Chego- The Sexiest Rice Bowls in Chinatown

By Candice Criss

Nothing drives Los Angeles residents crazier than really delicious Asian-fusion cuisine and I truly believe that chef and founder of the beloved Kogi BBQ truck, Roy Choi, has mastered this food genre with Chego. Located in the heart of Chinatown, Chego is a standout establishment that adorns an outdoor strip mall with a lot of character. As Choi’s first sit-down restaurant, Chego manages to remain casual and humble next to its neighbors while specializing in rice and noodle bowls that are guaranteed to make you full and fall in love.

Now don’t get me wrong, there is nothing humble about the flavors of these bowls. I mean, even most of the food’s descriptions on the menu have the word “sexy” in it; and rightfully so. What I believe to be the sexiest thing on the menu is the Kung Pao Noodle bowl which comes with noodles, baby bok choy, chilies, fried egg, lemongrass and Thai basil. The Kung Pao noodle bowl is not like your normal take-out Kung pao dish. The ingredients are fresh, the noodles are hand cut and everything is made to order. This is the spiciest thing on the menu but it is so flavorful that you won’t be able to stop yourself from eating the entire thing (with a drink in tow, of course). It is also one of the more simple bowls on the menu which will only cost you about eight bucks.

Nevertheless, if you’re going to visit Chego, don’t you dare walk out without an order of Ooey Gooey fries. These fries come with every combo at Chego and can easily be a meal within itself. This ooey gooey goodness is served with Monterey jack and cheddar cheese, sour cream sambal, chilies, cilantro, cotija and pickled garlic. The Ooey Gooey fries have easily become a fan favorite and are guaranteed to emit a craving for more.

If you are looking for a more savory option, I would suggest the Beefy T bowl which comes with Thai basil, water spinach, fried shallots and fried chili garlic beef rice topped with a fried egg. Some people get afraid of the fried egg but fear not because it is top notch. The yolk gives the bowl this smooth delicious texture that you are sure to enjoy. Just that small effect, does wonders for bowl. However, with or without the egg, the Beefy T is a great dish with sweet and savory flavors and small cuts of beef that are seasoned and cooked to perfection.

If you are looking for great food with great prices (the highest thing on the menu is $10), loyal and noteworthy staff and a colorful ambiance, then Chego is the place to be.

Chego

727 N Broadway

Los Angeles, CA 90012

(323) 380-8680

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