Saturday, July 2, 2011

When One Door Closes, Another One Opens: B*Star

(UPDATE: My pictures were pretty crappy, so I linked a few I found from flickr.)

Only a few blocks away from Burma Superstar...

This week, I got together with a few fellow fat kids for dinner in the Inner Richmond.  My (future) roomie, A, and I were out hunting for apartments and decided to call a few other friends to join us for dinner in the area.  We decided to try Burma Superstar, which is supposed to be excellent.  However, I don't think we were the only person to hear that it is good.  The place was backed and a sizable crowd was milling outside.  The hostess confirmed our fears- we would have to wait at least an hour.  Seeing disappointment wash over our faces, she suggested that we try their sister restaurant, B*Star, which was just a few blocks down the street.  She called ahead to let them know we were coming.  Once we arrived, the host was waiting for us and walked us immediately to our table.

B*Star is an Asian Fusion restaurant.  They have a few of the signature dishes from Burma Superstar, including the Tea Leaf Salad.  

First up, yummy cocktails and appetizers. 
Orange Basil Soju Mojito, Chimay and Mango Mint Soju Mojito.  I had the mango mojito- so tasty! Would go back for this cocktail by itself.  


ceviche at B Star

We shared the Spicy Tuna Cerviche as an appetizer- pepper crusted tuna tataki with jalapeƱo, avocado and wakame.  Gobbled it down.  One of the waiters tried to take the plate when we were done, but A almost bit his hand off.  Slurped up the remnants of wakame and avocado that were left before handing it over.  

We also shared the Tea Leaf Salad.

Romaine lettuce ginger, garlic, peanuts, sunflower and sesame seeds, tomato and fermented tea leaves.  Not gonna lie, the fermented tea leaves made me pause.  But mixed together, it was so good.  Crunchy, crisp, spicy, tangy. We split it, but I could have eaten buckets of this dish.  So good. A must try if you go.

Check out a better picture here.

We shared two entrees family style- first up, Basil Chili Tofu.

Pressed tofu, eggplant, red bell peppers, asparagus, red onions over coconut rice. Not the biggest tofu fan, but this was great.  Great combination of flavors.  Had a bit of a kick, but not overwhelming.  The coconut rice balanced it out perfectly.  Here's a better picture.

We also shared Grilled Trout with Mango and Citrus Salad.  
mango salad & grilled trout | b star bar

Grilled trout, tomatoes, papaya, mango, jalapenos and coconut rice.  Had crunchy little things in the rice, don't know what they were called.  All around great meal.  Spicy and sweet, crispy and soft. My only complaint is that the portion size was a bit skimpy for the price ($15). 

Finally, we finished off our meal with banana coconut egg rolls.  Served with chocolate chips and vanilla ice cream.  This dish didn't last long enough for me to take a picture.  So flippin' good.  

For four people, drinks, appetizers, dinner, and dessert totaled $100 before tip.  A good investment for good food and a good time with great friends.  The place was packed by the time we left (9pm), so I would recommend reservations if you are arriving after 7:30p and have a big party.  

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