It’s impossible to miss the California-cool energy of Lasita, a Filipino rotisserie and natural wine destination, that emanates a jovial energy throughout Chinatown’s Far East Plaza. At night, diners spill out of its orange-drenched dining room onto a patio in the plaza as aromatic plates of chicken inasal and pork belly lechon emerge from inside, flanked by clinking wine glasses and steaming bowls of rice. Lasita takes a more casual approach than its predecessor, Lasa, with a menu that works for nearly everyone — find plenty of vegan and gluten-free dishes that make the place feel even more inclusive. It has become a rare versatile destination for everything from a Monday night glass of wine to an impressive out-of-town family dinner that doesn’t rack up an intimidating bill.
Natural wine goes hand in hand with rotisserie at Lasita. A glowing wine fridge at the edge of the dining room holds bottles spanning Sicilian skin-contact, easy-drinking Spanish chilled reds and sparkling Portuguese whites. A handful of wines are available by the glass, with more by the bottle. Don’t expect what is listed online to match the in-restaurant selections; Lasita often rotates the selection.
If dining with a group between 7 and 10 people, Lasita offers a “pamilya style” menu meant for sharing. For $53 per person, the set meal includes hits such as pork belly lechon, chicken inasal, sinigang shrimp chips, and chicken fat rice.