Pf Chang's China Bistro

For my first try at this popular restaurant chain we ordered our dinner for take-out on a very busy Saturday evening. Calling the restaurant, you are given the option of either making a reservation (speaking to a host/hostess) [option 1] or speak ... more

For my first try at this popular restaurant chain we ordered our dinner for take-out on a very busy Saturday evening. Calling the restaurant, you are given the option of either making a reservation (speaking to a host/hostess) [option 1] or speaking with someone to order take-out [option 2]. That went smoothly: placed our order and were given an estimated time for our order to be ready (40 - 45 minutes). When I went to pick up our order (Chang's Vegetarian Lettuce Wrap (appetizer), Cantonese Roasted Duck (entree 1), Double Pan-Fried Noodles Combo (I just wanted the pork and shrimp) (entree 2), and for dessert the Banana Spring Rolls. <br> At the take-out counter I waited for about 10 seconds before a waiter asked if I had been helped. I replied "no" and he came over immediately, told him I had an order, he asked my name, and retrieved our order (it was ready as promised). He went through the items in the bag and pointed out what they were then I made payment. Very organized and efficient. <br> Made it home with no spills or leaking containers. The entree containers were actually very sturdy and relatively attractive - hard black plastic bottome with a clear lid. We had the lettuce wraps first. The lettuce was fresh, good size, crisp, and washed. The filling was pretty good (tofu) and the sauce was very good. <br> Next we had the entrees. The portion of duck was small but delicious and savory. It was also sliced! (impressive). Presentation was also clean and orderly. Now for the Double Pan-Fried Noodles. There was a lot here - enough for three meals! It was very good and tasty - appetizing. It didn't take me long, though, to notice that there was only pork in the meal - no shrimp. Ahhh... sad. I called and explained what had happened and the waitress that answered the phone said that she would get a manager. It took about 15 seconds for a manager to get to the phone, introduce himself (Drew), and apologize for the mistake. He offered me a free entree the next time I either came in or ordered take-out. Wow... That was quickly resolved and very much appreciated. <br> Next came the dessert (Banana Spring Rolls). Opened it and my wife took a bite and she gave me a weird look. "What's wrong?" "I don't think they gave us the right ones." Oh, no... (They had sent us the Harvest Spring Rolls (an appetizer). Called back and the waitress said she'd get the manager. I told her that that wasn't necessary but that I'd like to come pick up the dessert if that was possible and she said yes, that it would be ready (and she apologized). <br> Soooo, got there, gave them my name and a waiter asked if we'd also I'd like ice cream with that. I said, "Sure! Why not?". The manager, personally, brought it over and thanked me for my business. Got home, ice cream hadn't melted, and the dessert was still warm. Opened up the ice cream expecting vanilla (it was white) and could smell coconut. Now I don't like coconut but my wife loves it so new she'd be ecstatic. She loved it! She wants to know where she can just buy some! It looked like it had some pineapple in it as well. <br> Ok, back to the Banana Spring Rolls. In that container were the rolls, blueberries, sliced strawberries, and fresh ripe raspberries. Perfect. The fruit was absolutely perfect. The raspberries reminded me of my gramma's garden and the rolls also reminded me of something from my younger years. I thought that the banana taste may be overpowering but was not - best dessert I've had in a while! <br> I had heard of a bad review of this restaurant from a reviewer in the Des Moines Register - he gave this two stars shortly after the restaurant's opening. I would have to disagree with that assessment and give P.F.'s the benefit of the doubt. <br> I would highly recommend this restaurant - a "China Bistro" (so not your chinese buffet-type of restaurant). You can check out their menu on their website at http://www.pfchangs.com/. I hope that you enjoy their fair as much as we did! less