New front entrance located in Sarver

Located on Route 356 in a small shopping strip (next to National City Bank), my very first impression of Shanghai Tokyo was the great atmosphere. Most Chinese restaurants decorate the same way, but Shanghai Tokyo has used striking colors to create a delightful ambiance that creates a whole different feel. The table settings and furnishings round out the comfortable setting.

The next pleasant surprise was the extensive menu and low prices. There are six soup offerings. One I don’t always see was Corn and Egg Drop, which I ordered. Appetizers are plentiful with 16 choices, more than enough to satisfy any taste. I should mention that there are two offerings, one Chinese and one Sushi (Japanese). There are some excellent choices for the soup, salads and appetizers. The prices are very low compared to many other similar restaurants. The 34 Chinese luncheon offerings start at $5.25, including soup, rice and egg roll, with the highest priced dish at $6.25. Fast food restaurant meals cost as much, if not more, for much less in food.

There are 32 Chef’s Specialties, including a New York Sizzling Steak and Salmon Fillet which you rarely see at a Chinese restaurant. After having an egg roll which was excellent, I chose the Shrimp and Scallop combination that came in a tangy and spicy brown sauce. It was also excellent. Although the 140-seat dining room was full, the meal was served in a short time. Another plus is the excellent service we received. The young man who waited on us had recently moved here from China. His English was excellent and we enjoyed the short discussion we had.

Jason Weng, son of Owner Mei-Hsin Weng

On the Sushi side of the menu, there are extensive choices. Since I have only tasted a few Sushi items in the past and know little about this food, I can’t give you too much information. But, my eye did catch something I had not seen before – a Royal Boat. This couple had one on the table. A very large wooden sail boat, it comes with assorted Nigili, Sashimi and Rolls. Sashimi is considered a Japanese delicacy. It is made for two and served with soup and salad.

For health conscious diners, the Lean Cuisine will appeal to you with steamed low-sodium dishes. One I had not seen before is the Japanese Style Cold Noodles (97% fat free) that has Japanese buckwheat noodles served cold with cucumber, ham and scallions. If that is too far of a reach for you, Vegetable Delight, Chicken or Shrimp with vegetables and Tripe Delight (chicken, shrimp, and beef) are the more traditional dishes. Vegetarians can delight in eight different menu choices.

Shanghai Tokyo Chinese Restaurant & Sushi Bar is located at 612 South Pike Road (Route 356), Suite 103 & 104 in Sarver. You can contact them at 724-295-3988.