Indochine

Indochine Vietnamese Bistro is at 230 S. 1300 East, Salt Lake City; 801-582-0896. Hours are Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 9 p.m.

Ok folks, is it just us or has there been a sudden influx of Asia inspired restaurants popping up across this great state? So whats the dealy-o? well, we've come to understand that SLC loves their Asian inspired cuisine and here is our latest take on one of the new guys.

What we love:

The Location: Just a hop skip and a jump away from the U and nestled right in between Market Street and Aristo's, you can't ask for a more buzzing area to be in. If you're one of the cool kids, this dining alley is definitely where its at.

The Atmosphere: With a quirky mix of Chinese take out diner and classy upscale restaurant, you can feel at home if you are just coming from class, the gym, or beginning your week-end outing. Think casual comfortable with a twist.

The Food: Isn't this really all about the food? Yum. Yes Indochine has all your favorites. If you are used to La Cai Noodle house, then you will enjoy the delights of Indochine. Their menu has all the Vietnamese classics as well as your run of the mill favorites. (You know, pad Thai...crab and cream cheese won tons) If you want to warm your belly, give the steaming hot big bowls of soup a try. Word of caution, they have some signature flavors in the soup department. If you have a sensitive tummy, be wary of anything that says spicy.

The Alcohol Menu: Friends of this blob know that you can not go wrong with a good drink menu and luckily, they fit the bill. Liquor and beer and wine...oh my.

The Staff: Friendly and fast, can you beat that?

The Price: Did someone say affordable? It is indeed. You can get out of there without breaking the bank. Keep your eye out for their lunch specials.

The Patio: Actually, we're not sure we love it yet, given its the middle of tundra season, but we're sure we will. God bless the summer.

What could be better:

The Parking: We all know the area and know that its fault is the lack of parking, but buck up, put on your walking shoes and trot a couple of blocks.

The Take Home Situation: Granted, we are not at a 5 star dining arena, but there are certain things that you would like your server to do for you i.e. load up your to go boxes for you. Especially when those to go items are steaming hot bowls of soup.

Indochine...The Re-cap: Come on folks, give them a chance. The food is good and the space is pleasant. We as members of this great city cannot let this location live up to its "cursed" reputation.

Indochine at a glance:

Service: Fast, friendly and fun. Its all good.

Food: Yum...yum....yum.

Cash Flow: Easy peasy on the wallet. You could even take someone you didn't really like here and not feel like you were wasting your money.

Bathrooms: Clean and new. We likey a lot.