We are continuing to have fun testing out places to eat along Mass. Ave. in Arlington Heights. This past weekend we made it to three places: 1) China Cafe C+ Seems like a regular neighborhood place, with most of its business in take-out, and a few special dishes. Might be good if they have your favorite thing and you like their version. Hubby is into pickled pork soup and liked their version. 2) Mr. Sushi D- I was surprised that this place was not better. Toraya is definitely much better on every front unless you need a place for a big group, and then I'd go to someplace else. The edamame was overcooked, they didn't offer anything but the most pedestrian sushi - not even any shrimp tempura maki. The unagi nigiri was tough, thin and cold. The shumai were cold. Tempura was greasy, with smallish shrimp. I was not impressed. 3) Paris Gourmet A+ This is a take-out place. Ooooh, la la! We went in to take a look, and ended up chatting with the very pleasant brother and sister who run the place. And just could not resist their offerings - croissants, pate, cheeses, summer sausage, and a case full of things to heat up for dinner like quiche or beef bourginon or chicken. They tossed in a couple of free huge meringue cookies dipped in chocolate... Everything was divine...even the baked goods the next day...and the prices seem very reasonable for this level of taste and convenience. We even went back another time to stock up... irresistable! We also peaked in at the Edwardian Tea Room and talked to their owner. I think I will give them awhile to get the kinks worked out, but it had possibilities! Any comments on the Jade Garden? We picked up their menu and the place smelled fabulous. -B
Massachusetts