It was time to celebrate, kick up my heels and enjoy some great food and Chaya in Venice fit the bill perfectly.

With its happy hour for the hip, this place is packed by 6. But waiting here isn’t a problem - just sip one of their famous pineapple infusion (fresh pineapple marinated in Fris vodka) at the bar or any thing from their award-winning wine list and strike up a conversation with everyone else waiting to be seen, oh, I mean table.

The wait, the loud music and the sometimes ‘too cool for school’ attitude is worth it when it comes to the food which specializes in international sea food dishes and full sushi bar (managed for over seven years by acclaimed sushi chef, Yuichi Natori). Hungry but not famished and in need of something light but different, I went with their sushi. Trusting our waiter’s recommendations we went with a few exotic things, things I normally wouldn’t have chosen. But the waiters here know Chaya and aren’t afraid to share what you should and shouldn’t get - so listen to them. You’ll be glad.

Our sushi was incredible, some of the best in L.A. as was their Ginger Creme Brulee - another recommendation from our waiter. We were surprised to find that we had spent nearly two hours dining without feeling rushed despite the crowds and the music. The relaxed attitude of both the waiters and decor kept us happy and content, even when things got lively.

Chaya was the perfect place to celebrate, whether you want to talk with friends over a table or by making some new ones at the bar.

TIP: Reservations highly recommended, especially since you can do it so easily through their web site.

Chaya Venice
110 Navy St (Corner of Main)
Venice CA 90291
310.396.1179

Famished Girl, Scene Girl | Email | Print | //