Matsuhisa Alum Takuya Umeda to Open Umeda on Melrose at Citrus

Chef  Takuya Umeda, formerly a chef for legendary Nobu Matsuhisa is opening Umeda opening at the corner of Melrose and Citrus Avenue  according to an updated report in Eater LA.

A story we posted earlier, based on an Eater LA story, incorrectly attributed the new restaurant to Nobu Matsuhisa.  According to Eater’s updated story, the earlier report was based on “information told to Eater by members of the Umeda staff and others. In fact, Matsuhisa’s name remains on the active ABC license for the property as a manager, though he is likely not actively involved in the day to day operations.”

Here’s an excerpt from the updated story:

If you happened past the busy restaurant intersection of Melrose and Highland over the weekend, you may have noticed a tiny valet stand across the street from the Mozzaplex. That stand was all the announcement being made about Umeda, an upscale Japanese restaurant offering from chef Takuya Umeda (previously a chef from Matsuhisa restaurant), and the gorgeous contents hidden inside its glassy walls.

Umeda lands at the corner of Melrose and Citrus Avenue, just steps west from Highland. It’s a tall, open space with lots of blonde wood touches, two- and four-tops, and a small wooden bar that looks into the open kitchen. Perhaps most interestingly is a water feature that is literally underfoot as you step into the space, letting guests peer through some thick glass to a babbling, rocky brook below. You won’t find that just anywhere along Melrose.

As for the menu, it’s a mix of Japanese hits that includes some sushi as well as a collection of small bites, each presented rather elegantly and with lots of wine and cocktails to back it up. There’s no menu online just yet, but you can likely expect one soon.

Residents who follow the GWNC Land Use Committee may recall the developers presenting the project quite awhile back, but Nobu was not mentioned as the occupant at that time.  The space has been under construction for a while so it’s nice to see it finished.  After a quiet opening for friends and family, Umeda apparently started serving dinner last night. But they aren’t taking reservations yet, advised Eater, so be forewarned that it’s first-come, first-served. However, there is valet, an essential concession to the neighbors and patrons.