Asterid—the newest restaurant from Chef Ray Garcia is now open for dinner service. Located in front of The Music Center’s Walt Disney Concert Hall, the new restaurant delivers California-inspired cuisine in sophisticated dining, bar, and lounge settings, continuing Chef Garcia’s culinary narrative of the Angeleno dining experience in his native Los Angeles.
“Asterid seeks to bring people together and connect them through both the comfort of the familiar and the excitement of the new,” shared Garcia in a statement. “Our bright, bold, ingredient-driven Modern American menu celebrates Los Angeles culinary diversity, as well as my relationship with some of the finest quality local growers and producers.”
The restaurant’s name comes from the largest group of flowering plants, ranging from colorful vegetables and fragrant herbs to radiant florals. Its menu features local, hyper-seasonal ingredients that come together using evolved culinary traditions and techniques to create a familial dining experience for groups large and small. Highlights from the opening menu include:
· Sunchoke Rösti –Sunflower Crème Fraiche, Strawberry Pepper Jam
· Risotto – Red Beet Carnaroli, Crème Fraiche, Dill
· Maitake Mushrooms – Turmeric Aioli, Fried Lemon, Parsley
· Lamb Shank – Charred Eggplant Puree, Warm Flatbread, Pickled Chiles
· Shortcake – Harry’s Berries, Hibiscus Angel Food Cake, Vanilla Cream
Asterid’s beverage program—led by Bar Director Chris Chernock — complements Chef Garcia’s menu with classic cocktails, some featuring locally crafted spirits from Arts District distillery The Spirit Guild; zero-proof creations; locally brewed beer; and an extensive wine list. Signature selections from the opening menu include:
· Tequila & Passion Fruit – Lalo Tequila Blanco, pineapple, passion fruit, hibiscus, falernum
· Daiquiri – Paranubes Oaxacan Rum, Saison Rum, pineapple, demerara
· Coconut Milk Punch – Lyre’s Cane Spirit, lemon, pineapple, black tea, baking spices
Asterid is open for dinner Tuesday-Thursday from 5:30-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 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.
