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Restaurant Reviews

Xi’An Street Foods – Allston

October 20, 2018 by Rich 16 Comments

[3.51/5] I recently went to Xi’an last summer and I enjoyed every bit of it. It was truly a one of a kind city. Not to put such a high expectation for a restaurant but I started missing the ancient capital and anything that came close would do. Enter Xi’an Street Foods.

[3.51/5] I recently went to Xi’an last summer and I enjoyed every bit of it. It was truly a one of a kind city. Not to put such a high expectation for a restaurant but I started missing the ancient capital and anything that came close would do. Enter Xi’an Street Foods.

Review #051
Restaurant Type: Fast Casual Dining.

Food (65%)
Taste to price 4/5
Quality to price 4/5
Portion to price 2/5
Average = 3.33

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 3.5/5
Promptness 4/5
Average = 3.75

Cleanliness (15%)
Bathroom na
Dining area 4/5
Kitchen area 4/5
Average = 4

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
 = [2.16]+[0.75]+[0.6]
 = 3.51

The Pluses…  
+ I ordered myself Combo #2 which was the PORK ROUJIAMOU, HOT & SOUR SOUP NOODLES, and DRINK. I usually enjoy food on the sour side and love black vinegar (there’s a lot of that in there). As for spiciness, I didn’t find it spicy at all but then again, I have a high tolerance.  
+ Nice interior decor! I like the bian lian masks on the wall although it reminded me more of Sichuan but that’s ok too because I love Chengdu. On the other side of the wall is a modern design bridging the two worlds together.
+ Nice menu. It’s beautifully laid out on a digital screen with lots of pictures for those preferring visuals over words. I like that its minimized making it pretty clear of their specialties.
+ Loving the ambiance. They play some pretty cool Chinese acoustic and folk music.  

The Negs…
– With a high price tag, expectations tends to be raised with it. For their roujiamou, it was good but not for that price. I expected the pork to be bursting out of the bread. The same can be said about their soups.
– I’m not really a fan of plastic bowls and utensils for soup. It takes away from the experience. It’s all about congruency where the impression of the food should match the ambiance and brand. When I think of plastic bowls and utensils, I think of instant noodles which I’m sure is not the message they want to convey to customers. As a suggestion, I’d like to see them use ceramic dinnerware for customers eating in and plastic for those taking out.

The Neutrals…
o Just like the many restaurants along Brighton Ave. this place is tiny. Just wanted to forewarn you.

In Conclusion…
Overall I enjoyed my time at Xi’an Street Foods. I liked their soup and ROUJIAMOU (Chinese burger for those not in the know) but my biggest gripe is the price. At that price point, portions should be larger and shouldn’t be served in plastic dinnerware. If those two things can be addressed, then this place would have a much higher rating. Those are really the only setbacks here. I would love to come back again.

#ChowYouLater

Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: Allston, Chinese, Chinese Burger, Xian

Garlic ‘n Lemons – Allston

October 14, 2018 by Rich 10 Comments

[4.04/5] I think it’s about time I’ve reviewed Garlic ‘n Lemons. I’ve been coming here for years. I’m pretty routine when it comes to food and I find myself at Garlic ‘n Lemons when I’m in the need for something tasty, quick, cheap, and somewhat healthy. Does this place hit those areas? Let’s find out.

Review #050
Restaurant Type: Casual Dining.

Food (65%)
Taste to price 4/5
Quality to price 4/5
Portion to price 4.5/5
Average = 4.17

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 3.5/5
Promptness 5/5
Average = 4.25

Cleanliness (15%)
Bathroom 3/5
Dining area 3.5/5
Kitchen area 3/5
Average = 3.17

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
 = [2.71]+[0.85]+[0.48]
 = 4.04

The Pluses…  
+ VALUE, VALUE, VALUE. Garlic ‘n Lemons is the value pick here. This place is like a factory for SHAWARMA and KEBOBS. They just crank them out like nobody’s business.  
+ ROTISSERIES laid out right in front of you to pick your meat with lots of variety between Beef, Spicy Beef, Chicken, and Spicy Chicken.
+ Speedy and accurate. Their setup is similar to a Chipotle or Subways assembly line. You pick and choose what you want.
+ Great PORTION size especially for the price at $12.50 for a plate of shawarma.
+ I love the MAGIC SAUCE. I can’t find it anywhere else and it goes so well with the BEEF SHAWARMA.
+ Spacious dining area. Tables are spread apart at a reasonable length, and not too loud.
+ Great sides. Lots of options to choose from. The ingredients are all there for you to pick. You can customize your plate however you like it. I like that they have different salads, veggies, and some Mediterranean staples like Grape leaves and Falafel.
+ Very VEGETARIAN friendly.
+ The municipal parking behind their building is a huge convenience if you like to drive into Allston.

