Top Los Angeles dining spots for that prosperous Lunar New Year celebration
Whether it’s your long-running family tradition or you’re a newbie joining in the slew of Lunar New Year festivities this 2024, Los Angeles has several spots for celebration — dim sum and dumplings included.
Most Asian countries would transform into a kaleidoscope of Chinese New Year events with around 2 billion people celebrating worldwide. The City of Angels won’t be left out as it stands tall being a cultural melting pot, starting with Disneyland California Adventure. The happiest place on Earth is all set for celebration.
Where to celebrate Lunar New Year 2024 in Los Angeles
Whether you call it Tết, Seollal or Spring Festival, this occasion calls for some dimsum, dumplings or long noodles for long life, prosperity and luck.
Most of all, it marks family reunions, fortune and food. Here’s where you can head across LA for vibrant celebrations — food and events included.
Bistro Na’s
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Address: Temple City, LA
This is where tradition meets luxury, a great way to kickstart your gastronomic journey. Picture dining in a restaurant that shouts tales of ancient China.
From February 9- 24, Bistro Na offers Lunar New Year meal sets good for groups of 6 to 10. Reserve one day advance for sure seats.
Chinois on Main
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Address: Santa Monica, LA
A Wolfgang Puck’s masterpiece, this is a spot where east meets west. Even with its French flair, this 40-year-old restaurant serves up Shanghai lobster, sizzling catfish and their often-copied chicken salad. Their specials on Feb. 9 and 10? A menu complete with dragon dance show and party favors.
Kato
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Address: Row DTLA, LA
This culinary gem by Chef Jon Yao holding the No.1 spot on The Times’ 101 Best Restaurants list is cooking up two exclusive Lunar New Year feasts. From Feb. 7-9, enjoy $125 cocktail pairings by Double Dragon experts Vay Su and Shawn Lickliter — it comes with their tasting menu.
In addition, Kato will offer a nine-course meal paired with wine or spirit-free drinks for $395 — prepared by guest chefs Matthew Lightner and Daisy Ryan.
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Dan Modern Chinese
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Address: Long Beach, California
Experience modern Chinese flavors this Lunar New Year. Kickstart your celebration with a modern twist on Chinese classics. They’re rolling out new dishes like the Hong Kong egg cakes, dan dan noodles. Adding some luck to your dining is their tradition of red packets.
Merois
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Address: Pendry West Hollywood
If you’re looking to dress up for the night, Merois promises an extravagant celebration with their five-course menu priced at $165 per person. Expect Alaska king crab bay buns, Peking duck and more served on your plates. Plus, a dragon dance show, live entertainment and the city’s stunning views will complete your meal.
Chinese New Year Events in LA
Lunar New Year Festival – USC Pacific Asia Museum
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When: Feb. 10, 2024
Address: Pasadena Playhouse District
Enjoy an afternoon of pan-Asian celebrations with lion dances, classical music and martial arts. Food trucks will be present and you can enjoy art activities. The event offers free admission.
Chinese New Year Festival at the Huntington
When: Feb. 10-11, 2024
Address: San Marino
Step inside Huntington Library’s Chinese gardens for a two-day Lunar Celebration. With mask-changing performances, martial arts demonstrations and lion dancing set up in their lush gardens, it’s a feast for the whole family.
Check out some sweet and savory delights such as yuzu sorbet and bao buns served in the museum’s dining spots.
With this Year of the Dragon embodying strength and fortune, let Los Angeles be your destination for Lunar New Year celebrations.
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