially priced drinks. Dinner service begins at 5 p.m. daily. Reservations are recommended and may be made on OpenTable. More information is available at RoppongiLaJolla.com and on Facebook and Instagram at @Roppongi_LaJolla.