The Negs…
– The SHAWARMA meat can be a little dry at times.

The Neutrals…
o I have to confess the portion size is so good, sometimes my girlfriend and I would split a shawarma plate order. We would do the extra meat, add another side, and it would come out under $20. Not bad at all if you’re on a budget.

In Conclusion…
After having a bad experience somewhere else, I’ve come to appreciate them more than ever before. There’s not much not to like about this place. They deliver in the areas of quality, speediness, and prices. What I like most about them is Garlic n Lemons knows exactly what they are and it shows the moment you walk in making this a worthwhile repeat for me over and over again.

#ChowYouLater

Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: Allston, Halal, Mediterranean, Sharwarma, Syrian

Tarboosh – Boston

October 13, 2018 by Rich 18 Comments

[2.83/5] What do you do when your go-to like the Super 88 Market Food Court is packed and you just want a quick comforting bite of food?  Naturally, one would browse the area for something similiar and just like that my cravings travelled thousands of miles from something Asian to Mediterranean within a split second. I wanted some slices of protein on a bed of rice. This is where Tarboosh came into play. With promising reviews and takeout options, this was the best option given the circumstances. My journey begins…

Review #049
Restaurant Type: Casual Dining.

Food (65%)
Taste to price 2/5
Quality to price 2.5/5
Portion to price 3/5
Average = 2.5

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 3.5/5
Promptness 4/5
Average = 3.75

Cleanliness (15%)
Bathroom n/a
Dining area 3/5
Kitchen area 3/5
Average = 3

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
= [1.63]+[0.75]+[0.45]
= 2.83

The Pluses…  
+ The staff was nice. There were 2 guys behind the counter. The one that took my order seemed like a cool dude, like someone I’d hang out with.  
+ OPEN KITCHEN. Customers can see everything going on. The only problem is that it’s a double edged sword. You’ll see what I mean when you read below. I admire their transparency though.
+ I liked the seasoning they used on their RICE which made it pretty delicious.
+ Their SALAD was fresh. Their tomato, pickles, and lettuce looked really good. Lots of color.

The Negs…
– I don’t think I’ve ever been to a Sharwarma place without the presence of a ROTISSERIE. Most places have them out in the front for the customers to see what they’re getting. At first, I was thinking they hid it in the back but standing there, I saw my server open the fridge behind the register and pulled some raw meat out. He then ran to the microwave to thaw it out (I’m guessing), and as the grill warmed up he threw it on there. At first, I didn’t think it was mine but once he put it in the plate and handed it to me, you know I couldn’t speculate any further 🙁
– When most people order a Sharwarma Plate for dinner. Most expect layers of sliced meat on top of a bed of rice. When I got my order, I was surprised to see slices of a wrap placed on the side with rice and a few pieces of lettuce, and pickles/tomatoes slices. When I bit into the wrap, there was very little meat in there. Not what I expected especially at $14 plus tax.
– PRICEY, PRICEY, PRICEY. I could get the same thing but with larger portions and equal quality at Garlic ‘n Lemons for $12.50 and Azama Grill for $12. I’m sorry but what I got that day was not $14 worth of food.

The Neutrals…
o Not much here.

In Conclusion…
The reason I enjoy shawarma plates is because of the balance of macronutrients. I know I can get my fiber, carbs, and protein in one plate. At Tarboosh, I felt I was committing carbacide. I can only comment on the LAMB SHARWARMA, so I am hoping their other entrees are better. From the pictures alone the MIX GRILL, and some of their Syrian delicacies looks really good. I’d come back again but I’d have to say my journey was not worth the risk of getting my car getting towed at the 88 lot.  

#ChowYouLater


Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: Boston, Mediterranean, Sharwarma, Syrian

Ma Maison – Boston

October 2, 2018 by Rich 5 Comments

[4.11/5] So Boston doesn’t have much for French Cuisine. We’re known more for Italian, Seafood, and Chinese. At times, I will want some French and when I had a sudden craving for foie gras I knew Ma Maison would be next on my list. How does this Beacon Hill favorite stack up? Let’s find out.

