Phone: 310-899-9494
Status: Soft opened Nov 5
The usual permitting and final inspection delays held up Santa Monica's debut of California Shabu-Shabu, but as of last Saturday the modern boil-your-dinner (or lunch) restaurant is now cooking. Two earlier locations of California Shabu-Shabu exist in Fountain Valley and Costa Mesa, this Broadway and 10th Street space offers mostly the same shabu-shabu menu, but the prices are a few cents higher here by the beach. Alcohol is a bit different too, more crafty beer options.
The venue was designed by Yukiko Loizides who was actually the interior creative aboard the first shabu-shabu spot which almost opened in this location, then didn't. The overall simple, open vision was a collaborative effort between her and partner Ash Chan. And speaking of design, check out all the colorful art that brightens up this space. Chan says, "art is very important to me, and seeing the number of customers that come in and out of the restaurant doors, it was really important for us to represent more contemporary art that embodies our generation. The art pieces we have scattered all over were all from local artists."
While parking in this area can be scarce, street spots on Broadway and 10th are avail, but California Shabu-Shabu also commands 11 parking spots below the restaurant, just fyi. No reservations accepted here, just first come first serve. Californai Shabu-Shabu is open daily for lunch from 11:30AM-2PM and dinner from 5-10PM.
Additional Photos: Eater LA Flickr Page
Additional Reading: ExpansionWire, 10/14