71Above Restaurant & Skylounge in Los Angeles, California: Meet the Chef
WRITTEN BY 5 REASONS TO VISIT® EDITORIAL STAFF
PUBLISHED MAY 2022 • 4 min read
5 Reasons to Visit® sat down with Executive Chef Javier Lopez of 71Above Restaurant & Skylounge in Los Angeles, California.
Executive Chef Javier Lopez of 71Above Restaurant & Skylounge in Los Angeles, California
Where did you grow up, and where have you traveled to that has helped inspire and shape your cooking philosophy?
I am born and raised in Los Angeles. Spending time with my father as a child helped to develop my palate. We would frequent restaurants of all types. Definitely my travels through Latin countries and parts of Europe have changed my palate. Family gatherings help shape my philosophy of what hospitality is and how to care for others.
71Above Restaurant & Skylounge in Los Angeles, California
Tell our readers an interesting fact or two about yourself.
I practice being an amateur florist and love to ride my road bike for many miles on my days off.
Tell us about your absolute favorite food and why readers should try it if they haven’t already.
My favorite food to eat is a whole roasted chicken, roasted in the oven or over fire—it’s a classic that's hard to beat. Second, would be any California produce kissed by fire and seasoned with salt, lemon and olive oil. The simple things never get old to me.
71Above Restaurant & Skylounge in Los Angeles, California
What are three ingredients that you simply couldn’t live without?
Lemon, alliums (garlic, chives, leeks... etc.), brassicas, great olive oil, parmeggiano reggiano, chili, soy are staples in my day to day cooking. Any combination of any of these ingredients can really flavor a dish. Two other ingredients that I love are radishes and fennel... raw, shaved, grilled and in any manner.
We love the art behind plating. What do you love about designing the perfect dish?
I like keeping it simple, sometimes it is inspired by nature. For some reason I tend to enjoy circular shapes on our food when we create new dishes.
71Above Restaurant & Skylounge in Los Angeles, California
Tell us about one of the most creative dishes you’ve created?
White asparagus poached in kombu, served with XO sauce, uni aioli, and sea grass. This dish had a great balance of texture, umami, brightness and freshness.
71Above Restaurant & Skylounge in Los Angeles, California
Share your most recent awards and accreditations with us!
I'm not too sure about awards, but the biggest reward is seeing our guests leave happy everyday.
What are some of the latest trends you’re seeing in top restaurants across the globe?
I've noticed a lot of fermentation and hearth cookery. Also, the dry aging of fish.
What’s your favorite cocktail or beverage of choice?
Tequila neat, second would be a margarita, or a ranch water.
What do you love about being the Executive Chef at 71Above Restaurant & Skylounge in Los Angeles, California?
I love the team at 71Above. The team is always willing and ready to take care of our guests. Hospitality is really at the forefront of what we do. Also, having the best office view in the city doesn't hurt either…
71Above Restaurant & Skylounge in Los Angeles, California
