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Fusion, or combining the flavors from two or more different types of cuisine, is all the rage. Two of the restaurants below mix different Asian elements — but one goes a little further afield.
Crazy Bowls Asian Mexican Grill
Kingston
Asian and Mexican food may seem like an odd combination, but husband-and-wife team Jenny Yeung and Ben Dong make it a reality at their new restaurant in Kingston. The couple, who grew up around the restaurant industry (their parents were restaurant owners), decided their unique concept would represent a true fusion. “Fusion means taking two different items and combining them into one — creating a brand-new dish,” Yeung explains. This fusion is seen in their bowlz, which are customized dishes with either rice or noodles, a bevy of vegetables, and 14 different meat choices. Another fusion item is the lotus bun, which resembles a taco and incorporates a Chinese-style bun topped with your choice of meat. Fan favorites include the spicy and tangy flaming wontons and bubble tea, which is made from real tea leaves. Despite their extensive menu, prices at Crazy Bowlz are reasonable, with all dishes less than $10. “We initially wanted the restaurant to be a fine dining bistro,” says Yeung, “but while we were renovating we were penny-pinching and eating from dollar menus, which was not healthy. I wanted to give people something different: something healthy, fast, and reasonably priced.” 845-382-6955; crazybowlz.net
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Asia Restaurant
Stone Ridge
Diners can sample the foods of three Asian cultures — Chinese, Thai, and Japanese — at this restaurant. The menu features Chinese take-out favorites, like chicken with broccoli; Japanese sushi rolls and platters; and traditional Thai dishes like pad thai and crispy red snapper filet with spicy Thai sweet and sour chili sauce. Also featuring a full bar, lunch specials, and a take-out menu, Asia Restaurant is a one-stop shop for various Asian foods in Ulster County. EntreÌes $9.95-$17.95. 845-687-9800; asiastoneridge.com
Toro Restaurant
Carmel
Toro serves Japanese and Chinese cuisine, as well as some Thai favorites like coconut curry. The four-page menu is packed with all your favorites from Japan (sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, tempura, and bento boxes for lunch and dinner) as well as classic Chinese dishes — everything from kung pao chicken to Peking duck. On a diet? There’s even a Weight Watchers menu. EntreÌes $7-$20. 845-228-1700; torocarmel.com
