DTLA: The Beer Garden Returns and New Kaisen Menu at Chaya
Beer garden at Chaya DTLA
Chaya Downtown’s annual summer beer garden is back! From now until August 29, the popular series features skewers grilled on an imported Japanese hibachi grill and boozy sno-cones. Mix and match from that menu, the classic bar menu and kaisen menu and you got yourself the ultimate summer hang. Bonus if you come during happy hour and there are even more goodies to try.
kaisen platter
The kaisen platter is a magnificent way to kick things off. The seafood fest features oysters, scallops, tuna, albacore, halibut and my favorite, the lobster tempura roll. It was so much fun discovering each and every little bit of it.
Two Tone Melon aka Nama
Chaya is introducing “bocktails” which are beer cocktails. Bock as in beer. The Two Tone Melon otherwise known as the Nama, was beautiful. It’s honeydew mixed with Kirin beer.
kushiyaki skewers
Getting the kushiyaki skewers is a must at the beer garden. Order the sampler to try them all or order your favorites. My faves are the tongue and mushrooms.
baked oysters and scallops
We had to try all the new small plates including the baked oysters and scallops. It’s got a spicy kick from the sriracha sauce.
tandoori spiced shrimp brochette
I love how Chaya isn’t afraid to mix seasoning from other cultures. The shrimp brochette has a bit of Indian flair with cucumber raita. Also try the fish tacos (not shown) with wasabi.
cedar plank mackerel
If you like a substantial cooked fish portion, check out the cedar plank mackerel. Mackerel is one of my favorite flavorful fish.
soy glazed chicken tsukune
Once I saw the tsukune, I knew what it was right away. Meatball! Chaya does a version with chicken topped with a poached egg. It’s a little of what came first? The chicken or the egg?
galbi
And a nod to Korean cooking, we had the galbi. I really enjoyed the bean sprouts under the tender steak. It really reminded me of Korean BBQ as it was flavored with Korean hot sauce; gochujang.
Check out Chaya Downtown all night until Friday this week for $1 oyster specials. Plus there will be a DJ on July 10 and August 7th.
Summer Beer Garden Until August 29
525 S. Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071 — 213-236-9577
© The Minty 2014