Hodges Bay Resort & Spa has opened Katsuya Beach on Antigua, marking the Caribbean debut of the internationally renowned Katsuya brand. Part of the sbe Hospitality portfolio and owned by Jeff Wellemeyer, the resort adds the waterfront restaurant to its shoreline on the island’s northern tip. The open-air space offers panoramic sunset views of Prickly Pear Island.
“Katsuya Beach represents an exciting new chapter for Hodges Bay Resort & Spa and Antigua’s culinary scene,” said Christopher Eastmond, General Manager of Hodges Bay Resort & Spa, part of the HQ Collection by sbe, in a press statement. “We’re proud to introduce such an internationally recognized dining concept to the island of Antigua and to become part of Katsuya’s continued legacy, while further elevating our guest experience through constant innovation and pairing that with the warmth, culture and hospitality the Caribbean is known for”.
A New Star in Antigua’s Culinary Lineup
The menu pairs Katsuya’s Japanese foundations with Caribbean coastal ingredients. Signature dishes include Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, Baked Crab Hand Rolls and island-forward options such as Local Lobster Ceviche, Grilled Local Lobster with Shichimi Butter and Crispy Local Fish with Tobanjan Mint Sauce. The sushi and sashimi selection includes specialty rolls such as the Surf & Turf Roll with seared filet mignon and truffle ponzu, along with entrees including Miso-Glazed Salmon, Angus Filet Mignon and Tomahawk Short Rib. Desserts include Brown Butter Glazed Donuts with coconut cream sauce and mango jam and Miso Chocolate Cake served with vanilla ice cream and fresh berries.
The design draws on Japanese minimalism and the aesthetic of the Caribbean coast. A sculptural wood installation runs the length of the ceiling, shaped to suggest the movement of a wave and direct the eye toward the water. Low lighting, dark finishes, Japanese motifs and palm imprints give the dining room a moody character. The setting puts guests steps from the white-sand beach, with the shoreline in view.
Katsuya Beach opens as the brand marks its 20th anniversary. The first Katsuya location debuted in Brentwood in 2006, followed by expansion to Downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood and Century City. International growth brought the brand to Baha Mar in The Bahamas and now to Antigua, its first Caribbean outpost.
For more information, visit hodgesbay.net.
