Red Pearl Kitchen
Huntington Beach, CA 92648-5158
Phone: (714) 969-0224
- Price:
- $$$
- Cross Street:
- Main Street
- Hours:
- Daily 5:30pm-10pm
Editorial Review for Red Pearl Kitchen – by Jennifer Schwartz
The Scene
A block from bikini shop- and pub-lined Main Street sits this stylish eatery. Elements of classic Chinese decor, like ornate dragon statues, fuse with post-industrial touches such as exposed pipes and modernized red lanterns. A high-definition TV dominates the back wall, flickering with muted Godzilla flicks and kung fu classics. The small space is usually packed with lively parties, so service can be harried and forgetful.
The Food
Executive chef Binh Truong takes inspiration from all over Asia, especially Japan, China, Thailand and Vietnam. Whatever their origin, most dishes pack a fiery punch, like the slow-burning coriander-spiced shrimp satay. Delicate Vietnamese spring rolls with cilantro-infused dipping sauce make a pleasant start. However, smoked albacore tataki is a bland companion to the sweet cucumber-and-radish salad. Best bet for meat eaters is the beef filet with thick rice noodles, blanketed with a hearty black-bean sauce.
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
What to DrinkAs the menu confirms, wine does go with Asian food, and Red Pearl offers an extensive selection, including cold sake.
When to GoThere are no reservations; to ensure quick seating, arrive by 5:30pm opening or be prepared for a long wait.
User Reviews for Red Pearl Kitchen
11/19/2006 Posted by aquawarlock
After hearing rave reviews for their Hollywood branch (which often gets booked to the max) I decided to take a chance with the less-crowded Huntington Beach branch. Wow... (and not in a good way) -- the cocktails were weird-tasting, and while the dishes are OK, they're not that remarkable, small on portions, and really stuff I could've gotten for MUCH cheaper in real Asian restaurants. We got a Salmon in Red Curry (Daily Special) and Shaking Kobe beef, neither were really Pan-Asian/Fusion . . . just Asian-styled foods with a heftier price tag. Would not go again.
Pros: close to the beach
Cons: very overpriced, just OK food
10/26/2006 Posted by hbmom
My family and I can't get enough of this incredible food! A previous reviewer discourages bringing children - but all I know is my teenagers love this food and it's very friendly servers. The menu has changed since this original review here. We find the portions are perfect not "small plate". My son loves the calamari appetizer and the shrimp dumplings, I love the cashew chicken, my daughter loves all of the noodle dishes and my husband is in reverie with just about anything they serve. This is definitely a busy happening place, but we usually have no problem being seated - maybe because we eat before things really get hopping in HB. Great place to bring visitors to HB.
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