Palm Desert, CA

Yozu Asian Bistro, a new restaurant blending the shareable-plates culture of Tokyo’s traditional izakaya with Desert Modern design, is set to open Aug. 26 at The Shops on El Paseo.

The restaurant will occupy the former Shorebird Restaurant space at Monterey Avenue and Highway 74/El Paseo, a location that offers free parking behind the building. An izakaya is a Japanese-style gathering spot where guests order a range of shareable dishes alongside cocktails, often as a stop after shopping. Yozu’s menu will center on small, contemporary plates, sushi, sake and handcrafted cocktails meant to be enjoyed in a group setting.

“We’re excited to welcome Yozu Asian Bistro to The Shops on El Paseo,” said Fred Fern. “Yozu brings an exciting new dining concept that complements The Shops’ vibrant mix of shopping, entertainment, and exceptional restaurants. It’s the perfect place for visitors and locals alike to gather, share a meal, and experience something new.”

Upstairs from the main dining room, an open sushi bar called Cherry Blossoms will offer freshly prepared hand rolls and nigiri alongside a curated sake selection. The space draws its design inspiration from the cherry blossom, a symbol of beauty and renewal in Japanese culture.

Yozu’s menu was developed by the culinary team behind Mole Mexican Kitchen and the broader Wild Thyme Group restaurant portfolio, with dishes influenced by the cuisines of Japan, Korea, China and Southeast Asia. Planned menu items include wok-fired shaking beef, Kurobuta pork belly fried rice, twice-fried chicken, citrus achiote pad thai, Korean fried wings, sticky ribs and pork belly buns, all offered at approachable price points for sharing.

The beverage program will feature signature cocktails built around fresh citrus, stone fruit and agave, along with a selection of California cult wines intended to complement the menu’s bold flavors.

More information on Yozu Asian Bistro is available at yozubistro.com. Details on The Shops on El Paseo can be found at theshopsonelpaseo.com and chartwellproperties.net.