#dinnerdash

I like the Dinnerdash concept – fresh, Asian food (mostly Chinese, some Japanese items) in smaller portions at a reasonable price. It suits the area (across from Pasadena City College). It’s also almost contactless, so that’s a plus.

The menu includes bowls (entrée plus steamed rice), cooked dishes (pork belly, mapo tofu, teriyaki chicken, kung pao chicken, orange chicken), appetizers, veggies, fried rice, noodles, congee, milkshakes, brewed tea, and desserts.

Place your order using the self-service kiosk and pay. They’ll call your name when your order is ready. It took under 10 minutes to receive my order. The tip options are 3%, 5% and 8%. No one ever asks for 3%.

Braised pork belly rice bowl ($6.99): This was enough for lunch – probably the size of a Yoshinoya or Flame Broiler bowl. The pork belly cubes were mostly tender except for one leaner piece. The steamed white rice was too wet. There was one piece of broccoli total and it tasted rotten. Also, there was way too much sauce. The sauce was too salty and too sweet, like a bad teriyaki sauce.

I wasn't sure if there would be seating but they do have a few tables and a counter where you can sit.

Shame…I’m afraid to try anything else.

2.5 out of 5 stars