Asian Outpost Review: Not Asian Fusion, More Like An "Alloy"

We've been closely monitoring the opening of Asian Outpost (1315 S. Wabash) and reading mostly positive reviews of the place on yelp (currently 4.5 stars on Yelp).  While we still haven't had a chance to go, one frequent contributor pens this reviews:

First off, this place isn't imitating anyone. To say it's fusion is too simple: this place is an alloy; something made stronger by the combination of two things. The place setting comes with a fork and chop sticks, and you're invited to use them as you please.

The exterior's simplicity belies a complex and yet subtle interior. Dark but not dingy, with amazing steam punk lighting, herbs growing in the foyer and a tucked away bar with only one silent television. Even on this cold night, the room exuded warmth and comfort.

Drinks are inexpensive for the area with a top shelf Manhattan going for $9. and a number of their unique cocktails are even less. My wife was especially impressed with the Toshi, a mixture of sake, cucumber, mint, lemon and club soda named after the family's dog.

For the main course, I had the aptly named-Chicken with Spicy Nutty Noodles. It was exactly that, with nicely burnt and crunchy peanuts and a bit more zing than you'd expect. My wife had the Asian spare ribs which were only slightly Asian, but were very popular.

They have a sushi menu too, but we didn't need to get that far to know that we'll be back. Prices are somewhere between Flo & Santos and Giocco, and we Sloopers are lucky to have another fantastic addition to an already vibrant block of eateries.

We've been eyeing the Spicy Nutty Noodles ever since we saw the menu and now are craving it even more.

(Hat tip:  JW!)