Lunch, Upgraded: A Midday Stop at Katsuya Century City

Century City knows how to do power lunches and late-night glam, and Katsuya fits right in: an energetic dining room and a menu that isn’t just a meal; it’s an LA scene. It’s been a local staple for years, and somehow still feels fresh. Because beneath the buzz and trends, Katsuya still delivers where it matters most: on the plate.

CENTURY CITY, CA: Katsuya and Casa Dani at Westfield Century City. Photo credit: Wonho Frank Lee @wonhophoto

What keeps Katsuya fresh, even after years on the scene, is how effortlessly it balances creativity with comfort. Whether you’re stopping by for lunch with colleagues, celebrating a night out with friends, or indulging in a bit of solo culinary escapism, Katsuya Century City has a way of making you feel like you’ve arrived somewhere extraordinary — even if it’s just Wednesday.

CENTURY CITY, CA: The Katsuya specialty roll at Katsuya Century City. Photo credit: F+B Photos by Jakob Layman @jakoblayman

Since the big question isn’t whether to go, but what to order, let’s break it down…

Appetizers

The Crispy Brussel Sprouts aren’t just a nice-to-have but a must-order. Caramelized and cooked to that perfect balance where the exterior delivers a satisfying crunch while the inside remains tender, they’re elevated without being overworked. Think you don’t like brussel sprouts? Tell me again after you’ve tried Katsuya’s. 

Another specialty is their Seasonal Vegetable Katsu. This one varies based on what’s seasonal, of course, but it’s a healthy Japanese dish with lightly breaded vegetables. It’s light without feeling delicate and indulgent without tipping into heavy.

CENTURY CITY, CA: The Crispy Sticky Rice, Seasonal Vegetable Katsu, and Miso Black Cod at Katsuya Century City. Photo credit: F+B Photos by Jakob Layman @jakoblayman

Specialty Rolls

How can you go to Katsuya without ordering sushi — and specifically the Katsuya? I mean, it’s in the name so really, it would be rude not to, right? Elegantly wrapped with cucumber, inside find a medley of tuna, hamachi, salmon, crab and avocado that stands out even in a city with top-notch sushi.

The Baked Crab Hand Rolls arrive with perfectly seasoned snow crab tucked into soy paper. The menu calls them dynamite and it’s not an overreach. They are. 

Chef Katsuya. Photo credit: F+B Photos by Jakob Layman @jakoblayman

Entrees 

Should you manage to NOT order sushi in one of the world’s most beloved sushi restaurants? Ah, the age-old question… Usually, that is. At Katsuya, the answer is (or at least could be) an emphatic yes. Because Katsuya lets you play, either way. While it’s known for sushi, you’ll never go wrong ordering things off the classics here either. 

The Miso Black Cod exemplifies Katsuya’s strength: letting simplicity do the talking while technique quietly carries the experience. Perfectly flaky, with a subtle richness that lingered without overwhelming. Meanwhile, the Wagyu New York Steak is also perfect for those looking for a fish alternate while still having an elevated meal.

CENTURY CITY, CA: The Orange and Pistachio Chocolate Pops at Katsuya Century City. Photo credit: Lauren Goldenberg

Dessert

Some A-listers only need go by one name: Think Cher, Madonna, Timothée (seriously, is there another one?) And the dessert known only as The Orange needs no introduction as well. Bright and refreshing, the white chocolate mousse is a standout star of a dessert with a mousse and marmalade filling inside as it sits atop a bed of mandarin granita. The Pistachio Chocolate Pops are another yummy choice — nutty, smooth, and just sweet enough. Together, they made a compelling argument for saving room at the end.

Whether you’re settling in for a polished lunch or easing into an evening out, Katsuya Century City leaves you already thinking about what you’ll order next time. In a city full of options, that’s what keeps it firmly in rotation.

CENTURY CITY, CA: Katsuya Century City. Photo credit: AVABLU @avablu_photography

 

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