My fiancée and I are moving out of state in a couple of weeks after our wedding and we want to treat ourselves to a fancy Michelin-starred going-away, last meal in LA. Our top choice was n/naka but we weren’t able to get reservations (☹️). Our next two options are [Kato](https://www.katorestaurant.com/) and [Providence](https://providencela.com/menus/dinner/) but we’re having a tough time choosing between them. Any suggestions on which we should go with for our send-off dinner?
Thanks!
by iamneothe1
18 Comments
never been to kato, but i went to providence recently. all in all, the food was very good — a few of the dishes were pretty great, and one dish had this broth that was among the best things i’ve ever eaten. and the service was maybe the best i’ve ever had. but it’s expensive. and it’s so hyped that i don’t think it can meet expectations
Providence by a mile
Providence. It’s an institution, and honestly as a Taiwanese person I didn’t really like Kato all that much. I think it speaks more to the Asian-American experience than a Taiwanese one tbh.
Call N/naka and tell them exactly what you said here. Niki and the entire staff are extremely accommodating. Part of what makes the meal so extraordinary is the heart behind it — something tells me they’ll find a way to get you a seat.
If they can’t make it work for you, Providence.
Providence.
Providence
Providence is a memorable meal, it’s incredible
Have been to both and providence for sure.
Go Providence. Kato is overpriced, Taiwanese food isn’t meant to be “expensive” as it’s a humble cuisine meant to be accessible to everyone.
Providence hands down! Best service we’ve had in our entire time living here. The meal was incredible and my partner and I still talk about the food we had there to this day. I also just saw they recently remodeled inside so it’s supposed to look more modern and moody inside!
I would say Providence. Had an absolutely unforgettable meal there. It’s a fantastic combination of wonderful food and terrific service.
But I also want to make sure you guys manage to schedule a send-off taco truck dinner, too. I’m betting that’s what you’ll miss even more haha!
having been to both I think Providence is much more refined than Kato. Katos head chef Yao is young and I think his work reflects his age.
I’ve had both and enjoyed both. I’d probably lean Providence, but Both will be good.
Providence definitely learns more seafood forward so if you love seafood, go there!
Providence – they should have 3 Michelin stars, and with their new dining room renovation they will probably get it.
edit: and their pastry chefs make their chocolate from scratch!
Providence they just remodeled their interior as well!
Haven’t been to Kato, but I wasn’t blown away by Providence. I much preferred Manzke which has a star
I’ve been to both and I enjoyed my overall experience at Kato more.
Providence is the best restaurant in town *and* they just remodeled, so you’d be one of the first to check out the new version. Go to Providence.
That said, Kato is really, really excellent. I’d happy dine there any day of the week.