Inside Ōwa: How Mario Vollera’s Culinary Journey Led to Venice’s Go-To Sushi Spot
From Europe to Venice, Mario Vollera has built a restaurant empire fueled by passion, grit, and incredible food. His latest venture, Ōwa, is redefining sushi on Abbot Kinney Blvd with standout rolls, A5 wagyu, and mezcal cocktails. Read on to discover his journey, menu favorites, and what it really takes to run a successful restaurant.
Some people dream of opening a restaurant. For Mario Vollera, the restaurant life found him. From his early days working in kitchens across Europe to running multiple successful spots in the U.S., Vollera has built his career on seizing opportunities and creating spaces where great food and hospitality come together. His latest venture, Ōwa, located in the heart of Venice on Abbot Kinney Blvd, is a sushi haven that blends respect for Japanese tradition with a fresh, California touch.
A Life in Restaurants
Vollera’s journey started young—at just 16, he was already cooking in kitchens. His passion took him through various roles, from studying wine to becoming a sushi chef and even mastering pizza-making. “I did everything you can imagine,” he says. “It’s more than just passion—it’s my life.”
By his 20s, Vollera was managing and opening restaurants across Europe. When he moved to the U.S. at 33, the opportunities kept coming. Over the years, he has opened five restaurants in the States and currently operates three, including the well-known Roosterfish Bar in Venice. Ōwa is his latest project, a restaurant that brings an elevated yet welcoming sushi experience to the neighborhood he has called home for 16 years.
Bringing Ōwa to Venice
Venice wasn’t just a business decision for Vollera—it was personal. “I chose to come here,” he explains. “I wasn’t born here, but I fell in love with the neighborhood. When the opportunity for this space came up, I knew it was the right move.”
Ōwa took over the location of the beloved Bābī Sābi, a well-known sushi spot. Instead of completely reinventing the space, Vollera honored its roots while putting his own stamp on it. “We’re very happy. We do good business, and people can really come together here.”
What to Order at Ōwa
Ōwa’s menu is filled with must-try dishes that showcase both quality ingredients and careful preparation. Vollera is especially proud of the restaurant’s happy hour offerings, where guests can enjoy some of the best mezcal cocktails in Venice without breaking the bank.
As for sushi, there are a few standouts:
Abbot Kinney Roll – A signature roll featuring yellowtail, salmon, and spicy tuna, named after the street where Ōwa resides.
Crispy Rice – A twist on the classic, featuring a vegetarian-friendly version with avocado and charcoal for a delicate yet flavorful bite.
Spicy Hotate Roll – A customer favorite made with scallop tartare and a spicy kick.
Miso Cod – Inspired by Japanese culinary legend Nobu, but with Ōwa’s own marinade technique.
For Vollera personally, his top picks are the Japanese fried chicken (karaage) and the A5 wagyu steak. “We’re very proud of it,” he says. “A beautiful cut, cooked perfectly.”
The Reality of Running a Restaurant
While the food is at the center of everything, Vollera knows that the restaurant business is about much more. He emphasizes the importance of building a great team. “My guests are important, but my employees? Maybe even more. Some have been with me for 10 years. They’re the ones fighting with us every day.”
He’s also brutally honest about the challenges of owning a restaurant. “It’s not for everyone. You don’t just own a restaurant—you’re a plumber, a chef, an electrician, an accountant. You have to do it all.” His biggest piece of advice for aspiring restaurateurs? “Don’t do it.” He laughs but means it. “Work in the industry first. If you still love it after a few years, then maybe you’re meant for it.”
Looking Ahead
Ōwa has quickly established itself as a standout sushi destination in Venice, and with Vollera’s track record, it’s clear this restaurant will be a lasting part of the community. Whether you’re stopping by for happy hour, indulging in the Abbot Kinney Roll, or savoring a beautifully prepared wagyu steak, Ōwa delivers an experience that’s as authentic as it is exciting.