LASA was founded by Filipino-American brothers, Chef Chad Valencia and Chase Valencia. The word lasa, meaning taste or flavor in Tagalog, always had a lot of meaning in the Valencia brothers’ upbringing. Food was always a centerpiece of any gathering and cooking was a way to bring their family together. The value of good food and a memorable dining experience is at the very core of their identity. With LASA, the Valencia brothers want to impart that joy of sharing a good meal with those you hold close.

The journey began in the summer of 2013 as a series of intimate backyard dinners among the Valencia brothers and their friends. LASA has grown since then and has held over 50 dinners in both Highland Cafe in Highland Park and at the Elysian in Frogtown. Experience at the Elysian created an even larger following and demand for their food, with 120 seats selling out within minutes after opening reservations to the public. Now in partnership with Chef Alvin Cailan (Eggslut), LASA continues as a weekend residency (Friday - Sunday) at the culinary incubator, Unit 120, located at the Far East Plaza in Chinatown. LASA is operating as a restaurant project with the goal of establishing their very own brick and mortar restaurant in Los Angeles.