Katsuya Brentwood Showcases Elevated Japanese Dining During Exclusive Dinner Honoring LA Clippers NBA Star Kawhi Leonard with Haute Living
On July 21, 2026, Katsuya Brentwood welcomed an intimate gathering of guests for a private dinner celebrating NBA All-Star Kawhi Leonard, offering a refined showcase of the restaurant's signature Japanese cuisine, award-winning cocktail program, and elevated hospitality.
Hosted in Katsuya Brentwood's exclusive Dragon Room, the evening brought together approximately 30 guests for a thoughtfully curated multi-course dining experience. The dramatic private dining space, with its candlelit ambiance, mirrored accents, striking black interiors, and signature dragon mural—provided an elegant backdrop for the evening.
Guests were welcomed with tray-passed pours of Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyard Red Reserve Wine before enjoying a specialty cocktail menu highlighting Katsuya's innovative beverage program. Featured cocktails included the refreshing Yuzu Paloma, crafted with El Cristiano Blanco Tequila, and the Katsuya Fresh Cucumber Martini, made with Haku Vodka and sake.
The culinary experience reflected Katsuya's signature approach to modern Japanese dining. Passed appetizers and the opening course showcased favorites including Wagyu Gyoza, Chicken Katsu, Rock Shrimp, The Original Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, Salmon Sashimi, Edamame, and Albacore Onion.
Entrées featured standout dishes including the restaurant's Tomahawk Short Rib and its acclaimed Miso Black Cod, while a dedicated sushi course highlighted signature rolls such as the Katsuya Roll, Rainbow Roll, and Baked Crab Handroll. The evening concluded with an impressive assortment of chef-selected dessert platters that delivered both visual impact and refined flavors.
Throughout the evening, Kawhi Leonard greeted guests, participated in photos, and enjoyed the intimate celebration alongside family, friends, and hospitality executives, including Haute Living's April Donelson, sbe Chief Business Officer Jay Patel, sbe Head of Nightlife Frankie Delgado, and Leonard's partner, Kishele Shipley.
Created by visionary hospitality company sbe under the leadership of founder Sam Nazarian in partnership with Master Sushi Chef Katsuya Uechi, Katsuya has become an internationally recognized dining destination known for blending traditional Japanese techniques with contemporary flavors. The concept is equally celebrated for its innovative sushi program, Robata specialties, and sophisticated cocktail offerings.
Designed by renowned French designer Philippe Starck, each Katsuya location combines theatrical architecture with refined luxury, creating immersive dining experiences that have become synonymous with the brand. Signature menu items such as Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna and inventive cocktails like the Burning Mandarin continue to define the restaurant's culinary identity.
Located at 11777 San Vicente Boulevard in Brentwood, California, Katsuya Brentwood continues to serve as one of Los Angeles' premier destinations for modern Japanese cuisine, elevated private dining experiences, and exceptional hospitality.
The restaurant’s signature aesthetic features provocative, theatrical, and elegant dining spaces designed by world-renowned French designer Philippe Starck. Katsuya is celebrated for signature dishes like Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna and cocktails like the Burning Mandarin. Katsuya Brentwood is located at 11777 San Vincente Blvd in Brentwood, CA and can be followed on social media @katsuyabysbe (www.sbe.com)
