It’s the only restaurant that’s too good for Laguna Beach.
Rebel Omakase, now in its sophomore year, is the most inventive, refined and confident restaurant in Laguna.
Which means it will likely graduate to another city – Costa Mesa, probably.
Laguna is too country for Rebel Omakase.
With its stark, Zen-like décor, you feel like you’re in Century City, but not in a bad way.
The service is impeccable. The attention to detail extraordinary. From the table settings to the plating precision, the passion shows.
Arriving at the table with your name card, it doesn’t take long before you feel special.
Unfortunately, one wonders how long the glow will last – and it has nothing to do with the restaurant.
Hidden in the back of the courtyard at 361 Forest Ave., there have been several restaurants come and go at that location.
Also, with a fixed-price menu at $220 per person plus extras, it’s not just for special occasions, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most people.
Is it worth it? Absolutely. Is it worth it every Wasabi Wednesday? Not unless you have serious money to burn.
But let’s set aside the economics for a minute and enjoy the sushi.
They should rename it Rebel Omygodse.
This is no exaggeration. There are rumors that the foodies at Michelin will be giving it a much-deserved full star or Bib Gourmand at its next list update on Dec. 5. It’s already received a novel “new discovery” mention.
In their description, Michelin says “though not inexpensive, the high-quality ingredients and chef’s skill warrant the price.”
“It may be steps away from the PCH, but this serene spot nestled among boutiques and a gurgling fountain feels a million miles away from the hustle and bustle,” they write.
Who says “the PCH,” by the way? You can tell they’re not locals.
At any rate, Rebel is not like other sushi places. You don’t get to pick comfort food à la carte like fake California rolls or yellowtail smothered in soy sauce.
Everything is curated for you and there is no soy sauce. If you can’t handle that, call me and I’ll take your seat at the table.
With 19 courses (or individual servings), there’s a lot to unpack. None of it is written down. You just have to trust the chef/owner Jordan Nakasone and listen intently as the server describes the dishes.
Things like kohada, tamago, kasugodai, aji and so much more.
By the end of your two-hour meal, as full as you are, you don’t want it to end.
More restaurants in Laguna need to have this kind of courage.
They shouldn’t settle on mediocrity for the masses. Stick to a vision and maybe be surprised at the enthusiastic embrace.
