Zen Asian Bistro. Yeah, it's in my neighborhood!

Years ago I lived in the small town of Murfreesboro, NC. Pop 3000. Not much to be had in Murfreesboro, but the one Chinese restaurant had the best orange chicken I ever had and no other place in any other town had lived up to it, until Wednesday.

Wednesday night, Bob and I tried Zen Asian Bistro located in the Bellgrade Shopping Center at Robious and Huguenot Roads. I am so glad we did.

We arrived to this small restaurant with a lovely atmosphere and decided to eat at the bar. After reviewing the menu featuring a variety of Asian cuisines, we started with a bowl of Wonton Soup ($3.50) and an order of ribs ($7). A large bowl (plenty for two) was served with the required fried noodles and had a rich broth and tender wontons filled with well seasoned pork. Perfect for a rainy night. The ribs were outstanding as well. They were meaty and tender with a BBQ sauce which was perfectly balanced between savory and sweet. I could easily get these as a meal.

For entrees, Bob ordered the combo lo-mein ($9.95) and I ordered the Orange Chicken ($12). Bob was pleased with his lo-mein but the star of the show was definitely the chicken. White meat, not too heavily breaded and cooked in sauce with the right amount of red pepper, orange, and sweetness, with a touch of soy sauce added it took me back to the little place in Murfreesboro. I had the leftovers for lunch yesterday and am happy to report that the chicken held up very well in the microwave and didn't become something weird.

For a quiet dinner out or great take out, I definitely recommend Zen Asian Bistro. ZEN - Home