Sydney B.
Yelp
I've lived in this area for over three years, but as a creature of habit, I don't venture beyond the trusted names. Shame on me. I don't know how long this has been here, but it's a first for me.
The chimes at the front door let you know, you're coming into a chillax destination.
The layout of the restaurant seems a bit mom/pop'py, but I like that. If you're unforgiving and expect only the best of everything when it comes to the fact that a 'wet floor' sign is stored in the middle wall section, because it's practical, even if not perfect... then you'll probably find things to pick at here.... But me...
I walked in.... I was greeted immediately, and not for more than 2-3 minutes at a time, was I ever without someone in short range to ask for help if I wanted it... though I didn't... because they offered and anticipated all my needs before I needed to ask for anything.
I know it's not Japanese, but part of me hoped to see plum wine or sake but that is not at the bar here... but... OMG... you MUST try the Lavender Lemonade! The freshness and subtle kick makes this a perfect dinner and date drink both... I had to and no issues at all... but this was an ENJOYABLE drink... if that makes sense... it's not to feel it (though somewhere into the 2nd, even if pacing, you might start to... so be drink responsibly). But as an essential oils fanatic, I ADORED the fresh lavender in this drink... in fact, I'm taking them home with me.
As far as the meals themselves... I got a simple chicken fried rice... it's a much larger serving than it appears but the chicken is perfectly thin-sliced and not once did I have to wonder what I might bite into... the quality was wonderful.
The Mapo Tofu, according to my (adult) son was 'spicy' but nothing extreme (though he likes things really spicy, so exercise caution).
Now that we've found this place, we'll definitely put it on our 'regular' list of destinations.
If I had to pick one thing that wasn't 9-10... the fortune cookies might have been a little over baked.... But by the time we got to fortune cookies, trust me, we didn't care!