Isn't it strange that the one sort of Asian cuisine that has a preponderance of chains is the Asian noodle bar? Maybe because Asian noodle fare is amongst the perfect fast food. Quick and easy hot food that's also fresh and mostly healthy. Unlike most chains, I really like the noodle chains, including Zao, with their steaming soups and heaping piles of noodley goodness. If I had a job and worked in Emeryville, this is where I'd eat for lunch two times a week.
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