Xai Verandah Lounge is a new tea-focused Hollywood venue from owner Nadia Fakih featuring an outdoor terrace and a sumptuous drape-lined interior.
Executive Chef Cody Diegel, previously with Magnolia and Moomba, has constructed a pan-Mediterranean menu. Options include Spinach & Artichoke crepes ($8) with roasted pepper and Feta cheese; roasted butternut squash soup ($6) with chives and maple crème fraiche; braised beef short rib ($15) with seven spices, Yukon mashed potato, broccoli rabe and Port reduction; and a number of kebabs, including lamb top sirloin ($18) marinated with lebneh, garlic and Kaffir lime. You’ll also find a number of Mediterranean inspired salads and sandwiches, plus daily brunch until 2 PM. For dessert, look for banana chocolate bread pudding, Nutella crepes and mint chocolate chip ice cream sandwiches.
Xai’s loose leaf tea menu includes “tart and tangy” pomegranate green tea, Mandarin Silk oolong “with hints of cream and a stimulating citrus finish” and a two-person tableside preparation of black tea with rose and lemon verbena. If tea isn’t your thing, Xai also sells coffee drinks and fruit smoothies.
Xai is also happy to hook you up with a hookah, offering dozens of flavor fusions and even some hookah and tea pairings.
