The editors at Eater LA are known for their extensive dining experiences, often eating out multiple times a week. This week, they have highlighted some standout dishes that truly deserve attention, showcasing the vibrant food culture in Los Angeles.
One of the standout dishes comes from Kato’s Summer Series, where chef Evan Funke collaborated with the popular restaurant in Downtown LA. The latest event featured a creative twist on traditional flavors with a dish called xiao long bao tortelloni. This exquisite creation featured a single, meticulously folded pasta pouch filled with savory pork and prawn, all encased in a delicate outer layer that boasted a rich broth inside. Diners were treated to this dish amidst a lively atmosphere, with hip-hop tunes playing and chefs unleashing their culinary creativity for an elevated yet relaxed dining experience.
Just as compelling is the dry pepper fried tofu from Mala Class in Highland Park. Nestled in a jewel-box-like space, this Sichuan restaurant offers an array of dishes that exceed expectations given its modest size. The highlight was undoubtedly the crispy dry pepper fried tofu, perfectly seasoned with Sichuan spices. The exterior was fried to a crisp while the interior remained soft, achieving a delightful contrast in texture. Each bite was addictive, compelling diners to reach for more.
In the Arts District, Happies Hand Made has quickly made a name for itself with its smoked double-fried chicken wings. Chef Joshua Skenes, known for his former three-Michelin-star restaurant experience, serves up wings that stand out for their juiciness and satisfying crunch. Coated with a flavorful salsa macha and dried chile seasoning, the chicken is served on a golden-brown waffle. Customers have been lining up for this comfort food, drawn by both the quality of the offerings and the reasonable price point.
Another culinary collaboration that impressed was the Baja tuna tower featured during a special dinner with Crossroads and Koast in Hollywood. Chef Tal Ronnen brought creativity to the table, presenting a vegan interpretation of several classic dishes from Koast like a watermelon crudo and a lobster mushroom cake. However, the dish that had everyone talking was the Baja tuna tower, which highlighted luxe Baja bluefin tuna layered harmoniously with creamy avocado and topped with a generous amount of tobiko fish eggs. This beautiful dish not only impressed in looks but also in flavor, providing a fresh bite of the ocean that diners couldn’t resist.
These four standout dishes represent just a fragment of the culinary landscape thriving in Los Angeles. From innovative flavors to comforting classics, each bite tells a story of the chefs’ dedication and the city’s gastronomic vibrancy. Eater LA’s exploration continues to reveal the expansive and diverse offerings that make this city a true epicenter for food lovers.
Stay tuned for more delicious updates from Eater LA as they uncover additional culinary gems across Southern California.
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