Los Angeles Dining

Fabulous Dining Experience at Chaya Brasserie in LA – April 19th, 2003

Dining at Chaya Brasserie in Beverly Hills is like being on vacation in two phenomenal but completely different places simultaneously. Think classy, sophisticated urban-chic. Now think warm, natural and laid back.

The morphing of both of these visions, along with the restaurant’s high ceiling, wood framing asymmetrical lines, walls adorned with Asian-flavored art, and indoor plants give one a feeling of timelessness amid rich, exotic beauty. The mood is quite vibrant, eclectic and inviting yet tranquil and full of great ambiance

We started with some incredible sushi and appetizers. Highly recommended are the Famous Dragon Roll(Spicy-Tuna/Eel/Cucumber/Avacado), Spicy Lobster Roll, Soft Shell Crab Roll, and the Tuna Tartar. Other great suggestions are the Salmon Salad, Goat Cheese Salad, and popular Duck & Mango Salad with Duck and Veggie Spring Rolls. If you are in the mood, try some Escargot or some fresh pasta appetizer dishes made to order.

Chaya’s French/Italian/Pan-Asian-infused cuisine takes this exotic timelessness to the next level. On a recent visit we tried five of the main courses: three fish, the Filet Mignon and the Lamb. The Black Cod was extremely tasty, with succulent, flaky meat. The Blue Fin Ahi Tuna was moist, tender and delicate, accompanied by a rich and spicy jalapeno-shrimp fritter. The mild, simple Halibut was tender and juicy, offset by a wild explosion of sweet corn, fava beans and saffron rice. The tender, fall-off-the-bone Filet Mignon was perfectly cooked, accompanied by pungent, sharp wasabi mashed potatoes. The rich and savory Lamb was served with a flavorful rustic bell-peppery rice.

The decadent desserts all had unique and gorgeous presentations. Even the green tea had a beautiful nutty aroma. The ginger crème brulee was especially rich and delicious; as were the warm chocolate chip cookies served with dense Frangelica crème; the delicious warm apple tart and the always-popular signature dessert – Banana-Banana-Banana.

Chaya’s first-rate wine list is extensive; its dessert beverage menu including grappas, muscats, cordials and liqueurs is filled with tantalizing selections; and its gourmet martini menu is nothing short of magnificent (be sure to try the guava martini!).

Chaya Brasserie is located at 8741 Alden Drive right off Robertson Blvd. in LA just outside Beverly Hills. Lunch is from 11:30am-2:30pm(M-F); Dinner starts at 6pm every night; Sushi Happy Hour is from 5-8 during the week and 5:30-8pm on weekends; Even late supper times from 10:30-11:30(Tuesday-Thursday) and 11pm-midnight on Friday and Saturday. For Reservations, please call (310)859-8833 or visit their website for more information at www.thechaya.com

This summer is their 20th year anniversary so be a part of this great dining experience. Besides their great Mother’s Day Brunch, there will be a Summer Festival on July 20th at the Restaurant so make your plans soon.