"Next time you’re looking for a unique flavor experience in Houston, check out Kata Robata—a sushi bar and Japanese tapas restaurant that has been garnering praise from Houstonians since its outset in 2010. The primary fare is modern Japanese cuisine with French fusion undertones, prepared under the direction of James Beard Award-nominated Chef Manabu “Hori” Horiuchi. The warm locale granted by the sleek wooden interior paired with the high-quality food make this the perfect spot for group dining." - Daniel Bosse & Brandon Robinson
"Though a newer restaurant on this list, Kata Robata is certainly iconic. Helmed by chef Hori, this Uptown sushi restaurant has built a reputation for offering some of the freshest fish in the city (flying it in multiple times weekly from Japan) in delicious preparations. Need proof? Visit Kata right before the lunch rush to see diners lining up at the door to secure their spot." - Marcy de Luna
"This Houston sushi restaurant is a classic known for drawing in crowds around the clock, especially around lunchtime. Fortunately, diners can skip the lines and order anything from the full menu to go. That means you can eat ramen, lobster macaroni and cheese, wagyu katsu sandos, and a sushi spread in the privacy of your home. Make the ordering process extra quick by opting for the $120 premium omakase sushi or chirashi boxes, with a selection of fresh nigiri and rolls or sashimi served over a bed of rice. All orders can be placed online through Toast." - Brittany Britto Garley
"On any given night, the sushi counter at Kata Robata in Upper Kirby is always packed. Raw fish freaks know Kata fires on all cylinders when it comes to nigiri, sashimi, or the coveted omakase experience (which you have to specifically reserve). Sushi is all about temperature, and Kata nails it. Here, no matter if you’re sitting at the sushi bar or one of the dreamy sunken booths across the restaurant, the vinegar-sweet sushi rice always arrives slightly warm, the expertly cut fish always slightly cool—the perfect bite." - chelsea thomas, gianni greene, andrew ryce
"Thanks to top-quality proteins ranging from miso-marinated black cod to uni imported from Hokkaido, Kata Robata reigns as one of the city’s top sushi restaurants. Order the octopus crudo and super-fresh sashimi options like seared bluefin toro and madai garnished with Kaluga caviar. For comfort food with shellfish flair, order the lobster and crab ramen or the miso lobster macaroni and cheese." - Brittany Britto Garley