Katsuya Uechi, a legendary sushi chef who created the Sushi Katsu-ya brand in Los Angeles, has died at the age of 67, his restaurants confirmed Friday.
Uechi, who moved to the United States from Japan in the 1980s, opened his first Sushi Katsu-ya restaurant on Ventura Boulevard in Studio City in 1997.
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WATCH HEREThe popularity of the restaurant grew into the Katsuya Group, a significant contributor in the Los Angeles food scene. The company has since opened more branches, including three additional Sushi Katsu-ya locations in the San Fernando Valley.
"Today, we honor his life and legacy by proudly carrying forward the vision he spent a lifetime perfecting," the company said in a statement. "Rest in peace, Chef. Your legacy lives on in every guest we welcome and every dish we serve."
Condolences poured in for Uechi, who is often created for having created and popularized the spicy tuna crispy rice dish, as shocked fans took to social media to express their sadness and gratitude.
Uechi was survived by his son, Sam, the Katsuya Group said.
