By Olivia Nerpouni
In the picturesque Hollywood Hills, Yamashiro embodies the crossover of Japanese culinary mastery and the classic charm of Los Angeles. Famous for its panoramic city views and distinctive Japanese-fusion cuisine, Yamashiro sets itself apart from other LA restaurants with a unique cocktail menu that mirrors the changing of the seasons. Each carefully-crafted drink this summer, such as the beloved “Hibiscus Highball,” represents a harmonious blend of bitter citrus, floral notes, and refreshing elements. These cocktails are not only dedicated to Yamashiro’s Japanese heritage, but also reflect the restaurant’s commitment to transformative mixology.
Yamashiro’s cocktail menu is an obvious reflection of its adherence to quality and creativity. For instance, the Hibiscus Highball, a favorite among guests, is a refreshing concoction that features Grey Goose Vodka, stilled Hibiscus Cordial, and fresh seltzer infused with a thick-cut lemon wedge – the perfect drink for summer nights. Another highlight of the cocktail menu is the “Silk Whisperer,” made with green tea-infused Haku Vodka, Aperol, fresh rhubarb, Himalayan salt, and sparkling rosé. This drink balances sweetness with a touch of bitterness, offering a unique twist on the classic Aperol Spritz. Haku Vodka, known for its organic and gluten-free profile sourced locally in the US, infuses the drink with the delicate essence of green tea, making it the perfect drink for a warm day.
The “Japanese Gin and Tonic” offers a herbal and floral take on a classic cocktail, mixing Roku Gin with fresh sage, grapefruit peel, juniper berries, pink peppercorn, fresh mint, and tonic. Roku Gin, crafted by the House of Suntory, infuses traditional and Japanese botanicals, reflecting the essence of each season in its blend. Meanwhile, the “Ryujin” cocktail entices diners with coconut-infused Knob Creek Rye Whiskey, Mezcal, fig leaf syrup, chocolate chili, and orange bitters – a unique delight that features both sweet and sour notes. For guests who are interested in a shareable option, the Yogiri “Nightfog” is a drink designed for two. This unique cocktail combines Roku Gin, sakura cherry blossom vermouth, pamplemousse, campari, and black lemon bitters. The cherry blossom vermouth adds a floral note to the beverage, while the pamplemousse and campari contribute a subtle bitterness and fruity undertones. But what truly sets the Nightfog apart is its theatrical presentation – served over dry ice, it envelops the table in mist, creating an immersive ambiance. Beyond these signature cocktails, Yamashiro offers an extensive selection of beers, sakes, wines, and personalized beverage options, ensuring there is something to complement every dish made by the restaurant’s expert chefs.
Executive Chef Jae Hee Lee has seamlessly fused Japanese cuisine with the vibrant creativity of Los Angeles, offering a wide range of food options for guests to enjoy with their summer cocktails. His commitment to perfection is evident in dishes like the crispy matcha soba and the A5 Wagyu crispy rice, which showcase his mastery of flavors and textures. Chef Jae’s leadership is marked by a deep respect for his team, fostering an environment where each member’s individual perspective contributes to the restaurant’s success. Furthermore, in the realm of sushi-making, Chef Shandhi Peter De Costa has honed his skills to perfection at Yamashiro. His accomplishments include the title of ‘Most Skilled Sushi Chef’ in the European Sushi Championship, followed by a remarkable second-place finish in the famous World Sushi Chef Japan competition. His dedication to Japanese culinary traditions is evident in every sushi roll, nigiri, and handroll that he makes, each a reflection of his talent. Together, Chef Jae and Chef De Costa elevate Yamshiro’s experience to new heights, pairing their unique dishes with the restaurant’s extensive cocktail menu to create the perfect summer dining experience.
Whether diners are savoring a seasonal cocktail while watching a stunning Los Angeles sunset or indulging in a one-of-a-kind Japanese fusion dish, they are treated to a true experience of Japanese tradition and impeccable taste at the hands of Chef Jae and Chef Shandhi De Costa. Open 5:00pm-11:00pm daily, Yamashiro welcomes guests to enjoy a sip of LA summer splendor.
