First-time Restaurant Owner Specializes in Asian Fusion

Spicy Tuna Omusubi, Ozu Pickles, Crispy Rice Cake, and Chicken Karaage.

Photos and Story by Jennifer Schlueter

His own restaurant has been a dream of film producer Paul Yi for years. Last December, he finally made it happen and created Ozu East Kitchen in Atwater Village. Paul, born in Korea, raised in the Bay area, and in LA since 1999, has been passionate about Ramen, but wanted to give his own twist to it.

Thus, Ozu serves Korean and Japanese fusion with an emphasis on Ramen and a variety of unique beverage options in a minimalistic setting. The plan for March is to open an ice cream parlor next door. The restaurant strives to offer high quality food with vegan and gluten-free options for a relatively low price. The lunch and dinner menu vary slightly and are still being tweaked month to month.

Whenever possible, Paul sources his ingredients locally. You should definitely try the avocado toast with yuzu guacamole on crisped rice, the rice cake with chili vinaigrette and a sunny side egg, the chicken karaage (fried), and a ramen bowl. You won’t be disappointed!

Kimchi Udon Shrimp Ramen.

Different types of Sake.

Pork Ramen.

More from Pasadena Independent