Review #048
Restaurant Type: Fine Dining.
My 1st Impressions: Mi casa es su casa? Whoops, wrong language.

Food (65%)
Taste to price 4/5
Quality to price 4.5/5
Portion to price 4/5
Average = 4.17

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 4/5
Promptness 4/5
Average = 4

Cleanliness (15%)
Bathroom 4/5
Dining area 4/5
Kitchen area 4/5
Average = 4

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
   = [2.71]+[0.8]+[0.6]
   = 4.11

The Pluses…  
+ Prices were very decent. French food is known for higher priced dishes. For everything you get, this is truly a value pick and then some. The prices here are not out of the ball park ridiculous.
+ If the restaurant was trying to achieve an intimate setting, they’ve excelled at that. It was very romantic with dim lights, cozy furniture, and warm settings. I felt like I was welcomed to a second home.
+ The Dinner Menu may just be a page but there’s enough variety there to keep you exploring and coming back for more.  
+ I usually don’t socialize with my neighbors, but man we were sitting so close to each other it was inevitable. This was a positive experience as we practically shared food with each other and exchanged entree suggestions.
+ SIX BURGUNDY ESCARGOTS IN GARLIC PARSLEY was good. It was still hot 15 minutes in because of the cast iron pan. When you bite into it, it was so tender and juicy. I was an experience more so than a dish.  
+ PAN SEARED FOIE GRAS WITH RED PEARS was pretty good. Sweet, but not overboard and it surprisingly balanced well with the foie gras. Pair it with a KRONENBOURG.
+ Couples galore! Great date night or even going solo.

The Negs…
– No major negatives here.

The Neutrals…
o Bread was ok. I can’t really complain since it’s complimentary with the meal but I would expect it to be more like a french baguette; crispy on the outside and soft, airy in the middle.
o I generally prefer foods with as little salt as possible so for me, I thought the SAUTEED RAY WING was a little salty perhaps due to the capers. Besides that, it was cooked the way I liked it.

In Conclusion…
Just like the name implies, I felt very welcomed like an honored guest. The ambiance felt like another home, as it was tiny cute and intimate. I also enjoyed interacting with other guests. Even if you’re not in a social mood, it’s difficult not to ask the neighbors what they ordered or to stir up a small talk. I was welcomed every step of the way, and they did a great job hosting. I felt like an honored guest and for that, plus the good food, I will come back.

#ChowYouLater

Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: Beacon Hill, Boston, French

Ming’s Seafood Restaurant – Malden

September 21, 2018 by Rich 9 Comments

[3.48/5] They say the third time’s the charm. You see I’ve been trying to eat here two times now, but failed on both occasions because the wait time was unbearable. Finally, on the third try I finally got the chance. When my number was called, I got so excited I wanted to twerk my way to the table. Sure, there was still a wait but at least, it wasn’t ridiculous at 20 minutes. How does the DIM SUM taste? Read more to find out.

Review #047
Restaurant Type: Casual Dining.
My 1st Impressions: I’ve wondered many times, when, and if I would ever lose my Ming’s virginity?

Food (65%)
Taste to price 3.5/5
Quality to price 3.5/5
Portion to price 3.5/5
Average = 3.5

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 3/5
Promptness 3/5
Average = 3

Cleanliness (15%)
Bathroom 4/5
Dining area 4/5
Kitchen area 4/5
Average = 4

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
  = [2.28]+[0.6]+[0.6]
  = 3.48

The Pluses…  
+ The ambiance is great. If you want an eye opening experience, come here during their peak hours; there’s a lot of culture to experience.
+ One of the nicer Chinese restaurants, in terms, of interior design. Elegant with touches of modernism intermixed with the usual themes of a Chinese Restaurant. I can dig it.
+ Very family and large group friendly.  
+ Their fish tank is filled with aquatic creatures; clean and well maintained!

The Negs…
– The wait time. Not much else I can say here. I know it’s not the restaurant’s fault but don’t say I didn’t warn ya.

The Neutrals…
o Take this comment however you want, but the DIM SUM here was just OK for me. It’s neither horrendous nor great, just somewhere in the middle. And that’s not a bad thing either.

In Conclusion…
If you’re desperate for DIM SUM and the only option is Ming’s then, by all means stop by. But if you’re like me and live in Boston, the wait and anticipation does not match the food. It’s kind of a shame really because the wait unfairly places the DIM SUM on such a high pedestal which grew taller than Yao Ming every minute passed. With that said and out of the way, there are many better DIM SUM options in Chinatown with a shorter wait time. This review is solely for the DIM SUM, so I will have to come back to update you all with their lunch/dinner offerings because their fish tank looks too good to ignore!

