"Top of the Food Chain "  (Westside Today August 2005)

Sawtelle Avenue in West Los Angeles is known for its many Asian restaurants, but the downside is that the menus often look very similar and there is little variation in the cuisine. Fortunately, a new eatery has recently opened (at Sawtelle and Olympic) that breaks the sushi stereotype. Nestled in the Olympic Collection is a Far East hideaway called Zip Fusion.

“Zip means ‘home' in Korean. I am just creating my own home. C'mon in, have a good time. That's what it's all about,” says owner Jason Ha. The enthusiastic, young entrepreneur comes from a family of restauranteurs. His Japanese father and Korean mother have opened restaurants throughout Korea . After working in the fashion industry for a few years, Ha decided to try his hand at the family business.

His first Zip Fusion opened in downtown L.A. in late 2002. After watching that Zip develop a large and loyal following, Ha is hoping history will repeat itself on the Westside. It's a pretty good bet; the newest Zip Fusion is sleekly designed with mod furniture and art that fits perfectly into the night-clubby décor, creating an intimate and friendly atmosphere.

Ha and his chef, Hae Nam “Sean” An, have blended traditional Asian fare and ingredients to create succulent original dishes; that's where the “fusion” part comes in. “I was looking for someone who wasn't afraid to go a little bit crazy—someone who understood tradition, but wanted to blend tastes in ways that have never been tried before,” says Ha. “When I sit down with our chefs, there's no limit, and it's so much fun!”

Some of the tastiest creations at Zip Fusion include the Dressed Tomato, which is filled with yummy spicy tuna, and the popular Zip Alba-Cado, fresh albacore wrapped with thin avocado. The must-try Cozy Shrimp features fried shrimp injected with mouth-watering cream cheese. Tasty and tender beyond belief, the Zip Tender Rib could entice even the strictest vegan. For those who are on a vegetarian diet, Zip Fusion offers meatless dishes as well. The Seaweed Salad is terrific.

In addition to the culinary offerings, Zip Fusion has a lounge area for private parties, three private Karaoke rooms, and an open kitchen where guests can check out the food preparation and the chefs can watch patrons enjoy their meals. “When they see a customer having a good time, it totally motivates them,” adds Ha. “I'll tell my staff, ‘We are out on the stage performing. We provide great food, great service, and a great experience. Let's have a good time!' ”

Zip Fusion
11301 W. Olympic Blvd.
Los Angeles , CA , 90064
310-575-3636

 Hours:
Sunday-Wednesday night, 5pm-12am, serving until 11:30pm.
Thursday-Saturday night, 5pm-2am, serving until 1:30am.