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If you haven't noticed,
there has been a definite trend toward the opening of more Asian restaurants
in the river city. And many have taken the multi-cultural approach,
blending cuisines from different nations. Such is the concept at the
Tea House on Research Boulevard, just down from Ray's Steak House. The
idea there is to blend Chinese and Vietnamese dishes.
And from my dining experiences thus far, the concept is working beautifully.
I'm particularly fond of the Shrimp Rolls. These
delectable, wok-fried rolls are full of minced shrimp and they just
melt in your mouth. Order these first! Also try the Clams in Spicy Sauce.
This dish has a delightful flavor and texture that will please all clam
lovers. Another recommendation: The Miracle Shrimp. A very unusual dish,
the shrimp is lightly battered and served in a light, yet stable mayonnaise
sauce with roasted walnuts. Presented over crispy noodles, the taste
here is an aquired one. But once that acquisition is made, watch out!
You'll order it repeatedly.
Another favorite: The Shrimp with Broccoli. Presented
in an impeccable brown sauce, they do a lovely job with this classic.
Try it. And don't forget to try the Sesame Vegetables. This dish mixes
broccoli, water chestnuts, bamboo, carrots, mushrooms and napa cabbage
with a brown sauce on the side. Delicious.
The Vietnamese cuisine is equally compelling. The
Shrimp Pho Soup is a monstrous bowl of boiling hot love. As in love
the flavor from the stock and the abundance of shrimp, jalapenos, and
vermicelli mixed therein. It is a meal in itself. Great for colder weather.
The vermicelli bowls are also a huge treat. My favorite
is the Vermicelli with dried shredded pork. Topped with shredded carrots,
green onions and chopped peanuts, and of course, laden with the obligatory
fish sauce, this is filling and very tasty fare. And at only $4.95 for
a huge bowl, this makes for a marvelous lunch or dinner. Also try the
Fried Tofu and Jalapenos with garlic and salt and a lemon dipping sauce.
Good stuff. And again, very reasonable.
Have owner Tom brew you up one of his famous Chinese
teas at the end of a meal. Improves your circulation and your disposition.
Eating at the Tea House will improve your cash flow and offer you Asian
taste alternatives.
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