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VOL 16. NO. 10 APRIL 28TH - MAY 4TH, 2022 DTLAWEEKLY.COM 9
the return of super chef
D
ray garcia
TLA super Chef Ray Garcia is back with Asterid— the newest restaurant a top Bunker Hill. This go round, performance art will provide the backdrop with the Music Center and Walt Disney Concert Hall just outside of Garcia’s new sophisticated dining, bar, and lounge setting. For those who remember the flavors and hospitality of the award-winning Chef from his previous Downtown adventurers Broken Spanish and BS Taqueria, thoughts of basking in the refined glow of an indoor dining room during an intimate dinner are as pleasant as Asterid’s fresh aromas. “Asterid seeks to bring people together and connect them through both the comfort of the familiar and the excitement of the new,” shares Garcia. “Our bright, bold, ingredientdriven Modern American menu celebrates Los Angeles culinary diversity, as well as my relationship with some of the finest quality local growers and producers.” ASTERID ...What's in a Name? The restaurant’s name comes from the largest group of flowering plants, ranging from colorful vegetables and fragrant herbs to radiant florals.
The menu features Chef Garcia’s signature vibrant flavors and lively ingredients. Yet, the menu is also unexpected, easily adding Asterid to the list of best restaurants in Downtown. Noticeable choices include Sunchoke Rösti with Sunflower Crème Fraiche, and Strawberry Pepper Jam, Risotto with Red Beet Carnaroli, Crème Fraiche, and fresh Dill, and Lamb Shank with Charred Eggplant Puree, Warm Flatbread, and Pickled Chiles. Bar Director Chris Chernock complements Chef Garcia’s menu with reimagined classic cocktails, some featuring locally crafted spirits, locally brewed beer; and an extensive wine list.
From Belzberg Architects, Asterid’s design offers an intentional, warm, and modern feeling. From Downtown’s Grand Avenue, guests enter through a newly extended, expansive wraparound outdoor patio transitioning into indoor-outdoor lounge seating. Inside, an illuminated statement bar visually connects the kitchen with the rest of the space, including the contemporary dining room featuring floor-to-ceiling windows. Asterid is open for dinner TuesdayThursday from 5:30-10 p.m., FridaySaturday from 5:30-11 p.m., and Sunday from 5:30-10 p.m., with plans to expand offerings and hours in the coming months. @asteridla
