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Issue link: http://ranchandcoast.uberflip.com/i/1542316
Roppongi is in the exact location of the original restaurant — 875 Prospect — and the entire corner was buzzing by the time I arrived at 6pm. I would strongly recommend reservations. ey also have a stellar happy hour from 2 to 5pm, when all tapas are half off. Almost every girl living in San Diego has undoubtedly dated or married a surfer. You know the routine: the sunrise drive to the coast to check the waves, dropping him off because there's no parking, and the wetsuit that's always hanging over the railing of your balcony — or on a hook dripping water all over your garage floor. We've all been there. My favorite routine, however, was grabbing a sandwich at Chris' Liquor in Ocean Beach. Anyone who surfs the Cliffs, Garbage, or No Surf knows this local sandwich spot. Opened in 1956, it's I simply stepped back in time the minute I walked through the door at Roppongi Restaurant & Lounge in La Jolla. Although the interior was beautifully redesigned by restaurateur Sami Ladeki's longtime collaborator, Stephanie Parisi, the elegant ambiance, the vibe, and yes, the aromas, were all familiar. And then, in walks Sami (who needs no last name at this point, does he?), looking dapper as always and just like he did at the first Roppongi grand opening 25 years ago. I know — I was there. Confession: I went in that night to just taste a few items, but I accidentally ordered (and ate) more than my share of plates. Every dish was a standout, but the ones that will have me making the drive from downtown to La Jolla on a regular basis are the Kahlua Pork Spring Rolls, the Duck Quesadilla, the Mongolian Grilled Shrimp, and the Duck Fried Rice. What I Loved Last Month Recent dishes, flavors, and moments that earned a spot on the favorites list BY TERRYL GAVRE Indulge dining PHOTOGRAPHY BY TERRYL GAVRE Roppongi Restaurant & Lounge Roppongi Restaurant & Lounge Chris' Liquor ranchandcoast.com 62 JANUARY 2026 RANCH & COAST MAGAZINE