-- KAVIAR Restaurants is proud to celebrate its five-year anniversary, marking a major milestone in redefining luxury dining in Pasadena and Los Angeles. Since its opening in 2020, Kaviar has established itself as one of Southern California’s premier destinations for fine dining, known for its world-class ingredients, curated omakase experiences, and striking atmosphere that blends Japanese artistry with modern exclusivity.
Founded by Tigran Oganessian, alongside partners Dennis L. Smith, Kazembe Ajamu, and Executive Chef Tengis Itka, Kaviar was created with a clear vision: to go beyond a traditional restaurant and craft an immersive experience where food, atmosphere, and service come together to form unforgettable moments. “Kaviar was created to be more than a restaurant,” says Oganessian. “We envisioned a place where luxury, art, and culinary mastery come together to create moments that guests will never forget.”
The menu features the world’s most coveted flavors, including A5 Wagyu, uni, truffle, and caviar, alongside refined sushi and sashimi prepared with exceptional precision. In August 2025, Kaviar expanded its offerings by introducing a signature line of steaks, adding a new dimension to its luxury menu. Guests also enjoy the omakase experience, where Executive Chef Tengis Itka guides diners through a personalized journey of seasonal ingredients that highlight both tradition and innovation.
Kaviar’s environment is as much a part of the experience as the food itself. Its dark, moody interiors accented with gold details create an atmosphere that has become a magnet for celebrities, influencers, and travelers alike. The private caviar room provides exclusivity for VIP gatherings, while the opulent main dining spaces host corporate dinners, brand launches, charity galas, holiday celebrations, and milestone events.
Launching in a competitive Los Angeles dining market presented challenges from the start. Sourcing rare ingredients like premium caviar, Wagyu, and seasonal delicacies required precision and global coordination. Building trust with a discerning clientele and positioning Kaviar as more than a restaurant, as a destination for luxury dining and high-end private events, also demanded vision and consistency. These early challenges laid the foundation for what Kaviar has become today: a restaurant synonymous with excellence.
Recognition soon followed. One of Kaviar’s biggest early wins was widespread media attention from outlets such as Forbes, Los Angeles Times, Eater LA, Thrillist, Infatuation, Tasting Table, and Pasadena Star-News. Being featured alongside some of the most respected names in dining validated the founders’ vision and helped position Kaviar as a leader in luxury Japanese-inspired cuisine.
In August 2025, Kaviar celebrated its anniversary with another defining moment. The restaurant and its leadership team received official certificates of recognition from the California State Legislature, the U.S. Congress, the City of Pasadena, and the California State Treasurer. Each partner, including Oganessian, Smith, Ajamu, and Itka, was individually recognized by the California State Assembly for their contributions to culinary excellence, innovation, and community enrichment. This level of acknowledgment underscored Kaviar’s role not only as a fine dining destination but also as a cultural institution in Pasadena and Los Angeles.
Founder Tigran Oganessian credits the restaurant’s success to one simple principle: an unwavering focus on the guest. “From the moment a guest walks through our doors, every detail matters, from the atmosphere to the service and of course the food,” he says. “We don’t just serve dinner; we create an exceptional experience where people feel valued, inspired, and part of something extraordinary.”
Executive Chef Tengis Itka echoes this sentiment. “Our mission is to honor Japanese tradition while elevating it with the rarest ingredients. Through omakase, we connect with our guests by showcasing creativity, seasonality, and respect for the craft.”
Kaviar’s dedicated team of 30 employees plays a vital role in ensuring the consistency and excellence that define the brand. Each team member contributes to an environment where precision, hospitality, and artistry intersect.
Looking forward, Kaviar’s objective is to continue delivering extraordinary experiences in Pasadena and Los Angeles while expanding into new markets nationwide and, eventually, globally. Plans include locations in Dallas and Scottsdale, markets chosen for their affluent dining communities and demand for luxury culinary experiences. With its full liquor license on the way, Kaviar will soon feature rare Japanese whiskies, exclusive spirits, and an exceptional wine collection, further enhancing its reputation as a leader in fine dining.
Over the past five years, Kaviar has become a destination for affluent diners, travelers seeking Michelin-style dining, luxury event hosts, and celebrities looking for unforgettable nights. Its combination of culinary artistry, immersive atmosphere, and global recognition has cemented its place as one of Southern California’s most celebrated dining destinations.
As the restaurant reflects on its journey, the team extends gratitude to its loyal guests, friends, and partners who have supported Kaviar from the beginning. The anniversary is not just a milestone but a reminder of the vision that started it all: to make every visit a statement of luxury.
For more information, visit https://kaviarrestaurants.com.
Contact Info:
Name: Kaviar
Email: Send Email
Organization: KAVIAR Restaurants
Address: 70 N Raymond Ave , Pasadena, California 91103, United States
Website: https://kaviarrestaurants.com/
Release ID: 89170004