The strength and connection of Angelenos are what truly make Los Angeles home. In honor of this, Azay and The Yaki Papis are teaming up to distribute delicious food in an effort to fundraise for the local L.A. community.
Azay is a Japanese fusion restaurant that can be found in the heart of Downtown L.A.’s Little Tokyo. The restaurant has been around since 2019 and is owned by Philip Hirose, along with his parents Jo Ann and Akira. The Yaki Papis is made up of chefs and DJs that serve up good tunes and food. This dynamic crew is made up of Hideki, Louis A.K.A Input, Kris A.K.A Zion, and Ryan.
This actually isn’t the first time they’ve all joined forces. “Philip has been a dear friend of mine. We met through volunteering in the Little Tokyo community…” says Hideki, “He and his parents were so welcoming to us and allowed us to do one of our first major pop-ups outside of his restaurant… which was a fundraiser for a beloved community auntie who was let go of her job due to the pandemic.”
The last fundraiser was a complete success and they were able to raise $1800 with the help of locals. Now they’ve decided to throw another event where 100% of the profit made will be given back to the people.
“Philip and I care deeply about the community and there’s a lot of misplaced frustrations around the influx of unhoused people that are in Little Tokyo and how to improve the situation.” says Hideki, “I suggested that Azay start their own fund to provide direct support to anyone that may cross their path, knowing Philip has the heart and the social resources to help anyone who may have an extenuating basic need met.”
The true motivation behind this fundraising event is to connect with the community, while also strengthening it through mutual-aid. “[We] do this for fun and not for income…” says Hideki, “We’re just happy to be out with the people!” Azay’s For The People Fund will be used as a helping hand for anyone who needs it.
Folks can expect a good time full of music put on by The Yaki Papis, while also indulging in some freshly-made food. Bring your love, invite your family and friends, and remember no donation is too small. Prices are merely suggestions. Whether it’s $0.01 or $20, anyone in attendance is welcome to pay any amount they can.
Menu (Along with suggested donations):
– Nova Miso Chicken Donburi $10 (Rice bowl)
– Tacos Style $4
– Sunomono Ceviche $5 (Good for two people)
– Tofu substitutions are also available
By throwing this event, Hideki also shares with us that he hopes it can serve as a “…reminder that we can all do a little more to help others and that under all the craziness going on in the world, we have to nurture our basic humanity with conversation and connection to others.”
Date/ Time Of Event: Today, Sunday, April 24th – 6 P.M. to 9 P.M.
Location: Azay, 226 1st St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
This L.A. based non-profit donated much-needed supplies to Ukraine.