Zuma San Diego
One of the world’s most recognizable names in high-end Japanese dining is officially headed to San Diego. Public records, a pending California liquor license, and active executive hiring confirm that Zuma Restaurant is preparing to open its first area outpost in the downtown San Diego, marking the brand’s first foray into Southern California. It is reported that the restaurant will span 12,000-square-feet with seating for over 250 guests.
Founded in 2002 in London’s Knightsbridge neighborhood by German-born chef Rainer Becker, Zuma pioneered a modern interpretation of Japanese izakaya-style dining, centered around sushi, robata grill cooking and a high-energy, design-forward environment. Becker, who previously served as executive chef at Park Hyatt Tokyo and Park Hyatt Sydney, built Zuma around precision technique, premium sourcing, and a format that balances informality with luxury.
The concept quickly expanded internationally after its early London success, growing into a global portfolio under Azumi Ltd. Today, Zuma operates in major international markets including London, Hong Kong, Dubai, Miami, New York, Las Vegas, Boston, Rome, Bangkok, Abu Dhabi, and several Mediterranean resort destinations. Azumi’s portfolio also includes restaurant brands ROKA, Oblix at The Shard in London, ETARU, and INKO NITO. As of mid-2024, the company operated more than 35 restaurants worldwide.
San Diego’s addition places the city alongside major cosmopolitan markets that typically serve as Zuma expansion targets. Historically, the brand has prioritized high-density urban cores and affluent tourism corridors. The West Broadway and Columbia Street location situates Zuma within downtown’s evolving luxury hotel and residential cluster, adjacent to The Guild Hotel and walking distance from the waterfront, Little Italy, and the Gaslamp Quarter.
Zuma San Diego is expected to open this summer at the northwest corner of West Broadway and Columbia Street in downtown San Diego.
