We have been planning to visit O Mandarin in Hartsdale for since its 2017 opening the restaurant has been receiving very positive reviews. We were very happy to dine here on a recent Saturday evening. Even though our reservation was for 8 pm the restaurant was full with patrons, and more were waiting at the bar.
The interior of the eatery is set in warm tones with both tables and elevated booths. There is generous use of wood and the chairs are carved wood inspired by Ming Dynasty design. The effect is soothing, comfortable and sets the mood for an evening of dining.
O Mandarin does not serve cocktails, but there is a list of beer, wine, and saki available from the bar. Our party of four decided to order and share different appetizers so that we may sample some of the many dishes from the menu. O Mandarin’s menu philosophy is to provide diners with fine authentic Mandarin cuisine using the freshest ingredients. The food includes an infusion of spices that gives each dish a unique flavor. There is plenty to choose from with beef, pork, chicken, shrimp and vegetarian options available.
We sampled such favorites as the Mandarin Glazed Short Rib which was sweet and tender. We also enjoyed the Cucumber Honey Shrimp, and unique dish of cooked shrimp laced with organic honey and covered in sesame seeds. Very delicious.
The Home Made Dumplings can be steamed or pan fried and these dough filled delights (shrimp or pork) were served in a ceramic rowboat with soy sauce on the side. Shrimp and Chicken Lettuce wraps came next. Prepared with scallion and onion and served with lettuce wraps, this is a nice light healthy dish that can be an appetizer or a main dish.
Dumplings
Our main dishes consisted of the hearty and delicious Beef Short Rib with two ribs served in a red wine reduction with ginger and anise. The meat was soft and tender and fell off the bone. The red wine and spiced reduction was the perfect complement to the beef.
Pineapple Fried Rice
Our other main was the Garlic Pepper Shrimp with bell peppers and leeks, and we also enjoyed the Pineapple Mixed Fried rice which was served in a hollowed out half pineapple. The fried rice was delicious and light and filled with beef, chicken and veggies. A really great dish. We were impressed with the variety of the menu, the presentation of the dishes, and the healthy way we felt at the end of the meal. The use of fresh spices instead of salt and soy sauce really sets O Mandarin apart.
Garlic Pepper Shrimp
We learned the owner is constantly bringing in guest chefs from China to infuse fresh ideas into the menu. With this kind of innovation, we look forward to returning again to O Mandarin.
O Mandarin
361 North Central Avenue Hartsdale NY
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