The Exchange Restaurant In The Freehand Hotel

Recently reopened after a two-year pause with rising chef Narita Santos at the helm, The Exchange features a cross-pollination of influences that reflects Santos’ Filipina, Saudi Arabian, and Southern Californian background, as well as her time spent in kitchens like Lucques and Bestia. Located on the lobby level of the Freehand Hotel, the dining room features wood accents and warm orange and teal tones, with playful design choices that refer to the restaurant’s international perspective. Standout starters include Tiradito with peach amba, aji amarillo, smoked trout roe, avocado, and toasted buckwheat served alongside plantain chips and Falafel served with a rich butternut squash tahini sauce, while the crispy, skin-on Duck Carnitas and Whole Fried Fish, drizzled in a sweet and sour sauce, represent compelling options for the main course. The Turkish Coffee Old Fashioned is a great way to jolt your senses after a meal, but don’t disregard the restaurant’s natural wine program.