Cuisine:

• Asian
• Fusion
• Chinese
• Others

Buddakan Description:
Who knew that a former cookie factory could ooze opulence? At Buddakan, the subtle concrete-colored entryway leads to an airy bar and lounge where lattice-screen walls offer hints that something impressive lies on the floor below. Like its sibling in Philadelphia, this eatery makes an impact with sheer size, its décor and its savory Asian-Fusion cuisine. Test your "Fate" (elderflower, pineapple and prosecco) at the bar or pump up the "Heat" (tequila, Cointreau and chilied cucumbers), both from the snazzy cocktail list, before descending down one side of a dual staircase towards an impressive banquet table in the center of an expansive room. Gargantuan chandeliers cast a warm glow over the candelabra-topped family-style table. As spicy aromas waft over from your neighbor's nearby table, an eager staff is ready to cater to any dietary needs. For appetizers, indulge in the plump, crispy taro puff lollipops filled with pork and ginger. Dim sum choices include Shanghai soup dumplings with crab and pork or hoisin-glazed pork belly. Entrées range from ginger-glazed veal cheeks to whole Cantonese lobster to fried tofu and pineapple. The cauliflower stir-fry melts in your mouth almost as easily as the blatantly decadent desserts; and really, if it's called "Crying Chocolate" (molten cake, white chocolate ganache, coffee ice cream and caramel), is there anything left to say? Okay---the chocolate-peanut butter bombe. Need we say more?