Those searching for an upscale Asian dining experience can find it in an unlikely place on their next visit to Phoenix. Zang Asian Bistro, in downtown Glendale, is located in a historic district that houses quaint antique shops and ethnic eateries. It serves tasty fusion-style Asian fare in a sleek modern setting that’s far more reminiscent of a tony Scottsdale neighborhood. Zang’s menu reflects the chef’s skill in Thai, Japanese and Chinese-style cooking. It’s worth a trip for lunch or dinner to sample tastes of the Orient in a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere. Here’s visit Zang Asian Bistro in Glendale.
Instructions
1. Expect the unusual, decor-wise. Instead of the usual red and black color theme, paper lanterns and smiling buddhas, Zang features a clean, blond-wood exterior, comfy booths and brightly colored Chinese folk art paintings on the walls. The cosmopolitan feel of the restaurant is also reflected in the menu, which offers cuisine from Thailand, Szechuan province and Japan along with traditional Chinese dishes.
2. Plan to spend $40 for two at dinner, including a cocktail or glass of wine. Enjoy a glass of sake with appetizers such as Japanese potstickers, wonton dumplings filled with chicken. Keep the Japanese theme going with panko chicken (breaded white meat with a slightly sweet lemon sauce).
3. Return for lunch to enjoy one of the specials, averaging $10 or less. Featured are an array of noodle, rice and stir-fry dishes, served with a salad or soup. Ask the owner, David Chang, for recommendations if you’re unsure; he is usually on site and unfailingly gracious and helpful.
4. Venture into spicy territory with tom yam soup from Thailand served with chili oil, or Szechuan-style kung pao chicken, both satisfyingly fiery dishes.Tame down the tastebuds with chop suey, served with vegetables, chicken or beef, for a milder dish. Enjoy vegetarian options such as Shanghai eggplant served in a garlicky sauce. Seafood lovers will want to try the fish in black bean sauce or sizzling seafood platter.
5. Zang Asian Bistro is located at 6835 N. 58th Dr., Glendale, AZ 85301, about a 30 minute drive from downtown Phoenix and Sky Harbor airport. For directions, hours and more information, call (623) 847-8888.
Tags: Asian Bistro, served with, Zang Asian, Zang Asian Bistro, Bistro Glendale, from Thailand
