I generally really approve of Asian places where actual Asians are eating in large groups. It tends to mean that not only is there the usual Americanized cuisine but there are more authentic options available as well. Now the one thing I had to keep in mind while eating here was not to expect amazing out of this world service because typically your waitress is filling in for all jobs: Hostess, Busboy, Delivery Order Taker, Dishwasher and Cashier. I'm not unreasonable and knowing this makes it a very wonderful place to eat.
Score (based on 5 stars):
Friendliness: ****
Cleanliness: ***
Tastiness: ****
Affordable: ****
Overall: ****
Friendliness:
Now you may not get your drink refilled the second it goes empty, but it will happen and when it does the waitresses are usually incredibly polite and apologetic. They're more than happy to help you if you need a box for left-overs (and you will), and will help fix any mistakes without a problem. There is sometimes a language barrier though, I don't know the country of origin of many of the waitresses but I found speaking clearly they understood me perfectly. That being said, don't be a jerk and speak like they're mentally handicapped, just speak clearly, you don't have to speak slowly.
Cleanliness:
It's not unclean... per say. It's just getting a bit run down. The booths have seen much love in their time and the seat cushions are a bit, flat and failing in many spots. I've eaten there a few times and gotten a 'sticky' table. I know it was wiped down, but maybe not as well as it should have been? (or maybe simply not with cleaner). I know, I'm picky but I lump a lot of atmosphere into cleanliness, and while my plates, silverware, and glasses are always clean, it means I can't be sloppy and drop anything on the table... or I can't in good faith eat it without fear of some crazy germ infestation. (I call my current one 'SUPER ANGRY COLD!')
Tastiness:
This is where sticking to the Japanese menu really pays off. I find their sushi great and tasty, though I can't attest (as if I could before) to any of their various spicy rolls, but I love their Tempura Shrimp Roll and just about all the others. (Sorry, never been a fan of fish eggs, maybe I was too spoiled by chicken eggs...) Their Teriyaki Chicken is damn good too and you get quite a bit so come hungry. I will say I'm less impressed with their Americanized options, like Sesame Chicken, it's kind of a mixed bag, sometimes it's really good and yummy and sometimes it's a game of 'find the meat' because there's barely any in your 'Sweet and Sour Pork' but loads of vegetables. And while I'm sure that's healthy for some, it's just not quite what I ordered. Sometimes too much of their fried things are overcooked. Their Crab Rangoons, however, are quite amazing. Now I'm to understand that everyone has their preference for their favorite Rangoon but I can tell you honestly that this place has mine. They've got a hint of sweet but taste mainly of creamy cheese and mystery crab, which is how I like mine.
Affordable:
It can really vary depending on how you like to eat (solo vs. family style) and what time you go. Lunch is the best time because you can get a whole meal for under 10 bucks with tip and that's when you can snag up a yummy bento box that usually comes with soup or salad, a small amount of sushi and a main dish. Now at dinner you can still eat well if you're willing to share, and the portions are huge so stop being selfish! You can still squeeze in a dinner for 2 for under 15 if you only get some drinks and an entree, not bad for two people. Now if you're like me and demand veggie tempura (I know, it has veggies in it, but it's fried and doesn't count) and you like to split an entree and maybe cram in some crab rangoons, you're probably looking at about 25 for the whole bill, again it's not bad because you're sharing. If you're lonely or incredibly hungry, then you might end up paying for more than you want but I suppose that's the price you pay for having a bottomless stomach with no friends. (Maybe you ate them?)
Overall:
You have to be willing to overlook some things to truly enjoy this gem. The service can be frustrating and slow at times, the Americanized options are hit or miss, and if you're eating alone, you have to REALLY come hungry. If you can look past all those things, Jade Sisters is an amazing place to dine, it's staff is friendly and helpful and if you're braver than I, I hear their authentic menu is amazing. I recommend trying lunch there when you get a chance and bringing a lot of people. At least if you have lots of company and it sucks, you can all complain together. :)
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