Lawrence.com

Phillbert (anonymous) says...

We tried Encore about a month or so ago and have been back at least a half a dozen times already, not to mention recommending it to several friends.

The food is very, very good, with a great deal of variety and originality. The vegetarian menu is extensive, and the smoothies are a nice alternative if you're looking for something other than a soda or beer to drink. Plus the staff is friendly and everything is very affordable.

Bottom line is that we've found a new favorite restaurant.

February 12, 2008 at 4:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

yoohoossi (anonymous) says...

I have to admit that I was a bit skeptical of the place when it first opened, but once I tried its food, I have been impressed over and over again.

Finally, Lawrence has a decent (better than decent) Chinese restaurant. Most importantly the food is great, but considering the price, presentation, and service, it's a real treat.

You will see young international Asian students in droves (a very good sign for an Asian restaurant), something you won't find in other "Asian" restaurants in town (maybe Thai Siam excepted).

So far I've been impressed with Beef Chow Fun, Kung-Pao Chicken, Mongolian Beef, and Singapore Noodle. If you like soup, something that hits the spot, try Wonton Eggnoodle Soup.

March 1, 2008 at 6:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

fascinating_person (anonymous) says...

When we were seated in the large, open and brightly painted dining room with squares of fabric hanging on the walls and a cartoon Japenese girl printed on the menus, I suspected that Encore Cafe might be just another juice hangout with food as an afterthought (see also: Indo).

But all six of us were all pleasantly surprised with the quality of the food. There was a good selection of dishes for the vegetarians in the group, and everything seemed to be reasonably priced. Their well drinks were $3.50, if I recall, which isn't bad, and I believe all of their entrees were under $10. My spicy mango chicken was just $6.50 for the lunch size.

Definitely try the fried calamari appetizer if you're there - it's the best I've had anywhere! The breading is thick, crunchy, and not greasy. Perfect!

The only cons:
- they don't serve coffee in spite of having an extensive juice/tea/smoothie menu
- the large, open room is echo-y and not very intimate
- the "spicy" dishes that we ordered weren't all that spicy - this is JUST FINE with me, because I don't really care for spicy food, but I know some people might be disappointed.

Overall, we were pleased with our food and with the options on the menu. I know I'll be going back.

March 20, 2008 at 2:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jboehle (anonymous) says...

LOVED this place! I've been three times now and it's SO good.

June 30, 2008 at 3:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mezzanayne (anonymous) says...

I just ate there for the first time tonight and it was excellent. The food is unique, flavorful, and with great presentation and our server was extremely good. My only complaint would be the din of voices against the naked-walled dining areas which made conversation very difficult. For people who miss the cuisine and atmosphere of Indo, this place has many similar food offerings (bubble tea, kari...) but with a more sophisticated feel.

July 26, 2008 at 10:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )