Genghis Cohen’S Epic Comeback: La’S Iconic Chinese Diner Reopens On Fairfax

Genghis Cohen Returns: A Fairfax Avenue Glow-Up

Alright, LA foodies, let’s talk about a comeback hotter than a SoCal summer day. Genghis Cohen, the 42-year-old Chinese diner that’s been a staple for everyone from multi-gen families to rockstars and skaters, has reopened its doors just a few blocks from its OG spot on Fairfax Avenue. Since 1983, this place has been serving up nostalgia with a side of egg rolls, and owners Marc Rose and Med Abrous - the brains behind La Dolce Vita and The Spare Room at the Hollywood Roosevelt - are keeping that legacy alive after a decade of stewardship.

This isn’t just a relocation; it’s a full-on revival with a nod to the past. Nestled near heavy hitters like Jon & Vinny’s and Badmaash, the new Genghis Cohen is still rocking that old-school charm while bringing fresh energy to the Fairfax scene. For those not in the know, Fairfax is the beating heart of LA’s cool-kid culture, packed with trendy eats and street style - the perfect spot for this diner to reclaim its throne.

The Vibe: Retro Chinese Diner Meets LA Swagger

Step inside, and it’s like you’ve time-traveled to a 1950s Chinese-American joint with a Hollywood twist. With design vibes courtesy of Jared Frank from Wildcrust in Highland Park, the space keeps the classic red booths, silk dragons dangling overhead, and those iconic red paper lanterns in all shapes and sizes. But they’ve amped it up with neon glows, mirrored walls, bold red carpets, and teal pops of color - plus big round tables with lazy Susans for easy family-style sharing.

The bar’s gotten a major upgrade, too, now seating 12 with a fishtank for that extra retro flair. Sip on an expanded cocktail menu featuring the frozen Dole Whip-inspired Dole Survivor while soaking in the diner’s kitschy charm. Sadly, the Genghis Cohen Live music sessions from the old Kibitz Room couldn’t make the move, but don’t worry - the tunes live on across the street at Canter’s Deli, another Fairfax legend, every Wednesday and Thursday.

'Genghis Cohen isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a piece of LA’s soul - I’ve been coming here since I was a kid, and the new spot still feels like home,' says a longtime local patron.

The Menu: Egg Rolls, Kung Pao, and Late-Night Bites

Now, let’s get to the good stuff - the food. The menu at Genghis Cohen is a beast, so bring your crew because you’ll wanna order everything without denting your wallet, a rarity for a spot this cool in LA. Fan faves like the New York egg rolls stuffed with shrimp, pork, and veggies are back, alongside Crackerjack shrimp, Queen chicken, and standouts like garlicky sautéed green beans, cold sesame noodles with peanut sauce, and the triple kung pao - a spicy mix of chicken, beef, shrimp, and candied walnuts.

Got a sweet tooth or craving something tangy? The sweet and sour pork is calling your name. And for those late-night hangs, the bar menu after 10 p.m. offers exclusive Szechuan chicken sliders - think crispy fried chicken, Szechuan mayo, signature slaw, and pickles on a King’s Hawaiian bun. It’s the perfect bite after a night out in the city of angels.

Cocktails and Hollywood Lore: Sip with the Stars

No Genghis Cohen experience is complete without their legendary ‘foo foo’ drinks. Classic sips like the lychee martini, Szechuan margarita, and timeless mai tai are still on deck, plus a dedicated martini section for the classy crowd. If you can’t decide, try the trio of mini ‘tinis for a fun sampler, or go big with the Seinfeld, Party of Four punch bowl for your squad.

And speaking of Seinfeld, here’s a slice of Hollywood history - Larry David, the genius behind the iconic show, has been a regular here forever. Rumor has it the original Genghis Cohen inspired the infamous ‘The Chinese Restaurant’ episode, so you’re basically dining in sitcom royalty. Next time you’re sipping a mai tai, just imagine Larry cracking jokes at the next table.

Where to Find It: Your New Fairfax Hangout

Ready to dig in? Genghis Cohen’s new home is at 448 N Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036 - right in the thick of Fairfax’s bustling vibe. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newbie looking for a taste of LA history, this spot’s got something for everyone.

So, grab your friends, roll up with that West Coast energy, and dive into a plate of egg rolls or a punch bowl cocktail. Genghis Cohen isn’t just back - it’s better than ever, proving once again why it’s an LA institution that’ll never fade.