FirstBorn

Firstborn Los Angeles

Decided to try

Firstborn — a small, jewel-like restaurant tucked into Los Angeles’ Chinatown — came highly recommended by my friend Hans, and it did not disappoint. From the moment I stepped inside, the space felt thoughtfully designed: warm, inviting interiors that are elegant without being pretentious. Service was attentive and relaxed, the kind that lets you enjoy the meal without feeling rushed.

We chose the tasting menu at $68 per person and added a few of the team’s suggestions, including a delicate Celery Root Blini topped with N25 ossetra caviar, and a perfectly crisp Fried Chicken. Each course was composed with care, but two dishes have stayed with me long after the meal: the trout tartare — bright, clean, and texturally beautiful — and the Duck Sausage en Crépinette, rich and deeply satisfying. Both showcase the kitchen’s finesse and creativity.

If you go, don’t skip those two. Firstborn feels like a well-kept secret: elevated cooking, relaxed atmosphere, and a menu that surprises in the best way.

978 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012