If you like PF Changs Asian Bistro, you might enjoy their spin-off Pei Wei Asian Diner. They opened up here in Jacksonville last spring/summer and I finally got the opportunity to try them out over the weekend.
I liked that they had a menu outside for you to look at before walking in. I think all restaurants should do this. This way you can decide if you really want it before walking into the establishment.
When I walked in their were more menu boards to look at while you waited in line and the restaurant had a very open feel. I liked the decor. I also like that you order your food at the front counter, retrieve a number, seat yourself, and then receive your food. They also have those touch screen Coke machines that I really like. I got their Chai Tea which was refreshing!
As an appetizer, I ordered these crab wontons.
To be completely honest, I would've been satisfied with just the wontons. They were full of crab and the sweet duck sauce was an amazing compliment to the wontons! I wish I would've ordered more than two. They were really tasty!
This was my main entree, Orange Peel Chicken. Looks good does't it? Welllll.... I don't know what I was expecting but....this wasn't it! Now it wasn't bad, but it certainly wasn't the best I've had either. It sort of reminded me of the frozen bags of PF Chang's Orange Chicken that I've bought from the frozen food aisle in the grocery store before. I don't know...maybe I was expecting too much.
Overall I'd have to give Pei Wei a C. The crab wontons saved the day and for them alone, I'll go back and give them another shot. Perhaps try a different dish! If you're interested in trying them and do so by Wednesday (11/21) you can receive 20% of of your meal by pledging to help Pei Wei donate to local food banks. I found this out via their website. I wish I would've been informed at the counter because I would've donated for the cause.
Anywho, I like this message in my fortune cookie. It's definitely something to ponder!
Have a good week!
~Trice
