By definition, barbeque cuisine isn’t exactly for our vegan and vegetarian friends, but the newest restaurant to open in the downtown Los Angeles Arts District proves that doesn’t have to be the case.
On March 25, Smoke City Char Bar opened its doors, offering ravenous visitors an authentic barbeque experience, while still making room on the menu for plenty of wholesome non-meat options.
“This is a bit of a homecoming for me, and I am so happy to bring my talents as a pitmaster to the city I grew up in,” said executive chef Omari Williams. “While smoked meats are what come to mind for most, we wanted to ensure our restaurant was inclusive to both vegetarians and pescatarians by offering some lighter options. We also felt compelled to create a beautiful space that was the perfect place to enjoy a casual lunch or evening out.”
See also: Chefs Max Boonthanakit and Lijo George Bring French-South Asian Cuisine to DTLA with Camphor
Smoke City Char Bar’s savory delicacies are all locally-sourced and naturally smoked onsite by Williams. In addition to barbeque standards like brisket, tri-tip, pulled pork and turkey, diners can also opt for salmon and jackfruit. The menu’s mix-and-match style makes for endless pairings, whether guests prefer to enjoy a sandwich, salad or plate, not to mention all mains are complimented by a number of house-made sauces, such as cayenne honey, molasses harissa, soy ginger, and mustard seed-apple cider.
More specifically, menu highlights include the California Cobb, Southern Style Salad, California Ciabatta and Buttery Brioche Sandwich. Those with a hankering for something sweet can order the Smoke City S'mores or the Smoked and Sugar Bruleed Georgia Peach, which includes vanilla bean ice cream.
To top off the menu, libations come courtesy of Southern inspiration. Bourbon based beverages are available, including Mint Juleps and boozy lemonades and iced teas. You can also really tap into the Los Angeles-inspired environment by ordering local favorites, Arts District Brewing Company’s Hefeweizen and Angel City’s IPA. The beverage menu is rounded out by a selection of Jones Cane Sugar Soda, a global wine list and a variety of canned beverages, including hard kombucha, non-alcoholic beers and Plant Vodka Seltzer.
Smoke City Char Bar’s coalescence of Southern style with L.A. aesthetics is certified by the restaurant’s design concept by Mary Dalinger. The interior designer looked to the Arts District in developing space, which is invigorated by custom ribbon lighting made from recycled resin and a locally-made sculpture that hangs over the dining room.
Downtown Los Angeles’ newest dining scene concept comes from owner Ki Yong Choi; Corporate Hill Associates’ corporate director of operations Jim Davis and executive chef Raun Sutton. It is open Sunday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., with hours extending to midnight on Friday and Saturday. Happy hour lasts from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
Smoke City Char Bar is located at 899 Traction Ave. 90013.
Photography by: Courtesy White Oak Communications
