Asian Fusion in San Diego Gaslamp
A friend mentioned a new restaurant that I needed to try in the Gaslamp called Gang Kitchen.
Finding my self with some time on my hands this Sunday afternoon, I thought I would walk over and try the very enticing Happy Hour menu. Happy hour is served daily from 5 to 7 p.m. when this article was posted – check the website for updated schedule.
Who doesn’t like draft Kirin Iciban beer for $2.00 and all appetizers for $5.00? I know that I left really satisfied for a small bill – a true bargain for some top shelf food, great atmosphere, and just off the tourist gawkiness of 5th Avenue.
Gang Kitchen offers an eclectic menu of Asian Fusion. My plan is to go back soon for a full dinner and I’ll write another review then. You can check out the Yelp page here for more reviews.
Today Jesse served us Sweet Potato/Wasabi Guacamole spring rolls with Habanero Tomatillo Salsa. This was a very interesting dish and the spiciness of the Habanero Tomatillo sauce really worked with the crispy fried spring rolls.
Next I tried Edamame Wontons which were steamed. They were slightly salty for my taste but a nice break from the heavier spring rolls.
My favorite was the Mushroom Potstickers with Ponzu butter sauce. The potstickers were crisp on one side and the taste of the mushroom came through nicely.
The draft Kirin was the perfect compliment but I must admit the drink menu looked intriguing.
Jon Mangini owner of Gang Kitchen also owns Basic Pizza in East Village which is another all time favorite. The vibe of the resturant certainly has some Basic to it, but on a much more sophisticated scale. Jesse told us the fantastic artwork around the restaurant was done by Marc Sandoval - Link to Gallery. The guy is really talented and you can see some of his examples below.
Besides the bar on the street level there is a raised dining area and an upstairs dining and second bar. The front of the restaurant opens much like Basic Pizza while the exterior building is very dark and low key. The first night that I walked by the restaurant I was not sure it was even open to the pubic.
