Restaurants open non-stop in Los Angeles, it’s impossible to keep up. How am I supposed to know which live up to the hype and which aren’t worth my time? I usually let restaurants simmer for a bit, let friends check them out and go by word of mouth, instead of restaurant reviews. So, when a number of people raved about Lukshon (pronounced Luke-Sean) by Sang Yoon (including a complete stranger I was buying a bathrobe from) I knew it was time to check it out for myself.
My husband and I grabbed a table in the partially covered fire pit area best suited for a party of two – larger groups should grab a semi-circular booth or big table inside. We put in orders for wine by the glass and looked over the current menu options. Everything is designed to be shared, ideally by two people. I’m not sure how larger groups equitably divide portions other than to order more – never a bad idea when it comes to terrific food – which is Lukshon’s specialty. We decided on six dishes including one noodle dish which always comes at the end of the meal and ensures you leave satisfied.
Clockwise from top left: Maryland Softshell Crab, Chiang Mai Curry Noodles, Chinese Black Mushrooms and Sweetbreads “Orange Chicken” Style
Two dishes stood out to me as the highlights of the meal. First the duck popiah with cilantro stems, pickled jicama and hoisin chile sauce which was essentially the smoothest, most delicate spring roll I’ve ever tasted. The duck was prepared as a pate mixing in with all of the other ingredients. I enjoy the various textures of foods and this was fun to eat with the smooth and crunchy elements combined. We were also blown away by the lamb belly roti canai with chanal dal, cumin, mint, and raita served with a small side of pickled cauliflower. This complicated sounding dish was a beautiful flatbread dish with lamb, beans and dollups of raita sauce. If it is on the menu when you try Lukshon be sure to order it!
Duck Popiah and Lamb Belly Roti Canai
While the wines weren’t to our liking that disappointment was somewhat made up for by the complimentary shot glass-sized desserts. They were the perfect end to a delightful meal with excellent service in a nice atmosphere.
Looking to try Lukshon without spending all your hard earned cash? Grab lunch starting at $15 or dinner starting at $25 during Dine LA Restaurant Week happening Monday July 16 – Friday July 27.
Oh, by the way: If the name Sang Yoon sounds familiar it’s because he is the chef behind the beloved Father’s Office burger joint which has its Culver City location two doors down for Lukshon in the Helms Bakery District.
Let’s be honest: This is the kind of place without the annoying Hollywood flash where you will likely run into power players in the entertainment industry ending a day of work at nearby Sony. For example, uber-producer Brian Grazer was sitting down as we left.
Accessorize: You’ll want to look at sleek as their fire lit patio…may we suggest some classics.
The perfect fitting dress: French Connection’s Fast Carlotta
The “goes with anything” bangle: Alexis Bittar Wallpaper Bracelet
The calf enhancing pump: Stuart Weitzman Diplille
