Between 3 Worlds Cafe, Kogi, Chego, A-Frame, Alibi Room, and Sunny Spot, you would think that Roy Choi would be tired. Whether you have watched recent interviews or have read about his complete take-over at The Line Hotel, you quickly realize that Roy Choi is only getting started in revolutionizing the culinary scene and answering to no one. I fell in love with his other hotel installation, Pot, earlier this year, but haven’t been back during the LA heatwave. Recently, my family and I had the pleasure of indulging in his beautiful greenhouse creation, Commissary.
First of all, the menu is full of fun drawings with very little written guidance. This not only symbolizes Choi’s idea of reinventing basic ingredients (mostly veggies), but also the commitment that diners need to make in order to fully enjoy the experience, TRUST THE CHEF.
We started off with the Eggplant, Figs, Carrots, Bok Choy, and a side of brown rice because I had read a review beforehand suggesting it for the Eggplant dish, as it resembles a Jade Curry. The Eggplant reminds me of a curry dish, a very spicy and very delicious curry dish. The Figs were served with fennel and the restaurant’s signature Rainbow Sauce, consisting of nuts, garlic, and chilies. The sweet and savory combination was perfection. We all ate the Carrots before I could get a photo. The Carrots were roasted and served with the Green Sauce which consists of tomatillo, garlic, and cilantro. I think that this dish was gobbled up so quickly because it looked the most approachable, but we were all surprised by the depth of flavor that was hiding in the Green Sauce. The Bok Choy was served with Green Beans, Garlic, Ginger, Green Onions, Chilies, and a Brown soy sauce. The combo of Bok Choy and Green Beans was deliciously crunchy and the garnishes and chili flakes gave this dish the most asian fusion flair.
My mom ordered the Scallops which were lightly seared and served in the Green garlic sauce. This dish was a huge hit with everyone. Scallops need to be cooked perfectly in order for them to be enjoyed, and these were cooked perfectly.
My dad asked the waitress to surprise him between the Tuna Melt and the French Dip. We were surprised at her choice of the Tuna Melt, until we took a bite. The cheese to tuna ratio was a great balance and the tuna was not at all fishy, but quite rich.
My boyfriend ordered the Burger. After we heard it was a combination of pork and Wagyu beef, how could he not order it?! I was upset that I only got one bite. The garnishes were subtle and the size was not too big, not too small, but just right.
Finally, I had the Schnitzel. The cutlet was juicy and the breading was not too heavy, but had the perfect crunch to it. Served with mustard, horseradish, and topped with fresh arugula, it was definitely a different take on schnitzel, but I absolutely loved it!
Our meal was definitely a crowd-pleaser. My parents and boyfriend can’t wait to come back to try more of the dishes and cocktails!
Do yourself a favor, grab a drink from the bar downstairs, grab another drink when you get to Commissary, order delicious veggies and entrees, and grab a dessert at the caFe in the lobby, and you will have had the perfect evening.
Commissary is now open for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. For more information or to make a reservation, visit http://www.eatatpot.com/#home
*Top Photo from Eater.com