Pei Wei an Asian Diner

If you live in or near Georgetown, Texas, and enjoy pan-Asian food you will be pleased to learn that a Pei Wei has recently opened for business in Round Rock. It is located on University Ave. behind the Mimi’s Café.

Interestingly, Pei Wei is owned by PFChang, a chain of larger pan Asian restaurants. Pei Wei has much more of a fast food style compared to the formal dining experience at PFChang. Other differences include PFChang having a more sophisticated menu and being more expensive.

Introduced to Pei Wei about ten years ago, by our son and daughter-in-law, my wife and I have eaten at their locations in Dallas and Austin, and have never been disappointed. We are delighted to have a Pei Wei close to our home.

A favorite starter of ours is their Chicken Lettuce Wrap. Consisting of warm diced chicken and water chestnuts in a slightly sweetened, savory sauce, that when spooned onto the crisp cold leaves of iceberg lettuce, makes a light, tasty appetizer.

Favorite entrees include Thai Dynamite, Mandarin Kung Pao, and Thai Coconut Curry. Each uniquely seasoned entrée is unlike any other dish. They also offer a selection of Rice & Noodle Bowls, and Pan Asian salads.

With most entrees after you make a selection from a relatively long list, you then decide on your protein - chicken, beef or shrimp. Vegetables, tofu or vegetables and tofu may be added. Nearly all are served with rice, white or fried. In my opinion the white rice is a good selection because it complements rather than competes.

While Pei Wei’s décor and lighting create a very warm and comfortable ambiance, the high noise level is unfortunate. We were recently there with friends and found it very difficult to have a conversation.

We look forward to going there often.