Last Updated on May 20, 2024 by Team Mystery Flavours
Discover the heart and soul of Filipino-American cuisine at Lasa Restaurant, a beloved gem nestled in downtown LA. From its cozy neighborhood ambiance to the rich narrative woven into each delectable dish, Lasa Restaurant offered a dining experience that transcended mere culinary delight.
Immerse yourself in the captivating tale of Lasa Restaurant, a story characterized by resilience, fervor, and a deep sense of Filipino heritage. In the summer of 2013, Chef Chad Valencia and his brother Chase embarked on a culinary journey, starting with intimate backyard gatherings for loved ones. These gatherings, inspired by fond memories of familial feasts and traditional home-cooked meals, aimed to evoke a sense of communal warmth through shared plates of flavorful fare.
Their vision soon gained momentum as they transitioned from backyard dinners to hosting pop-up events at local cafes and breweries. As word spread of their innovative Filipino California small plates, so did their popularity. The Valencia brothers’ dedication to their craft and their cultural roots resonated deeply with diners, propelling them toward greater culinary heights.
In a pivotal moment in 2017, after numerous successful pop-ups, the Valencia brothers found a permanent home for Lasa Restaurant at Unit 120, a culinary hub in Downtown LA’s vibrant Arts District. With the guidance of esteemed Chef Alvin Cailan, Lasa Restaurant flourished, serving up its distinctive fare four nights a week. It marked a significant milestone in the journey of the passionate siblings, showcasing their unwavering commitment to their culinary vision.
However, as Lasa Restaurant continued to capture the hearts and palates of diners, its physical space at Unit 120 proved insufficient for its expanding fan base. In late 2021, with bittersweet sentiment, Lasa Restaurant bid farewell to its beloved patrons, closing its doors as the Valencia brothers prepared for the next chapter of their culinary odyssey.
Though Lasa Restaurant may no longer grace downtown LA with its presence, the legacy of its flavors and the inspiration it ignited lives on. Wherever Chef Chad and Chase Valencia’s culinary endeavors may lead them next, one thing remains certain – their innovative cuisine will continue to leave an indelible mark, just as it did in the heart of LA.
While Lasa Restaurant’s doors are closed, memories of its exceptional fare and warm hospitality linger on. During its operational days, food enthusiasts delighted in savoring the unique fusion of Filipino-Californian flavors, often indulging in the convenience of ordering their favorite dishes straight to their doorsteps through various delivery platforms
