Happy Hour sushi rolls? Fine, you twisted my arm
I know summer is officially here for three reasons: most of my drinking occurs during daylight, I can’t bring myself to wear anything besides shorts, t-shirts and rainbow sandals, and Chaya Downtown’s patio has once again been converted into a beautiful Japanese beer garden.
Beef tongue, mushroom, & date skewers ($2-3)
The menu hasn’t changed much from last year, but you won’t be hearing any complaints from me because it’s affordable and delicious. OK, fine, I do have one complaint: they aren’t offering my favorite dish from last year, but that’s because the coffee BBQ pork stayed on the menu looooong after the Beer Garden concluded last year.
King Salmon Sashimi Salad $6
Fearless Sake Flight $14
You can’t come without trying at least one skewer cooked on a yakitori grill, but since meat on a stick is not exactly a balanced diet, order the King Salmon Sashimi Salad to add some ruffage to your diet.
When it’s time to wash it all down, you can of course get beer and cocktails, but I’d recommend trying a flight of sake. I like my sake on the dry side, so the fearless flight was a no-brainer.
Spicy Tuna & Shishito Pepper Tempura 7$
I love shishito peppers, so this was a must order for me. By the time it reached my table and took a bite, I completely forgot it was stuffed with spicy tuna. It was a pleasant surprise, to say the least.
Grilled White Corn with Feta Cheese $5
Do not skip the corn. Creamy, crunchy, and a little spicy. I’ll take another, please.
Brussels Sprouts
One item not on the menu last year that I tried was the brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts are having a moment here in LA and this version yielded a lovely crunch with the addition of citrus bringing out more subtle flavors.
Once again, Chaya Downtown transformed their patio into a beautiful spot to grab inexpensive eats and sip on beer, sake, and cocktails after a long day of work.
CHAYA Downtown
525 S. Flower Street, Los Angeles
Monday through Friday, 4 pm – close
Through Aug. 31, 2012
Note: This meal was hosted
