Sampan

The Scene
From the logo to the menu fonts to the black ceiling and blond wood tables, a sense of style makes Sampan a cut above most mall restaurants. In fact, the place has expanded twice, with each room now offering a different type of seating. Couples may prefer the booths in the west room, away from the bustle of the high-tech kitchen, though the tall wooden chairs in the east room make it easy to lean in closer for serious conversation.

The Food
It's popular with good reason--the kitchen does a stellar job, despite the steady stream of call-in orders and deliveries. For appetizers, try tangerine chicken or vegetable pot stickers for a change of pace; the hot and sour soup is superior. Curries, barbecue duck and strawberry chicken offer other diversions, and everything arrives fresh from the wok.