SoCal.com Restaurant Review – ‘Wokcano Asian Restaurant and Bar’
- By JENNIFER FORDYCE

Wokcano Asian Restaurant and Bar opened its doors in July 2008 to an enthusiastic gathering of restaurant goers that lined 5th street just shy of the 3rd Street Promenade shopping strip as DJs spinned the latest beats in the open courtyard within. Since then, Wokcano has become one of the trendiest restaurants in the area with its modern, New York loft feel, rich Asian-inspired accents and the night sky to create a mysterious and intriguing atmosphere.

 

Brothers Marcus and Michael Kwan are the heart and soul of this 6-restaurant chain with plans of opening a Long Beach location in the next few weeks. When asked where their passion for cooking came from, they say it was from helping their mother cook when they were 6 years old growing up in a small village in China. Executive Chef Mr. Lum does a wonderful job of making sure their creations are made to perfection and with a touch of elegance.

 

A popular choice for sports fans on game night is the Spicy Tuna Tornado Dip served in a towering martini glass surrounded by American’s favorite – Doritos. A must have appetizer is the Black Pearl which is made of a delectable combination of yellowtail, salmon and albacore tuna topped with a fresh mint leaf and black caviar. For hot foods, the Honey Walnut Shrimp is a mildly sweet dish with a uniquely light texture. And for meat lovers, there is the Black Pepper Mignon with a rich barbeque flavor and peppery aftertaste.

 

To compliment the wide variety of Asian cuisine is an extensive list of drinks. The most popular martinis include the lime-green and red Godzilla or the Wax On / Wax Off made of Pravda Vodka, Midori, pineapple juice and Chambord as well as a long list of hot and cold saki and imported beers. 

 

Wokcano also offers live DJs spinning on Fridays and Saturdays as well as the perfect place for an upscale private party with a separate banquet room with its own sound system that opens to the main courtyard if desired. Upcoming events include Macy Gray spinning records on Friday, October 17th and a fundraiser for President hopeful Barack Obama on Sunday, October 19th. 

 

For more information, go to www.wokcanorestaurant.com.


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