Kenji
5-Course Opulent Omakase Tasting Event
Opened in 2023 in the International House Hotel, this outstanding eatery hopped right onto Eater’s Lists of “Best NOLA Restaurants” and “Best Sushi Restaurants.” Kenji embraces the traditional Japanese omakase experience, in which every dish is a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and colors. Chef Matthew Nguyen grew up in the Vietnamese community in New Orleans East, fell in love with sushi early, and earned his stripes working at restaurants such as Ninja, Rock-n-Sake, and Yakuza House. While working at the latter as head chef, he often prepared sushi for Malachi Dupre, the former LSU and NFL player, and the two joined forces to create Kenzi, where the freshest of fish speaks for itself. Here, diners find supernal versions of all the customary omakase fare, from hand rolls to maki, sashimi, the steamed egg custard dish known as chawanmushi, and so much more. “One of the most exciting new sushi restaurants to open in years…Chef Nguyen is a master at his craft,” raves Eater. We can’t wait to visit and hope to see you there!
About the Host:

Matthew Nguyen
Chef/Owner
Chef Matthew Nguyen grew up in the New Orleans East Vietnamese community, where he fell in love with sushi at an early age. After honing his craft at beloved NOLA spots such as Yakuza House, Ninja, and Rock-n-Sake, he and former LSU and NFL player Malachi Dupre opened Kenji.
The Lineup
All courses will be individually plated. This menu will be Dairy, Mushroom, and Nut Free and some courses have been marked spicy. For the list of restrictions Chef is accommodating, scroll to the bottom of this page.
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Hamachi Crudo
yellowtail, basil oil, orange supreme, yuzu ponzu
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Royal Miyagi Oyster
yuzu, pickled wasabi
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Tsukiji Nigiri
chef's choice of dry-aged japanese fish
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Japanese Lamb Chops
housemade sesame soy, bed of greens
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Beignet Trio
pistachio & matcha | strawberry & cream | ube & blueberry
Kenji
217 Camp St
New Orleans, LA 70130
Event FAQs
- Do guests need to be of a certain age to attend this event?
- Yes. All attendees must be 21+ to gain entry.
- Does this restaurant allow BYOB?
- No. This restaurant is a non-BYO establishment. Outside alcohol will not be permitted at this event.
- What is the event ticket cancellation/refund policy?
- Restaurants purchase the food for our events 14 days before the event date, at which point we are on the hook for the cost of your ticket. As such, we are not able to offer refunds (or credits towards future events) for any cancellation requests submitted within 14 days of the event date. We will, however, issue full refunds for all cancellation requests submitted at least 14 days before the event date. All cancellation requests must be submitted via email to support@tastingcollective.com.
- What dietary restrictions/food allergies can be accommodated at this event?
- Due to the large-format nature of our events, restaurants are not able to accommodate all dietary restrictions/food allergies or make any menu adjustments based on food preferences (e.g distaste for specific ingredients/flavor profiles). This restaurant will be offering substitutions exclusively for the following restrictions/allergies: Pescatarian and Gluten. If you have any of these restrictions/allergies, please make sure to note this in your profile (in the “Event Preferences” section) either before or right after purchasing your tickets so Chef can prepare accordingly.
- Will this event be handicap acccessible?
- According to the restaurant, this event is handicap accessible. If applicable however, please email support@tastingcollective.com with your needs to ensure proper accommodations.