Lucia: A New Afro-Caribbean Fine Dining Experience in L.A.
Step into Lucia, one of Los Angeles’s most eagerly awaited restaurants, where every bite is a vibrant celebration of Afro-Caribbean cuisine. Nestled in the bustling Fairfax district, this modern eatery offers an unforgettable dining experience that marries culinary artistry with cultural depth.
A Culinary Oasis with a Twist
At Lucia, guests are invited to indulge in unique dishes like Wagyu-stuffed Jamaican patties and saltfish-and-fig croquettes, all while seated in stunning, shell-shaped booths that reflect the restaurant’s vibrant spirit. The atmosphere is electric; as a DJ spins infectious rhythms, patrons are treated to showstopping plates such as jerk-spiced tomahawk steaks and sorrel-dusted plantains.
Visionary Owners with Heart
Owner Sam Jordan expresses a heartfelt desire to elevate Caribbean cuisine, saying, “I knew how diverse, flavorful, and impactful this cuisine could be if executed in a modern way.” Partnering with Chef Adrian Forte, who brings a wealth of experience from diverse culinary backgrounds, they aim to reshape how diners perceive and embrace Afro-Caribbean flavors.
- Chef Adrian Forte has crafted a masterpiece with his Guyanese-style oxtail pepper pot, a labor of love that takes three days to prepare. Using a house-ground spice blend and smoking the meat over Jamaican pimento wood, he serves it in a rich sauce made from cassareep.
Crafting Unique Flavors
Innovation flows through every dish. The fried chicken, brined in creamy coconut milk and served with fermented chili aioli, showcases Forte’s commitment to reinvigorating classic recipes. Additionally, his pepper shrimp toast combines the essence of Jamaican street food with flavors from Chinese cuisine, producing a delightful culinary fusion.
Elevating Caribbean Cuisine for All
Forte’s vision is not merely about gourmet dining but about bridging cultural gaps and showcasing Caribbean cuisine’s value and potential in fine dining. He passionately notes that other cultures boast high-end restaurants representing their cuisines, and it’s time for Caribbean food to claim its rightful place alongside them.
- To combat ingredient accessibility issues often faced by Caribbean chefs, Forte sources fresh produce directly from local farmers, redefining the dining experience with ingredients like creamed callaloo and caribbean sweet potato, ensuring authenticity at every turn.
Late-Night Delights and Signature Cocktails
Lucia shines even brighter during its late-night service, featuring tantalizing small bites and innovative beverages crafted by beverage director Melina Meza. Guests can explore standout drinks like the okra martini, tamarind Collins, or an intriguing oxtail old-fashioned to cap off their meal.
Chef Forte’s Culinary Journey
Chef Forte’s culinary roots run deep, shaped by his family restaurant in Jamaica and years spent cooking across Canada and the Caribbean, including a noteworthy appearance as the first Black contestant on Top Chef Canada. These experiences inform his cooking and inspire his vision for Lucia.
A Design Experience, Not Just a Meal
Dan Jordan, co-founder of Lucia, collaborated with design firm Preen to create an immersive dining environment that mirrors the beauty of the Caribbean. From the intricate flower-like bar sculpture to the elegant shell booths, every element serves to enhance the overall dining experience.
“I want people to get comfortable, to enjoy their food and drink, and soak in the ambience,” Jordan shares. At Lucia, it’s not just about the meal; it’s about savoring a full spectrum of flavors and experiences.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Lucia is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 6 PM to midnight. You’ll find it at 351 N. Fairfax Ave., Los Angeles, with reservations highly recommended. For more information, visit Lucia’s website or call (213) 800-0048.
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable evening at Lucia, where every dish is a testament to the vibrant Afro-Caribbean heritage, inviting you to revel in its rich flavors and culture.
