WOKCANO ROCKS SANTA MONICA WITH VIP GRAND OPENING PARTY; MULTI-LEVEL RESTAURANT/BAR WOWS CROWD WITH SIGNATURE DRINKS AND ASIAN CULINARY DELIGHTS

Event Review by Don Rose

(July 29, 2008: Santa Monica, CA) If you are one of those ADD Angelenos who only has time for a two word review, here it is: Wokcano rocks.

Still with me? Great. Now for more details of the grand opening party for Wokcano in Santa Monica.

Hundreds came out tonight and partook of the wonderful food and libations passed around constantly by the very attractive and friendly wait staff at Wokcano. The Wokcano chefs were really cooking (pardon the apropos pun) late into the night.

The sushi was delicious (I loved the california roll, and another variety that seemed to be spicy tuna with cream cheese), but the tray that got the most play contained scrumptious glazed shrimp, spring rolls and tempura strips.

The passed-around drinks were also popular. In addition to white and red wine, I enjoyed the liquid specialties -- unique to Wokcano -- with such enchanting names as Asian Persuasion (the lychee makes it a sweet treat) and The Last Dragon (Trump grape vodka being a prime ingredient).

Garth Trinidad, host of popular radio show "Chocolate City" on Santa Monica College's ultrahip station KCRW, kept the vibe pulsing on the 1s and 2s.

Speaking of 1 and 2, the party tonight had two official "seatings" (630 and 830), and both were extremely well attended (when they said "be early" they really meant it). But most chose not to remain seated, preferring (as I did) to stand, roam and mingle in order to take in all the energy, and increase the odds of snagging the busy servers as they roamed the tri-level establishment.

But wait, there's more! At a climax point of the party, firedancers took center stage and entranced the packed Wokcano crowd.

Before this review ends, I must give big kudos to Kim Koury (SPIN Public Relations) and Jenn Laskey (RedLight Special Events and Promotions); each of these friendly fun gals are experts in event promotion and production, who always put on excellent events and ensure eclectic attendees at cool venues. The LA Report recommends you get on their mailing lists in order to enjoy their future activities (Kim Koury: kim@spinprgroup.com ; Jenn Laskey: jenn@redlightpromotions.com).

The LA Report recommends you experience Wokcano soon - on a night not so packed, perhaps - and enjoy the many wonderful dishes and drinks that are both unique and delicious. The southeast corner of 5th and Santa Monica Boulevard is now THE place for great Asian food in the heart of Santa Monica. (Note: Wokcano SM is a great date spot, too.)