In Loving Memory of Chef Katsuya Uechi

Chef Katsuya Uechi passed away peacefully at his home on June 24, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was 67 years old.

Born in Okinawa, Japan, Katsuya dedicated his life to his family, his craft, and the pursuit of excellence. In 1984, he came to the United States to pursue the American dream of one day opening his own restaurant. He spent years perfecting his craft before turning that dream into a reality.

In 1997, he opened the first Sushi Katsu-ya in Studio City, California. What began as a small neighborhood sushi restaurant would grow into one of the most influential names in Japanese dining. The Studio City restaurant quickly became a destination not only for sushi lovers but also celebrities and other notable figures from around the world. While many celebrities could often be found dining at his counter, Chef Katsuya treated every guest with the same warmth, humility, and unwavering commitment to quality.

Through his relentless pursuit of perfection, creativity, and consistency, Chef Katsuya helped redefine the sushi experience in Los Angeles and beyond. His signature creations—including the now world-famous Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Seared Albacore with Crispy Onions, and many other original dishes—have become icons of modern Japanese cuisine and have inspired chefs across the globe.

As his reputation grew, so did his influence. In 2003, Chef Katsuya helped develop and produce KOI Restaurant in West Hollywood, introducing his innovative approach to Japanese cuisine to an even broader audience. In 2006, he partnered with SBE to launch the KATSUYA restaurant brand, expanding his culinary vision to cities around the world while helping elevate Japanese dining on the international stage.

Deeply committed to preserving and sharing authentic Japanese culinary traditions, Chef Katsuya continued to invest in the next generation of chefs. In 2008, alongside the late Mr. Kanai, Founder of Mutual Trading Co., he co-founded the Miyako Sushi & Washoku School in Los Angeles to teach the fundamentals of Japanese cuisine, sushi craftsmanship, and the spirit of washoku.

Yet beyond his extraordinary culinary achievements, those who knew Katsuya best remember a man of quiet strength, humility, discipline, and generosity. He believed that success was earned through hard work, respect, and never compromising on quality. He led by example, teaching not only technique but also character. Throughout his career, he mentored countless chefs and restaurant professionals, many of whom have gone on to build successful careers of their own.

To his family, he was far more than a celebrated chef. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, and the foundation of the Uechi family. His greatest joy came not from recognition, but from seeing his family grow, watching others succeed, and bringing people together around a meal.

Chef Katsuya's influence extended far beyond the restaurants that bear his name. His legacy lives on in every guest who shared a memorable meal, every chef he inspired, every team member he mentored, every student he taught, and every life he touched through his kindness, passion, and unwavering dedication.

As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a remarkable life—one defined by courage, perseverance, craftsmanship, generosity, and love. His spirit will continue to guide us as we carry forward the values he instilled and the legacy he built over a lifetime.

He will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved.

Rest in peace, Chef Katsuya Uechi.