An Ode to Los Angeles…via Port au Prince
Los Angeles still has the capacity to absolutely surprise you in delightful ways. The reservoir of culture in every amalgamation. The productivity of its working class. The architecture in its downtown core. And not to be outdone, the presence of great comfort food in unexpected settings.
I admit I did not expect much when I came upon Tigeorge’s Chicken, which specializes in Haitian-prepared roasted chicken. The dingily bare strip mall exterior and “B” rating did not exactly inspire confidence. However, immediately upon entering, you are greeted with a colorfully tiled interior littered with namesakes of Haitian culture. You are also greeted by the friendly proprietor, Tigeorge, who happily will take your order in English or French.
This place is a delight.
First timers should order the roasted chicken - it isn’t laden with garlic in the Cuban style, nor is it oversalted. Its subtle flavor is distinct, and frankly great, in its own right. However, for my money, I prefer the goat platter. The goat meat is both tender and fatty in the right proportions. Wash it all down with expresso prepared with Haitian coffee beans, a touch of vanilla and lime. Its tremendous. Despite Tigeorge’s homage to Haitian culture (ever once in awhile he has to “re-culturize” his Mexican cooks to relate the food strictly back to its Haitian origin), I can’t help but feel that eating here is a distinctly Los Angeles experience.
Tigeorge’s Chicken, 309 Glendale Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90026, (213) 353-9994.
