Chifa is the most stylish restaurant in Los Angeles. At first, I questioned that statement, wondering if it were too bold, but then I sat deep in thought considering who the other contenders could possibly be. I couldn’t think of one I’d put before it. There have been but a few times I have walked into a restaurant and was completely gobsmacked: Sketch in London where I enjoyed high tea in a plush pink paradise and Hueso in Guadalajara, where I had the pleasure of photographing bone-covered walls against a completely white backdrop. At Chifa, I was blown away by the design and decor. It should come as no surprise considering Humberto Leon of Opening Ceremony is one of the driving forces at his new family-owned restaurant. All praise is due to the thoughtfulness and elevated taste that is in the main dining room. Every piece of the restaurant is custom-made, even more thrilling is that it’s all available for purchase. A shoppable restaurant if you will. Can we expect this to be a new wave of dining? Only time will tell. The interior plays on a monochromatic theme of green hues – aqua, turquoise, seafoam, moss, crocodile, emerald. Heart shapes are abundant. The decor reminded me of my riot grrrrl days but elevated to maximum levels of punk rock chic. It’s pure feminine edge and I absolutely loved it.

Dining at Chifa left me feeling energized about the future of restaurants in Los Angeles. The business’s commitment to community also made me hopeful about the world during one of its darkest times. I walked in as a stranger but was immediately made to feel like a friend. From the owners to chefs to waitstaff, I was taken on a journey into a world where people care about sharing the highest quality of the things they love. This is a restaurant built from joy, pride, and connectivity. It’s a place where I look forward to seeing what happens next.

The Food

Generational recipes that span Cantonese/Taiwanese/Peruvian heritage. I enjoyed a lovely meal at Chifa earlier this year and have been excited to return, Here’s what we ordered listed from our favorites down:

Brûlée Char Siu

Seasonal Vegetables (cauliflower, woodear mushrooms, green onions)

Nunchi Jelly Corn for dessert

Dan Dan Mian

Si Yao Chicken

When I say that the Brûlée Char Siu is a must-order, heed my call! It consists of wood-fired pork toro (fatty cheek) marinated in a house-made Chinese BBQ sauce. A dish so delicious and packed with robust pork flavor that you’ll consider ordering a second plate. I regret not doing so. I can still taste it on my tongue as I write this. I’ll return to Chifa for this craving alone! The seasonal market vegetables were also bright with flavor. I consider this one of the best cauliflower dishes I’ve enjoyed at a restaurant since the cruciferous vegetable became über trendy. This dish deserves a round of applause.

Much to my excitement, Chifa has been collaborating with local sweets maker, NÜNCHI, whose food I first enjoyed at Murmurs back in 2019. I had the pleasure of enjoying one of her special cakes on a boat for my birthday last year. I’ve been a fan. During year 2 of the pandemic, I watched rainbow of Chifa x NÜNCHI corns drift across my phone screen. I was eager to try one. The delightful pink corn-shaped strawberry coconut jelly was accompanied by a tiny carafe of condensed milk. It made for a memorable end to an already delightful dinner as we drizzled the sweet liquid over our gelatinous treat. Let’s bring more fun like this to the dining experience! A piping hot pot of silk oolong tea was the perfect addition to a sweet fantasy turned reality.

The Scene

If you love fashion and design, wear one of your best looks when entering heaven in Eagle Rock. The Linda Lindas, Usher, Ali Wong, Solange, and Kim Gordon have all enjoyed some of Chifa’s best but make no mistake, this is a restaurant for everyone. Come as you are.

Price & Service

Entrées range from $15 - $33, Desserts Under $10, Cocktails ~$13

Hospitality has been on my mind more so than ever and Chifa delivers superb service. When dining, it felt like our every need was warmly met while simultaneously making us feel like a close friend or family member. That’s what home feels like – warm, comforting, and everything is done with care. There is a genuine environment of love and friendliness at Chifa and I am sure that’s largely due to the staff being related. It’s clear everyone has chosen to be here. You can feel the sincerity and dedication to craft, rare qualities in this modern world.

Location

Chifa
4374 Eagle Rock Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90041
+1 (323) 561-3084

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