KATSUYA L.A. LIVE
SPORTING ITS TEAM SPIRIT(S) LOUD & PROUD

Props to Katsuya L.A. LIVE for proudly showing off its L.A. team spirit by crafting some creative concoctions in support of L.A. teams Lakers, Kings and Clippers.

The downtown Katsuya is always a favorite place for pre-game dinner and drinks before a basketball or hockey game at Staples Center. And to support our beloved teams, the bar program has created specialty cocktails inspired by our local teams exclusively served at Katsuya L.A. LIVE.

In honor of the Kings there is The Kings’ Ice made with Absolute Elyx Vodka, fresh sage leaves, lime juice, St. Germain and simple syrup. I’m not really a fan of vodka drinks (that’s why God created gin) but this is a solid cocktail does the Kings proud. This is a solid starter libation that isn’t too sweet and packs a nice punch.

The Lakers’ drink, the Purple & Gold Sour, is made with Knob Creek, lemon juice and simple syrup with a red wine float. It’s complex just like the dramatic and complicated Lakers team. Kudos for presentation here as the drink looks nice as it appears two-fold with the wine sitting on top above the bourbon straight out of chemistry class. I say if you drink this fast then it’s quite nice—just like a Lakers’ fast break. But if you let this still for too long (more than a few minutes) then the wine makes its way into the cocktail and it gets too sweet.

In honor of the Clippers, there’s Lob City made with Avion Tequila, Sayuri sake, lime juice, lychee syrup, grenadine and blue curacao. And just like the Clippers, it’s the least favorite of the bunch. I thought the drink was too sweet and kind of misses the dunk as it’s a little to all over the place.

All drinks are $15 and they offer a fun way to enjoy some push pre-game action. And just like any trip to Katsuya would be off without an order of their famous Spicy Tuna or Crispy Rice, these new cocktails offer a nice touch when you’re out on the town in Downtown L.A.

Katsuya L.A. LIVE is located at 800 W. Olympic Blvd in downtown. Call 213-747-9797.

Photography Courtesy: Katsuya L.A. LIVE

Story By: Jose Martinez