Kotosh originally opened with the name of Kotosh at Kamiyama and is a Japanese Peruvian fusion restaurant. Knowing how important restaurant naming is, I wondered about having a long name that isn’t easy to remember. Fortunately, they are thriving 15 years later. Today, they are simply known as “Kotosh”.
Kotosh is located in a strip mall on the corner of Lomita Blvd and Pennsylvania Ave in Lomita. Due to the pandemic, parking is generally available and due to LA’s recent change, they are now allowing outdoor dining again. I visited while they were take-out only and brought the food home to enjoy.
Peru was the first Latin American country to accept Japanese immigration. The first immigrants arrived as farmers or to work in the fields but, after their contracts were completed, settled in the cities. The particular roots of this fusion lie in the significance both traditions give to fresh fish, as Japanese sushi, buoyed by Peru’s thriving fishing industry, mixes perfectly with the ceviche which is at the center of many Peruvian menus.
Causa Rellena is a potato dish that resembles polenta in consistency. It is layered with imitation crab and avocado with a light mayo dressing. The delicate flavors come forward in this dish and it was a nice way to begin the meal.
The octopus in the Pulpo Olivo was fresh and tender and I enjoyed the bolivia olive sauce that was paired with it. This olive is purple like the Greek Kalamata, but mellow and mild. At some Peruvian restaurants, this dish is served with potatoes.
While I enjoy Japanese sashimi, Peruvian tiradito is a welcome change. Tiradito de Atún is made with fresh yellowtail with a spicy lemon and soy sauce mixture.
Pollo Saltado is the chicken version of Lomo Saltado. It is stir fried served with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, french fries and rice. My wife felt that the fries out weighed the amount of chicken provided.
Sudado de Pescado is made up of steamed white fish filets with a seasoned tomato and onion sauce and served with rice.
Kotosh, 2408 Lomita Blvd, Lomita, CA 90717; 310.257.1364|
kotosh-restaurant.com