Izakaya Maíze

Izakaya Maize Opens in La Mesa With a Modern Japanese and Mexican Menu | Eater San Diego

"Transformed from an East County sushi bar and grill, this stylish, modern 35-seat izakaya in La Mesa brings a fresh dining option that spotlights wagyu beef and mixes Japanese and Mexican flavors and techniques. Called Izakaya Maize, it is the first solo restaurant from chef Nate Horton, whose resume includes stops at the Marine Room, Blue Boheme, and Animae, and who has supported Swagyu owner Steve Brown through Cosecha pop-ups and a stint at the now Michelin-starred Niku Steakhouse while helping develop the Swagyu brand. Horton's rotating, seasonal menu includes opening dishes such as smashed wagyu sliders with Oaxaca cheese, blue corn masa dumplings with roasted salsa verde, and mushroom karaage; grilled skewers of duck with yuzu mustard and squash al pastor; and Japanese A5, Australian, and U.S. wagyu steaks, with an omakase-style tasting also offered at $90 per person. Because izakayas are defined as bars with food, the restaurant is also focusing on creative cocktails, highlighting Japanese whisky and sake alongside mezcal and tequila." - Candice Woo