Now open in San Diego's East County city of La Mesa is Izakaya MaÃze, an upscale, wagyu-focused Japanese-Mexican fusion restaurant.Ìý
IzakayaÌýMaÃze is the product of Chef Nathan Horton, a San Francisco native who previously worked at popular San Diego restaurants like Chef Brian Malarkey's Animae and Chef Steve Brown's Swagyu Chop House. Sited in the space that last housed Tsuki Sushi Bar & Gril, the 35-seat restaurant serves dinner exclusively with a frequently-changing, seasonal, menu inspired by Mexico and Japan. The menu includes shareable small plates, a few entrees, and desserts, as well as beer, wine, sake and cocktails.Ìý
Highlights from IzakayaÌýMaÃze's launch menu include blue corn maza dumplings filled with Oaxaca queso, roasted salsa verde and smoked almonds ($16); Albondigyus wagyu meatballs with spicy tomato sauce, burrata, cilantro chimichurri and bone marrow toast ($28); andÌýtakoyaki tater tots tossed in Wagyu fat with Kabayaki sauce, nori, scallions, and bonito flakes ($12). From the entrees,Ìýinitial dishes include black cod with black garlic, kale, pickled shitake and lemongrass dashi ($28); American wagyu filet mignon with peppercorn($65); and Australian wagyu New York strip steak ($78).Ìý
IzakayaÌýMaÃze is now open at 6062 Lake Murray Boulevard, Suite 201, in San Diego's East County city of La Mesa.