Matoi

My husband and I were able to get a fast reservation with the Quick Omakase Experience. The experience was ~ 1 hour. This was our second visit (first one was the full omakase, several years ago). Majority of the group was already seated for a full Omakase experience. Chef TJ served us at a great pace even though we had a slightly different menu than the rest. Fish was fresh and there was an option to add on more nigiri at the end. Chef TJ and staff were kind and refilled my tea throughout the night.

I've been to a lot of omakases, especially around San Diego, and Matoi is definitely one of my favorites. One of the best things about Matoi is that the selection of fishes is fairly different from others. So whenever I come here, it feels like I get to try something new instead of a menu where I've tried it all before. I highly recommend you try it at least once while you're in San Diego. It's a must try and worth the experience. TJ is really knowledgeable and you can get a fun conversation with him.

TJ really makes this restaurant unique and puts his own spin, hearing hip hop music during Omakase. The chef is really interactive with everyone and makes the meal fun! For this experience, we did the Omakase. As for drinks I started off with a Suntory Premium Malt Small. Then 3 Small Appetizers - Tako Jelly, Ankimo, Misotakai, Sashimi Combination - Toro, Mirugai, Kanpachi, Namadako, Aji, Okiaji, Hotate, Palate Cleanser - Negitoro Sumaki, Grilled Dish - Mehikari, Fried Dish - UchiwaEbi & Wakasagi Tempura, Steamed Dish - DobinMushi, Nigiri - Nodoguro, Aoyagi, KobujimeHirame, Hagatsuo, Sawara, Sanma, KamaToro, Uni, Dessert - Green Tea Ice Cream. When it comes ot the Small Apps, I would rate it like 4/10. Sashimi 2/10 - I really hated the Octopus and clam. I really really really liked the Pal

It is an absolutely wonderful and intimate omokase dining experience. Every dish was well thought out and curated according to what is in season, achieving the exceptional flavor standard that chef TJ wants to create.

An amazing experience! Made a reservation for the 1 hour quick experience and had a great time at the bar. The chef and staff were super friendly - a great Valentine’s Day gift!