Zuma, the global Japanese izakaya chain, has opened its first California location, bringing its acclaimed miso black cod and torched salmon nigiri to San Diego. The new 250-seat restaurant debuted on Monday, August 10, inside the historic Guild Hotel downtown.
This arrival marks Zuma’s first expansion into California, signaling a direct challenge to the regional presence of another well-known global Japanese restaurant, Nobu. Both chains operate dozens of high-end establishments worldwide, offering raw fish and prepared dishes in distinctive settings, known for both quality and price. Zuma, founded in London in 2002 by Raine Becker and Arjun Waney, previously opened west of the Mississippi in Las Vegas in 2017 and in Vail, Colorado, earlier this year. Its further expansion on the West Coast is set to add a significant competitor to the area’s already bustling Japanese dining scene.
While Nobu often emphasizes sushi and sashimi, Zuma’s menu offers a more balanced selection, including hot dishes and grilled skewers alongside raw fish preparations. Patrons can find signature dishes like miso black cod wrapped in hoba leaf, torched salmon nigiri, and grilled scallops with mentaiko shiso butter.
The San Diego location, described as dark and almost cavernous, incorporates Zuma’s recognizable rock wall motif and latticed wooden decorations evoking Japanese design. Deep auburn hues throughout the space reference the sunset aesthetic of Baja California. A dedicated counter in front of the sushi chefs highlights the restaurant’s focus on high-quality fish, and the sprawling layout includes outdoor seating on a garden terrace. For those looking for a lively atmosphere, the restaurant also features a DJ booth and a wraparound bar serving cocktails such as the Zuma Paloma, made with clarified yuzu, hibiscus cordial, and tequila.
Francisco Poncho Troncoso, Zuma’s culinary director, stated the restaurant has been deliberate about integrating a more local focus into its offerings while maintaining the chain's overall standards. The San Diego outpost will introduce location-exclusive items, featuring seasonal fish and produce sourced from local farms. Troncoso also noted that Zuma prioritizes competitive compensation and structured growth opportunities for its staff, aiming to foster a culture that supports the chain’s long-term success in the U.S.
Zuma is open daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. at 500 W. Broadway, San Diego, CA, 92101.
