Good Evening Vietnam!!!
Written: Sep 25 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Decor
Cons: Can get expensive
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| jbolten's Full Review: Ana Mandara |
Asian fetish is hot right now in the fashion community. In accordance, Ana Mandara offers the perfect place to soak up Asian culture, at least in the American sense. As soon as I walked into the restaurant, I felt the strong and delightful ambiance. You do indeed feel transported to Vietnam with all of the unique artifacts and interesting Asian decor. I liked their attention to detail, for example, the shrine that is placed near the hostess desk was filled with fresh fruit offerings and burning incense. Throughout the restaurant there is much eye candy to keep visitors entertained. Other sources of entertainment include live music that takes place on the second level near the bar area. Live music occurs on Friday and Saturday nights.
I have noticed many written critiques on Ana Mandara's food. For what it is worth, I went to this restaurant with an American born Vietnamese friend who enjoyed the food. I myself ordered the banana and chicken appetizer which was creatively presented in a banana leaf so that the food could continue to marinate in the lychee juice. For a main course, I had the temple's delight vegetarian dish. The alternating vegetables and tofu are stacked to resemble a temple. Having tasted other vegetarian dishes at other restaurants, this was definitely a cut above the rest and I would order it again.
For dessert, Ana Mandara offers authentic Vietnamese coffee (which is only available in caffeinated form, no decaf). The restaurant has the coffee shipped from a plantation in Vietnam so that diners can experience this treat across the Pacific Ocean.
I ordered the apple tart for dessert. Immediately you must be thinking, how Vietnamese can apple tart be?! Regardless of its origins, the dish was quickly consumed to the surprise of our waiter.
I am so excited to return to this restaurant. Whatever your taste buds decide about the food, your eyes will definitely be excited to devour the rich decor. I would recommend this restaurant for either a romantic night on the town with a loved one, or for large groups. The setting is accommodating to both types of groups with the low lighting and large space. There is even a separate room that can be reserved for large parties. With valet parking, there are no excuses not to enjoy this unique experience.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
jbolten
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Member: Jennifer Landry
Reviews written: 28
Trusted by: 8 members
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