Chaya has been a Venice staple for over 20 years. Executive Chef Shigefumi Tachibe and Chef de Cuisine Yuichi Natori cook up some serious Asian-French eats here. Tachibe infuses exotic and traditional
Japanese ingredients to make outstanding dishes. He also uses local sustainable ingredients from the Farmer's Market for the seasonally- changing menu. Whether you want to eat in the bar for Happy Hour, or dine in the lovely dining room; Chaya will accommodate
you! Start off with a cocktail or sake from the full bar. The Lychee Martini ($12) is vodka, lychee juice, lemon, and lychee fruit. It is both refreshing and exotic. For thoses more conservative, try the Pomegranate Martini ($12). For Sake lovers the Kikusui
Mandarin Orange beats out all the others ($12) with its clean spicy finish. My favorite Chaya cocktail is the Pineapple-infused vodka- it's house-made. Fish is delivered daily to Chaya which makes the sushi incredible. Salmon Avocado Cucumber rolls ($8),
Shrimp Tempura ($15), and Yellowtail ($8) are outstanding. Starters are a must. House Cured Smoked Salmon ($14) is accompanied by Lebanese garlic spread and garlic herb crostini. Vietnamese Spring Rolls ($12) are filled with shrimp, Alaskan snow crab and come
with spicy peanut sauce. Spicy Tuna Tartare ($18) is served with crispy wontons. The tuna's flavor is so fresh and well-defined. For salad starters the Premium Asian Pear, Prosciutto, and Burrata ($15) served with Balsamic and arugula is devine.
I love a good Chinese Chicken Salad. The Java Chicken ($14) is full of organic greens, shredded chicken, cilantro, crispy wontons, served with a sweet soy dressing and spicy peanut sauce. Meat lovers will enjoy the Chaya Black Angus Burger ($19). Grilled
onions, white cheddar, chutney, and spicy mayo round out this huge burger. Grilled Scottish Salmon ($29) with Farmer's Market steamed vegetables is my husband's favorite dish. He claims Chaya has the best salmon in the city! For sides, try the Fontina
Mac and Cheese with Truffle oil. ($9). If you still have room the Flourless Chocolate Cake is a showstopper! Served with Salted Caramel ice cream and chocolate sauce this dessert seals the deal! Chaya Venice (310) 396-1179 110 Navy Street, Venice.
Locations also in Beverly Hills, DTLA, and San Francisco.
Reservations Recommended
Recommended Dishes: Spicy Tuna Tartare, House Cured Smoked Salmon, Grilled Scottish Salmon, Fontina Mac and Cheese.