Since 2017, the expansive space at 978 North Broadway in Mandarin Plaza has sat empty since Andy Ricker’s Pok Pok shuttered its doors. But this fall, chef Anthony Wang and partner Bill Chait are breathing new life into the spot with a new concept called First Born, reports Eater LA.
First Born will explore chef Wang’s interpretation of Chinese food, backed by French techniques and fresh SoCal produce. Chef Wang, who hails from Miami and grew up in Atlanta, plans to infuse his menu with the flavors of his heritage and his experiences.
“Me being Chinese American and being the first person born in my family in America, I always had this kind of identity crisis growing up,” chef Wang told Eater.
While the offerings will rotate seasonally, two dishes will always be available – egg custard reminiscent of his mother’s cooking, and a two-week-aged French-style duck with crispy skin and Chinese spices.
First Born will initially welcome guests for dinner service, with plans to introduce a more affordable lunch option in the future.