#ChowYouLater

Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: cantonese, Chinese, dim sum, Malden

Mala Kungfu – Allston

September 13, 2018 by Rich 45 Comments

[3.86/5] When Refuge Cafe went down I was immediately pulled in, curious of what to come next. Like the nosey bathrobed neighbor I was, I would peer through the window hoping I’d get a glimpse of a clue. This is a prime location afterall, Allston’s version of Time Square. OK I’m exaggerating a little, but either way this is a major commercial intersection. Whatever came next had to be exciting. [Oh god, I’m beginning to sound like a townie.] Here we go!

Review #046
   Restaurant Type: Fast Casual Dining.
   My 1st Impression: First there was a KungFu Panda, then          
   KungFu Tea, and now Mala KungFu! *cue the music* Everybody      
   was kung fu fighting!

Food (65%)
   Taste to price 3/5
   Quality to price 3.5/5
   Portion to price 4/5
   Average = 3.5

Service (20%)  
   Friendliness 4.5/5
   Promptness 4.5/5
   Average = 4.5

Cleanliness (15%)
   Bathroom n/a
   Dining area 4.5/5
   Kitchen area 4.5/5
   Average = 4.5

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
               = [2.28]+[0.9]+[0.68]
               = 3.86

The Pluses…  
+ Very passionate and welcoming owner. As soon as I walked in I was immediately greeted. He walked us through and curated all the offerings of the restaurant. I appreciated that.
+ You make your own bowl here so if you like or despise anything in particular you can make it anyway you like. The choice is yours.
+ For the soft opening promo, he gave us complimentary seltzer water and beef toppings. That was a kind gesture 🙂
+ BBQ LAMB was how I liked it: Hot, tender, juicy, and heavy on the chili powder.
+ BROTH was delicious. Rich in flavor, and not overly salty. It was similar to the MALA TANG in China.
+ Spacious dining area, huge 4K TV! Lots of room to maneuver all
you want. If you have Invisible Lat Syndrome like me, this is a dream come true.
+ Lots of natural air flow as they keep their windows open (weather permitting). One of the few Asian soup themed restaurants to do so. Best view for people watching.
+ Very clean all around, new everything.

The Negs…
– With all that open space, I would like to see more for toppings much like the many MALA XIANG GUO places have it set up. I also think given the similarities, they could easily offer MALA XIANG GUO as an option.  
– I’m all for the single item restaurant movement, but in this instance, I want more menu items. Nowadays, with so many soup options what is their Unique Selling Proposition (USP)?
– At checkout we were told, “Other restaurants require 15%, we only charge 10% for tips. It’s for the kitchen and this will help them.” I think that’s very kind of the owner to watch for his staff, but there must be some kind of cultural misunderstanding because in America, that’s not going to be well received, as many reviewers have pointed out.

The Neutrals…
o The owner is fluent in English, Chinese, Korean, and Japanese. I thought that was pretty cool.  

In Conclusion…
Mala Kung Fu is one of the few restaurants in the area to serve MALA TANG or MALA SOUP. They are a solid choice if you’re craving for this particular item. With a highly visible location and high foot traffic, they should do well especially in the winter. I look forward to coming back.

#ChowYouLater


Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: Allston, Chinese, Mala Tang

Porròn and Piña Hartford

September 7, 2018 by Rich 14 Comments

[3.95/5] So we’re not from the area at all and looking for a place to grub before heading to see the Lion King Musical at Bushnell. The positive reviews, interior, and an odd craving for cured ham brought us here. Did Porron and Pina satisfy? Read more to find out.

Review #045
Restaurant Type: Casual Dining.
My Short Summary Sentence: Yo no hablo español.

