Katsuo Nagasawa

Chef
Cafe Del Rey
Marina Del Rey, California

Overlooking the beautiful Marina del Rey Yacht Harbor, Cafe Del Rey has a casual elegance that features an appealing blend of eclectic design, light and airy surroundings, inviting comfort, and most important, award-winning cuisine. A long sweep of windows in the dining room provides an unencumbered view of colorful boats anchored in the harbor and the channel beyond, while the cozy lounge with its fireplace, low-voltage lighting and "found art" is the perfect spot for cocktails and after-dinner relaxation.

Cafe Del Rey’s well-balanced wine collection is in full view in the custom designed, temperature controlled display wine cellar located in the restaurant’s foyer.

Opened in 1991, the concept behind Cafe Del Rey is that of a white tablecloth, fine dining restaurant serving the business community, boaters, residents and visitors with a creative preparation and presentation of fresh seasonal food. Fresh seasonal produce, certified meats, range-fed poultry, game and fresh seafood are the foundation of the menu. Katsuo Nagasawa describes his critically-acclaimed cooking as "a new wave blend of classic French, Italian and Pacific Rim cuisines".

Chef Nagasawa (nicknamed Naga) has been there from the beginning, and within his first year Cafe Del Rey was named "Most Promising New Restaurant of 1991" by the Southern California Restaurant Writers. Showcasing Naga’s culinary versatility, the menu is innovative and daring, yet familiar and friendly, providing for a unique and exciting dining experience.

Trained in classic French Cuisine at Hattori Nutritional College, Tokyo, Japan’s leading culinary school, Chef Naga is well-known is Los Angeles restaurant circles. His experience at a wide range of fine Southern California dining establishments, including Le Petite Chaya in Los Angeles, Alexander’s in Costa Mesa, and Max au Triangle in Beverly Hills helped lead to an invitation to cook at the world-renowned Beard House in new York. During his career, Naga has consistently won accolades for his culinary flair, mastery of various cuisines and stunning presentation of the food he prepares.

A variety of creative entrees, pizzas, pastas, salads, luncheon sandwiches, desserts and different specials are offered daily. Each presentation is a balance of colors, textures and the impeccable knife worked that is part of Naga’s culinary heritage. "From preparation to presentation, I like to maintain the integrity of the form and intrinsic flavor of the featured food."

Although Cafe Del Rey would be worth the visit for the view alone, its rating as one of the top 15 restaurants in Los Angeles and one of the top 250 restaurants in the United States is an incredible culinary bonus.

• Cafe Del Rey is located at 4451 Admiralty Way in Marina del Rey, California (just 10 minutes north of Los Angeles International Airport). Lunch and dinner is served daily, with an array of bountiful breakfast selections for Sunday brunch. Reservations may be made by calling (310) 823-6395.