Betelnut, located in the Cow Hollow neighborhoodof San Francisco, purports to serve food one might find in the streets of Asia. While there might be some familiar dish names on the menu (samosas, satay, dumplings) Betelnut pulls them off with a kind of finesse and polish I somehow doubt the average street cart matches.
Betelnut has plenty of food for vegans, including Tofu Cakes, Happy Buddha (i.e.vegetarian) Dumplings, Empire Fire Noodles and several veggie side dishes. It was quite a meal. Not only were there plenty of choices, but the options were each flavorful and interesting. No Pasta Marinara or Steamed Vegetables for vegans here at Betelnut!
I also appreciated the waiter's attentiveness and knowledge of the menu. He was absolutely accommodating to my requirements, while not making a big deal out of it or ignoring the rest of the party. The perfect combination.
I must share a word about the ambiance. Sure, it's the typical red and black found in many Asian restaurants, but applied with a subtle and sophisticated touch. Once ensconced in a deep, comfortable booth at Betelnut with a glass of wine and hot, fiery food, you feel a bit like you've cried out "Betelnut, take me away!" And it has.
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