Food (65%)
Taste to price 4/5
Quality to price 4.5/5
Portion to price 3.5/5
Average = 4

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 4/5
Promptness 2.5/5
Average = 3.25

Cleanliness (15%)
Bathroom 5/5
Dining area 4.5/5
Kitchen area 4.5/5
Average = 4.67

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
   = [2.6]+[0.65]+[0.7]
   = 3.95

The Pluses…  
+ Uber friendly hostess. We were immediately greeted with a big smile upon entering. I enjoyed that.
+ You’ll notice there’s a meat slicer at the bar out in the open. I don’t think I’ve ever seen that before and I kind of like it. I’m all for transparency.
+ I had the IBERICO DE BELLOTA (or Iberico Ham de Bellota) for a starter. It was good.
+ For my main entree, we split a PAELLA “VALENCIA”. The clams and mussels were cooked to my liking, succulent and free of sand.
+ For drinks I would recommend the RED SANGRIA. It did not taste like it came from some prebottled mix like many places often uses. It tasted the right way, as in using fresh fruits and real ingredients. We tend to like things on the dryer side, so if you have a sweet tooth you can always ask them to pour some more liquid sugar.  
+ Ambiance was great. Lots of youth and energy. Interior was upscale and contemporary.
+ Overall, the whole place was spotless clean. I wish all restaurants were this clean.

The Negs…
– Service could use some work. I realize they were short staffed that day considering our waitress was both bartending drinks and waiting tables. Given the situation she did her best and I applaud that. However, the runners could be more attentive. There were many times I made eye contact with them and even flagged them but they just walked passed me. Hopefully, that was just Front of the House miscommunication that day.

The Neutrals…
o The menu was minimalistic which I can dig. Straight to the point. As a suggestion, I’d like to see a highlight square around some of their specialities for those not familiar with the Restaurant or Spanish cuisine.

In Conclusion…
If I’m ever in Hartford again, I would come back. There were some mishaps with service but I’m sure they’ll improve. There were some dishes I’m legitimately interested in based on the images I’ve seen such as the DUCK LEGS for starters, and the CHURROS for dessert. Those are enough to bait me back in. Overall, I had a good time. Thankyou for the meal!


Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: Connecticut, Hartford, Spanish

Szechuan Mountain House (NYC)

September 6, 2018 by Rich

[4.57/5] So what do you do if you’re dying for good Sichuan food? I just came from Chengdu about a month ago and I’ve had this insatiable craving for Sichuan food ever since I left. I’ve tried many other Szechuan restaurants in the states but it just wasn’t the same and my stomach’s only gotten hangrier. You see, this craving is one not to mess with because it’s a like an addiction. The stomach, like a child, throwing tantrums until it has its way. Well, I believe I found the closest restaurant in the East Coast to quiet that rage.

Review #044
Restaurant Type: Casual Dining.
My Short Summary: You call yourself “Szechuan” but to me, it reminds me more of Sichuan 🙂

Food (65%)
Taste to price 5/5
Quality to price 5/5
Portion to price 4.5/5
Average = 4.83

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 3.5/5
Promptness 4/5
Average = 3.75

Cleanliness (15%)
Bathroom 4.5/5
Dining area 4.5/5
Kitchen area 4.5/5
Average = 4.5

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
   = [3.14]+[0.75]+[0.68]
   = 4.57

The Pluses…  
+ The Menu was quite extensive. It was like a picture book and I enjoyed going through it. The best part was how the pictures actually looked like the actual dishes!
+ Dinnerware was exceptional. China plates and tea mugs were not generic!
+ One of my favorite is the BRAISED FROG W SPICY CHILI BROTH. They did it right. Cooked to perfection, no lingering “fishy” taste.
+ Another one of my favorites was their FRIED CONY MEAT W HOT PEPPER. Again, cooked to perfection: meaty, tender, and moist (that’s what she said).
+ Sichuan Food in America that is actually spicy!
+ The presentation of the food was done very nicely. I started to drool the moment they sat the dishes down. Lots and lots of red and peppercorn aroma!
+ The SLICED PORK BELLY WITH CHILI GARLIC SAUCE is a must starter. A little gimmicky but otherwise, fun and different.
+  Beautiful decor and ambiance. The little pond and koi fish was a nice touch. It could have easily been another table but I respect the decision to put a pond there. It adds to the Chinese theme.

The Negs…
– Bring your favorite mahjong set because the wait time can be a bummer. We waited for about an hour. If you’re patient, then I’d say the food is well worth the wait.

The Neutrals…
o I haven’t been to a restaurant that charged for a second round of pickled veggies provided at the table. Must be a NYC thing? Someone please confirm.

In Conclusion…
Come here. This place is worth repeating over and over again for your Sichuan fix. I don’t mind the wait. If you’ve ever had dishes from Chengdu you will know what I mean. Somebody do me a favor and take me to a Sichuanholics Anonymous session!

Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: Chinese, Manhattan, new york city, nyc, Sichuan, Szechuan

Tasty Pot Allston

August 31, 2018 by Rich 16 Comments

[4.38/5] I would be one wealthy dude if I got a dollar for all the times I’ve passed Tasty Pot waiting for them to open. So many “hot pot” themed restaurants in the area, yet all offering their own take on it. This one may just be the one to stand out.

