John T.
Yelp
It's been over four years: time for an update!
In the time since I first experienced Far East, the menu options have expanded, they've built a bar and bar program and they've closed the gap between price and quantity. Time has been good to Far East. If it's been a little while since you've been in, you might want to examine that.
The food was very satisfying. I have had a variety of plates/dishes but what I keep coming back to are two items: the mini tumeric coconut pancakes and the specialty fried rice. Far East knows where it's located, so vegan and gluten-free options are clearly listed on the menu. This is a big plus for a cuisine that uses fish sauce and soy sauce as recipe staples. The mini pancakes come with lettuce, cilantro and a dipping sauce (not that you'll need it; the cakes are respectfully wet with their own sauce/glaze). They're also substantial. You'll want to share this app. The specialty fried (jasmine) rice comes packed with garlic, egg, onion, crab, and masago (among other ingredients). Yes, please. All of it.
The bar is a big plus. No longer do you need to go to a smokey dive in order to get a drink in East End. Neighborhood denizens, you're late night drink prayers have been answered. From beer to wine to cocktails (hello, lychee martini), Far East has you covered -- for prices that will make you question what part of town you're in.
Again: if it's been some time since you've been to Far East, change this. The restaurant has changed for the better and deserves your patronage. And, the bar stays open until 2. So, there's that.