Pikoh, the latest restaurant from Ricardo Zarate, reflects the international flavor of Los Angeles. The dishes show an eclectic mix of influences  – from kimchi fried rice to shashuka, arroz con pollo to bolognese. And, of course, there is avocado toast.

The former Chan Dara space has been redone into a bright open dining room, with skylights.

Once seated, you’ll be offered filtered still or sparkling water. Bonus points for the lack of  upsell on bottled water.

Pikoh is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The daytime menu (from 11am-5pm) covers breakfast, sandwiches, salads and heartier entrees (or “provisions” as noted on the menu). The vegetarian BF Burrito contained eggs, poblanos, shiitake mushrooms, potatoes and  a hearty serving of quesillo cheese (not that I’m complaining). While it wasn’t the best I’ve ever had, it was quite filling.

The Tonkatsu Chicken Sandwich, which our server had recommended, was fried perfectly. The meat was juicy, always a plus with using chicken thighs versus breast. It was paired with rocoto pepper aioli, cabbage and provolone on grilled ciabatta bread. The aioli, a nod to Zarate’s Peruvian roots, added just the right amount of heat to the sandwich. Both the burrito and the sandwich were served with a side of arugula, lightly dressed with olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt flakes.

Service was friendly and efficient, even though there only seemed to be two servers attending to the entire restaurant. For parking, there’s a valet in front, as well as metered street parking is available on Pico.

Happy Hour is available 7 days a week in the bar, front area and patio, with $6 cocktail, wine and beers and bites like chicken tonkatsu tacos and bangers and mash. Pikoh is a nice sunny addition to an otherwise drab stretch of Pico.

Location – 11940 W. Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064
Website – https://pikohla.com
Kid-Friendly – Yes
Kid’s Menu – No
Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly – Yes
Gluten-Free Options – Yes

As of October 2019, Pikoh has closed its doors for business.