Matoi

Such a wonderful meal and experience - the food was exceptional. Only bar seating - 3 parties with 11 people total. All the sashimi and nigiri were prepared by TJ right in front of us. He never left the area the whole time! TJ’s insight and honesty about his experiences were very educational (and hilarious) and one of the highlights of the night. I’ve had omakases where the chef didnt speak more than a few words to describe the food. Be prepared though we sat for the 7:30 seating, didn’t start eating until about 8 and then finished around 10:30. Definitely get the hand roll add on if you have room! We were all full just with the base omakase but squeezed in a handroll!

Chef TJ is the only one in town who will bring you the freshest fish and the most authentic experience. I’ve stopped going to other omakase places in town because of Matoi… oops. I’m a regular here, and I have high stands. That itself should leave a strong message, right? Give it a try; give yourself a relaxed window to enjoy an amazing experience. I hope to catch you here someday.

My friend and I tried getting a reservation for a little while, but please believe me when I say it's worth the wait. Chef TJ is a MASTER at his craft. I haven't seen such respect showed for seafood since my time in Japan. Kudos to him for doing it the right way and making it a very enjoyable experience. We will be back. Thank you again Chef!

Everything in the menu was perfectly curated, highlighting the fine points of each individual dish. We had an amazing experience. The chef brought the japenese fine dining experience to the San Diego region. Definitely see this place getting a Michelin star.

Matoi was an amazing omakase experience. We did the oyabun for $140 and were very impressed. Chef TJ was great and very professional. The fish was very fresh and tasted great. I really recommend the uni and fatty tuna/Toro.