mandala tearoom

Menu a hit-or-miss. Tonight was the second time I dined here. First time was for lunch with a coworker. We shared two great appetizers: the Almond teriyaki lettuce wraps and what was basically their vegan nachos. Both are recommendable! Love the adzuki beans, guacamole, and vegan sour cream. We finished with the gingerbread cake topped with a pear compote (we had the cake warmed in the oven). For tonight's dinner, I had the much touted Curry vermicelli salad with grilled tempeh. I found the sauce to be very watery, bland, and not spicy enough, but then again, I do love authentic Thai food (which is known for its spicy curry dishes). The grilled tempeh saved the dish, which I would otherwise not have touched. Two other companions found the dish spicy enough, but one thought it lacked flavor. My poor selection made me wish I had gone for the tea crumpets, which a neighbor had ordered (it's the only thing she orders when she goes there). She graciously offered me a hummus-topped crumpet. It was delish! My server doctored my dissatisfaction with a complimentary dessert: I chose a heavenly warm apple crisp topped with soy ice cream. I will have to try the rest of the tea crumpets and the ziti al forno.

One person in our group of 15 never received his sandwich, a mistake corrected by the manager with a complimentary meal the next time he visits. Poor guy had to wait 45 minutes or more to be told he would not get his sandwich, so it was only fair that his future meal be complimentary.

The atmosphere is warm and inviting. Love the mandala watercolor artwork displays (which are for sale) and the wooden screen/divider (the latter reminds me of my home country... I do miss having ornately-carved wooden furniture!). The apothecary next door carries a few organic brands of cosmetics and toiletries, including a line of Garden Territory products (from the valley's very own Farm at South Mountain!). A cozy place to while away a few minutes before having a meal.  View Less … View More