Review #043
Restaurant Type: Casual Dining.
My short summary sentence: Tasty Pot has got it going on!

Food (65%)
Taste to price 4.5/5
Quality to price 4.5/5
Portion to price 4.5/5
Average = 4.5

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 4/5
Promptness 4.5/5
Average = 4.25

Cleanliness (15%)
Bathroom 3.5/5
Dining area 4.5/5
Kitchen area 4/5
Average = 4

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
   = [2.93]+[0.85]+[0.6]
   = 4.38

The Pluses…  
+ The wait was worth it. How can this restaurant with the most unsuspecting exterior be so drastically different inside. When you walk in, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know how much effort was put in building the space. I mean, they got brand new furniture, brick busting dragons on the wall, and an open kitchen right in the middle as you enter. That’s when I knew this place was serious.
+ I ordered the TAIWANESE SUPREME SPICY HOT SOUP which is their flagship entree. At $17.99 split between 2 people, that is a steal!
+ Portion sizes are out of this world. Just look at the pictures, they look they’re on steroids.
+ I chose the FLAMING SPICY option which is the spiciest of them all. I have to warn you that when they say its the spiciest, they really mean it. They don’t hold back and my tolerance is pretty high. Just something for you to consider.
+ Food came out lightning quick. Thor must have been cookin’ in the back.
+ Waiters were everywhere waiting to service you.
+ Definitely a place worth repeating for me.

The Negs…
– No major negatives here.

The Neutrals…
o The baby octopus was not really baby octopus. They were more like College Freshman 15 sized 🙂
o My GF likes their soundtrack. We suspect the owner came from the same generation. Lots of Jay Chou and JJ Lin 😛

In Conclusion…
Tasty Pot is for real. If they keep up and maintain the quality of their soft opening, I can see them escaping with the crown for best hot pot in Allston/Brighton. I’ll be back. Chow!

Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: Allston, Chinese, Hot pot, Taiwanese

Darbar Brighton

August 30, 2018 by Rich 11 Comments

[4.12/5] We originally stopped by the day before and one of the owners told us to visit the following day for their Eid Al-adha buffet. I was intrigued how passionate and kind he was, as he took the time to teach me what Eid Al-adha was about. Although we were starving, we decided to wait and boy was I glad because the food turned out to be amazing!

Review #042
Restaurant Type: Casual Dining with Buffet Options.
My short summary sentence: Eid Mubarak! A time for celebration with lots of food!  

Food (65%)
Taste to price 4/5
Quality to price 4/5
Portion to price 5/5
Average = 4.33

Service (20%)  
Friendliness 3.5/5
Promptness 4/5
Average = 3.75

Cleanliness (15%)
Bathroom n/a
Dining area 4/5
Kitchen area 3.5/5
Average = 3.75

Overall Score = [F(.65)]+[S(.20)]+C(.15)]
   = [2.81]+[0.75]+[0.56]
   = 4.12

The Pluses…  
+ For $18.99, it’s a steal given the variety of dishes you get. They had a little bit of everything that day. I easily ate over the value I paid for.
+ The owners were very nice. It’s a family environment. As soon as you walk in, it feels like a family runs the place which makes me feel at home in some ways.
+ The food was luscious. My favorite were the GOAT BIRYANI, BEEF KORMA, and TANDOORI CHICKEN. The TANDOORI CHICKEN tasted freshly grilled. Can’t beat that.
+ Waiter was pretty attentive. I like that my water was constantly filled. If you don’t know me, I drink a lot of water :p

The Negs…
– I’ve been here other times before and it can be a hit or miss. At times their buffet is good and other times it’s ok. One thing’s for sure is I’ll be coming here every Eid Al-adha 🙂

The Neutrals…
o The prior times I went, I was always asked if I wanted Nan. Maybe there was some miscommunication by the wait staff or maybe Nan did not come with the day’s special? Either way, it wasn’t communicated to me.  


Filed Under: Restaurant Reviews Tagged With: Brighton, Buffet, Halal, Indian, Pakistani

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My name is Rich. I'm a restaurant consultant, content creator, and recipe developer. I'm here to help you balance the two worlds of eating out and eating in. I've worked in the food industry for over 10 years and along the way I've learned a thing or two about restaurants and developing my own recipes. Read More…

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