Asian Fusion cuisine is oftentimes difficult to execute successfully, but Richard Sandoval has clearly mastered the trade. Masa 14’s Latin-Asian offerings, especially on their brunch menu, are enough to hush any skeptic. I took off for brunch at Masa 14 on a crisp Sunday morning, which with $39 unlimited small plates and mimosas, Bellinis, or Bloody Mary’s, I had heard was a party in itself. However, as with most brunches I attend, I was already worried about what I would be able to eat. Much to my surprise, Masa 14 actually has a substantial gluten-free menu that has over ten items. Noted: come to Masa 14 every Sunday for brunch…
After scanning the menu, I decided to go for the smoked chicken hash, bacon fried rice, and my all-time favorite breakfast item, chilaquiles, topped off with a blood orange mimosa. The smoked chicken hash was very filling. Typically, it’s topped with a chipotle hollandaise, but since I am lactose-intolerance, the chef replaced this sauce with a pleasantly smoky salsa.
The bacon fried rice also had a smokiness to it, which was accentuated by the kimchi. The chilaquiles were a bright addition to the meal, and served as somewhat of a pallet cleanser in comparison to the rich flavors of the fried rice and smoked chicken hash.
While I am also oftentimes suspicious about the “small plate” concept, especially at breakfast time since I’m not the “sharing” type, the portions were a great size and left my friend and I very satisfied.
Next time I head to Masa 14 for brunch, I have my eyes set on the breakfast tacos and grilled chorizo sausage. The breakfast tacos, and tacos at other mealtimes are all made with corn tortillas, so they are safe for nobreaders.
Dinnertime at Masa 14 is basically a gift to all of us that don’t consume gluten, as the menu is filled with GF staples like sushi, and fulfilling vegetables. On the sushi list, the Rainbow Tropico Roll with tuna, hamachi, salmon, avocado, mango-papaya salsa is a standout. On the “Sea & Land” portion, I would go for the Wok Seared Octopus accompanied by chorizo, fingerling potato, haricot vert, saffron aioli, and micro greens.
Overall, Masa 14 is a trendy restaurant fit for nobreaders and gluten-eaters alike. With a diverse array of menu options, no diner needs to make a sacrifice for flavor here.