Taste Test: Downtown Roy's New Menu

Having grown up in Hawaii, I have a special place in my heart for local boy done good Roy Yamaguchi. The chef has turned his Honolulu eatery into a global empire... but smartly lets his individual chefs add their own touches, making every location a bit different.

We were invited last week to check out some new menu items from Roy's Downtown Los Angeles chef partner Garrett Mukogawa. Here's what we ate:


"Elaine's" Kabocha Squash Salad (Cinnamon Spiced Pepitas, Cranberry Vinaigrette)


Blackened Rock Shrimp & Red Bean Soup (Portuguese Sausage, Shishito)


Artichoke & Goat Cheese Crusted Salmon (Sundried Tomato Sauce)


Cilantro Grilled Tiger Shrimp (Stewed Curried Lentils & Fall Vegetables)


Tender Braised Beef Short Ribs (Creamy Mashed Potatoes Natural Braising Sauce)


Pumpkin & Ginger Cheese Cake (Pumpkin Anglaise)
Roy's Melting Hot Chocolate Soufflé (Flourless Chocolate Cake with a Molten Hot Center served à la Mode)


And oh yes, the drinks.