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From plate to palate, a mix of flavors

Columns Foodie Fare

June 29, 2014

Story By: Lindsey Appleton | Photos by: Nathalie Walker

Asian Mix is a hub of Chinese, Japanese and local flavors. Owner Daniel Leung and his assembly of experienced workers have cultivated the art of fine take-out food. Leung previously owned Panda Cuisine, and opened Asian Mix to provide quality food for the busy people of Honolulu.

“We wanted to cook the same food, but make it affordable,” says Leung, who has more than 20 years’ restaurant experience. “Not every one has time to dine-in. You can eat here or take it home for your family.”

Below Safeway on Beretania Street, Asian Mix has provided quick, authentic meals for two years. With ample parking, it’s the ideal location for quick meals and easy pick up. Asian Mix’s chef aptly combines local flavor with Asian flair in kamaaina favorite Barbecue Pork and Ginger Chicken on Rice ($8.95).

“We listen to local tastes,” says Leung. “If they (patrons) say it’s not right, we change it. Our policy is that if you don’t like it, you can change your order, no questions asked.”

On special this week is the highly-requested Meat Sauce Wun Tun Noodle ($7.95), a hefty plate of silky noodles topped with spicy meat sauce and house-made wun tun. The lengthy creation process limits it to a special entree patrons keep their eye out for.

Try Asian Mix’s Lamb with Fresh Leek ($10.50), which boasts zingy red pepper complemented by fresh, crisp leek and buttery lamb.

“It’s impossible to slice the lamb this thin with a knife,” explains Leung. “We have to freeze our lamb, allowing it to get hard, then we cut it with a meat slider. When you mix it up with the leek and the scallion, it’s about 60 percent lamb to 40 percent leek, so it’s not too heavy.”

With or without food as an accompaniment, try Asian Mix’s large variety of teas and drinks. The refreshing Honey Lime Juice Green Tea ($3.50), creamy Mango Smoothie ($4.75) made with real fruit and the smooth Milk Tea ($3.50) with Tapioca Pearls (additional 50 cents) are choice selections to quench your thirst.

On the Side

Asian Mix’s Tea Time and myriad drink options place them at the forefront of Honolulu’s tea culture.

“If you want something refreshing, get our flavored teas, such as Honey Lime Juice Green Tea or Strawberry Black Tea,” suggests owner Daniel Leung. “If you want something creamy, we have the best milk tea and smoothies. And, when we say mango or strawberry smoothie, we actually use real, fresh mango and strawberries.”

Brewing fresh tea every two-and-a-half hours, Asian Mix believes there is more to tea than simply adding water and pouring. To Leung and his experienced baristas, tea must be mathematical, accurate and proportionate.

“The most important thing for a tea station is the material you use and how you bleed your tea,” explains Leung.

Foodie Fare columnist Christina O’Connor is currently on vacation.

Asian Mix

1234 S. Beretania St.
521-1688
Daily, 10:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.

Honolulu, HI 96814

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