RATING:


Bea’s Wok N’ Roll, 1402 Sycamore Road, is more than just an establishment for Vietnamese cuisine, it’s an experience.

Upon first glance, the outside of Bea’s doesn’t look like much. It’s a small cereal box-looking building with no flash or pizzazz, located in a quiet area right next to Jewel. I’ve passed by the building for years, not paying much attention to it.

Finally going in to dine, my preconceived notions were thrown in the rice maker. The atmosphere inside Bea’s is that of a big Sunday feast at grandma’s. The décor is filled with country apples and fall-themed table cloths, different from the usual Asian cuisine eatery.
Although it’s smallish, it’s remains cozy and quaint.

The woman they call Bea, although short in stature, is filled with tenacity and spunk unmatched. She was constantly running around making sure things were cooking, or answering the phones or making small-talk with the regulars. When I gave her my credit card, she tried to pronounce my Czech-sounding last name and called me “Sweetie” instead. You ought to be lucky if you get eye contact these days while out to eat.

It took about 15 minutes and $25 to order before finally receiving my take-out. First up was the sample plate which had 4 pot stickers, 2 crab rangoon, a beef lemongrass and a Vietnamese egg roll. For $8.70, this appetizer dish alone rivals any tired buffet in the area. There were spices and flavors in there that I never even knew existed.

For the main dish, I chose a combination noodle dish of beef, chicken, broccoli and a slew of undeterminable lettuce-resembling spears. Although it was pretty good, I found myself wanting to pour a whole jar of Teriyaki sauce on it to combat the unfortunate dryness. I don’t know if I’m just not accustomed to Vietnamese food yet, but I like my noodles juicier.

Also on the menu are some interesting choices like a catfish fillet and a jalapeno stuffed chicken. There’s pad thai, many spicy dishes and a special section with no carbohydrates. The real deal, though, seems to be the board with the specials listed right above where Bea stands.

Bea’s Wok N’ Roll has good food, but the full experience is going into that little building and feeling like you’re at home.

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