Chi Dynasty Opens Second Location in Studio City

Chi Dynasty Studio City

Chi Dynasty in Los Feliz has been serving up Chinese food for more than 25 years. Owner Jonathan Chi must have wanted to make sure he had his formula for success just right - because it took him a quarter century in the biz, to take the leap and open a second spot, this one in Studio City. For this outpost, he partnered with Mike Israyleyan, owner of Muse Lifestyle Group. The folks at Muse are the brains behind such venues as The Playhouse in Hollywood and Nine Thirty at the W in Westwood.

While most Chinese restaurants lend themselves more to a quick bite or a great take out option, Chi's approach is different. He's going for a more upscale, fine dining feel. The Studio City location is decked out in classic black and red lacquer with lots of lattice work. The tables are dressed to the nines as though Chi unpacked his finest China (no pun intended) for the guests. What also stands out is the large open kitchen, perfect for seeing the chef's wok techniques, and the sleek bar at the front of the restaurant which comes complete with a fish tank built into the wall.

The menu is filled with classic, straightforward Chinese fair, so if you are longing for Mandarin Duck, Mu Shu pork or some Dim-sum, you're in luck.

A month in, Chi, who is putting much of his time and attention on the new location, says business is picking up, "lunches are still slow, but weekends are packed. That's always a good thing."

Chi Dynasty: 12229 Ventura Blvd. Studio City, 91604 818-753-5300.