LAReview
photo credit: Jakob Layman
Lasita
Included In
A great night at a restaurant can sometimes take a little time to develop. Drinks need to be ordered, the waitstaff has to get through their rehearsed bits—all while you and your table try to silently suss out what kind of meal this is going to be.
At Lasita, there is no such wind-up. Because from the second you walk into this Filipino spot in Chinatown—and clock the big tables of friends drinking funky orange wine together and feasting on whole chicken—you realize the party is already in full swing.
This colorful rotisserie/wine bar is technically the second iteration of Lasa, the slightly more formal Filipino concept that had occupied the same Far East Plaza space starting in 2017. It was quite popular and we included it in our Best New Restaurants of 2017, but eventually, the two brothers who run the place decided it was time to change things up.
photo credit: Jakob Layman
Words like “pared down” and “simplified” can sometimes feel back-handed in describing a restaurant, but when we use it in regards to Lasita, it’s the opposite. Sure, the menu is smaller now (it’s essentially giant platters of meat like chicken inasal and pork belly lechon, plus an array of excellent rotating sides), but in streamlining, Lasita has created an experience free from the usual structure. Dinner here is highlighted by interesting, communal-style dishes that taste incredible, a joyous lack of having to make decisions (or reservations), and a deep respect for the art of hanging out as long as you want.
Want to order a few bottles of natural wine with friends first and put in for a branzino a half-hour later? Go right ahead. Dining solo and low on time? Your server will make sure your chicken plate comes out quickly. Maybe you’re on a date that’s going better than expected and neither of you want to leave. Feel free to add and revise your order at any cadence you see fit. At Lasita, the only rule is there are no rules. And those are always the best kind of parties.
Food Rundown
photo credit: Jakob Layman
Chicken Inasal
photo credit: Jakob Layman
Pancit Kang Kong
Sizzlin' Shroom Sisig
Beef Tartare
photo credit: Jakob Layman
Pork Belly Lechon
photo credit: Jakob Layman