Daniel C.
Yelp
Located within the vast Fresh World International Supermarket, one might overlook the hidden gem that is Lil' Bowl Thai & Japanese Fusion. Don't be fooled by its unassuming location - this spot boasts some tasty and flavorful dishes!
When I first attempted to find the restaurant, I wasn't able to locate it. On my second trip here, with a little help from a friendly Fresh World employee, I stumbled upon Lil' Bowl nestled quietly behind a wall on the right side of Fresh World. I ended up ordering the Pad Thai and Tom Yum Noodle Soup, both of which left a lasting impression on my palate.
Pad Thai - There was a good blend of sweet/sour/salty within it, and just the right amount of crunch from the nuts, with bean sprouts sprinkled on top. There was also a lime on each dish I ordered. I ordered my Pad Thai with chicken for the protein, and there was a decent amount within it. Enjoyed this dish.
Tom Yum Noodle Soup - A warm and comforting bowl of rice noodles, with a couple bites of various seafood, including shrimp. There is a spicy kick to this dish, so I would avoid this dish if I did not enjoy spicy food, but I personally enjoy spicy food and the spice-level on this dish. Like most Tom Yum soups, the broth had a distinct, bold, sour, spicy, yet slightly sweet taste to it.
The ambiance is seamlessly integrated within the supermarket, and there's an intimate feel to the place, because of the three dedicated tables for the restaurant diners. It offers a unique experience where you're surrounded by the bustling supermarket, but eating at a restaurant. The service was incredibly attentive, accommodating, and cared about my dining experience.
I've only scratched the surface of their menu, only trying some of their Thai dishes. Next visit, I plan to dive into their Japanese menu items. For anyone looking for Thai and Japanese fusion within Manassas, tucked away in an unassuming area, Lil' Bowl seems to be a great option.