Fri 20 Mar 2009
Cafe Asia: Pan Asian Crowd Pleasers
Posted by capitalspice under Restaurant Reviews
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Ever had one of those nights when no one can quite agree on dinner? Usually this devolves into nice fighting: “Well, I’d like vegetarian but whatever you guys want” and then “Oh, well. Japanese sounds good but if you want to do something else I don’t mind.” Don’t waste precious minutes of your life on this jibba jabba – just make a reservation at Cafe Asia. 
Serving up dishes of Asian-influenced food ranging from Chinese to Thai to Japanese, Cafe Asia is a neighborhood standard across the DC metro area, but I most often find myself in their Rosslyn and downtown DC locations. Walking across the threshold of both Cafe Asia locations brings you into a soaring, modern restaurant with minimalist and sleek decor. The minimalist theme ends on the walls though – portions at Cafe Asia are a good size and I’ve often walked away with a doggie bag.
If you’re feeling indulgent, check out spicy and sweet fried calamari served crisp and sized to share. Crab wontons, served in almost bite-sized pieces, are also worth a try. On healthier days , edamame served in their pods are an easy treat. My favorite appetizer are summer rolls which are wrapped in rice paper with shrimp, rice noodles and cilantro and come with a peanut dipping sauce.
Entrees run the gamut from red curry to General Tsao chicken to pad thai. Bento boxes with sushi and maki are available for delivery or in-restaurant order, served with small portions of miso soup. Order that soup as a main course and it will arrive in a bowl large enough for swimming laps. While the regular sushi menu is unimaginative, occasional gems can be found on the special rolls menu. (They come at a price though - many cost $12 or more per roll.)
Overall, Cafe Asia isn’t going to deliver culinary gems like Sushi Taro but it’s a solid bet for lunch meetings or large groups. The menu is broad enough to please just about any palate, which is why it remains a significant work lunch destination for office-bound neighbors, and large appetizer portions kick start a congenial meal.
Cafe Asia – Downtown
1720 I St NW
Washington, DC 20006
Cafe Asia – Rosslyn
1550 Wilson Blvd
Arlington, VA 22209
Just ate here last Thursday night and the sushi was very fresh and quite delicious. Still no Sushi Taro.
As for the design of Cafe Asia – you will definitely feel like you are not in DC (which is fun for one night). But, I think the layout could be more successful.