The Kollaboration EMPOWER Conference is a two day event at the Japanese American National Museum where aspiring Asian Americans of all ages and professions gather to learn directly from some of the community’s most inspirational professionals. At EMPOWER, attendees will be able to explore a variety of creative career paths, industries, and best practices to apply to making their dreams a reality. This unique experience will bridge communities, generations, industries, and innovative minds.
My 37th birthday was largely celebrated at ROW DTLA. First came lunch with colleagues at Pikunico, followed by dessert at The Manufactory, and dinner with a girlfriend at Tartine Bianco. There is no doubt in my mind that I am the target demographic for this urban renewal development, which delights and disgusts me all at once. But here we are.
In this minimally appointed and naturally lit dining room, Chef Kuniko Yagi serves up Japanese-style fried chicken in a fast-casual setting. She previously made fancier and pricier food at the now-closed Sona in West Hollywood and at Hinoki and the Bird in Century City.
Even though the restaurant was positively buzzing at this time of day, food arrived nice and fast. I ordered the combination platter, which included a thigh, a wing, and two tenders, as well as house-made pickles. On the saucy side of things was a trio of dips: a daikon ponzu oroshi, a lemon aioli, and a parsley sesame number.
The Astronomer, June, and I finally made our way to Koreatown for brunch at Here’s Looking At You this past weekend. The restaurant started serving daytime fare last May, and the menu is as solid as ever—all hits, no misses, promise.
While most restaurants don’t put too much creativity into their brunch menus, relying on standbys like buttermilk pancakes, eggs Benedict, and Bloody Marys to fuel crowds, chef Jonathan Whitener is bringing fresh ideas and energy to the table.
The first dish to arrive was the whippiest, lightest chicken liver toast ($12). To reel in the richness were Basque peppers and a touch of smoked maple.