Nestled on the busy corner of Highland and Melrose, Koast is the latest venture from Chef Kevin Meehan, the mastermind behind the Michelin-starred Kali. A departure from the fine-dining style of Kali, Koast is a more casual yet refined seafood eatery that brings the flavors of East Coast seafood to Los Angeles with a unique, global twist.
Koast’s interior, designed by Cory Surovek of Studio Surovek, sets a vibe of sleek Japanese minimalism creating a chic but welcoming atmosphere. The space features comfy blue banquette seating, concrete floors, open design and exposed steel beams, lending a contemporary edge to the small dining room with a mix of intimate tables and bar seating.
Koast shines with a menu that blends the best of West Coast seafood with the bold flavors of the East Coast. Chef Meehan has created a carefully chosen selection of raw dishes, lightly cured seafood, and main dishes.
Appetizer highlights include very fresh Morro Bay oysters, yellowtail crudo served with buttermilk nage and the unique pastrami-style salmon gravlax. There is also a beautiful selection of fish from around the globe, including sea bream sashimi with ponzu and Spanish yellowtail tuna. Cooked starters include a delicious take on crabcakes with a crispy scallop cake and the seasonal seafood chowder is perfect for cold winter evenings. The Maryland-baked crab dip is another must-try, packed with flavor and perfect for sharing.
For mains, Koast’s famous lobster baked manicotti is a must order with a rich, creamy filling and slightly crispy pasta. Seafood lovers will enjoy the rockfish in cioppino broth with fennel or the grilled tiger prawns. Carnivores should order the dry-aged cheeseburger served on a potato bun with caramelized onions and crisp French fries tossed in Old Bay.
Koast offers a carefully curated beer and wine list, overseen by wine director Drew Langley. The selection features a mix of local and global options, with a focus on wines that complement the fresh seafood offerings.
Koast is a welcome addition to the Los Angeles dining scene, offering a laid-back refined take on seafood that’s approachable and elevated. Dishes are unique, combining Chef Meehan’s East Coast seafood approach with global influences. Whether you’re a seafood connoisseur or just looking for a great meal, Koast offers an experience that is sure to satisfy you.
Koast is located at 6623 Melrose Avenue, open Sunday – Thursday from 5pm to 9:30pm, Friday and Saturday from 5pm to 10pm, reservations at https://koastrestaurant.com.
