Inside: Wang's in the desert

Wang's in the Desert offers a wide range of Asian cuisine.

When it comes to dining out, I know most of us fall into the pattern of not straying too far from home. A restaurant has to be truly exceptional to make us drive across town. Wang's in the Desert is worth it.

If you think Wang's is just a typical Chinese restaurant, you are mistaken.

As you enter, you are immediately greeted by a soothing bubbling stream and gentle waterfall. If you've had a tough day, this is definitely where you can relax and unwind.

Wang's is owned by Joel Herzer and Alford Harrison, who have been in the restaurant business for close to 25 years.

Their attention to detail is impeccable, and their service is some of the best I have had anywhere.

The dining area is surrounded by beautiful Asian sculptures and art pieces. The tables, covered in white linen cloths, are spaced far enough apart so you and your guests can enjoy a great conversation. You will definitely want to bring your friends here so you can order more amazing dishes and have enough to take home for the next day.

We started with the coconut shrimp ($10) dipped in sweet coconut, deep fried to a golden brown and served with a sweet Asian aioli sauce. We also selected the pan fried seafood pot stickers, made with shrimp, scallops, water chestnuts and scallions and served with a fabulous ginger soy dipping sauce ($10). If you're into spicy, be sure to try the jalapeno calamari ($9) seasoned with garlic, jalapenos, scallions and lemon juice.

The list of entrees on the menu may sound familiar, but Wang's makes them unique. The walnut shrimp ($19.50) is battered, quick fried and tossed in a creamy mayonnaise honey mustard sauce with candied walnuts.

Be sure to order the kung pao chicken with roasted peanuts, sweet peppers, dried chilies and tossed with a caramelized soy sauce ($14.50).

For beef eaters, let me recommend the tangerine beef ($20), thinly sliced and accented with fresh tangerine peels, a touch of garlic and ginger and served with a mildly spicy honey sauce. The sweetness of the sauce complements the beef nicely.

Normally I don't order dessert at Chinese restaurants because I don't want to lose the incredible taste of the food. However, when I spotted banana wontons ($6) on the menu, I broke with tradition. Lightly fried and coated with a sprinkling of cinnamon and sugar, they were accompanied by a mild vanilla sauce. Absolutely fantastic.

Bottom Line: If you're looking for a special place to hold a great party, be sure to keep Wang's on your list. Check out the eatery's Web site for suggestions and book one of their VIP areas. But don't wait too long.

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