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Wednesday February 18, 2009 at 5:43 pm
It's Where East Meets West, Little Rock, That Is


It's just like its name, fantastic.  I truly have not had a bad food experience at "Fantastic China."  The more-than-a-decade-old Chinese eatery on Grant Street in the Heights has some of the most consistent-tasting food I've had.  And I am now a fan of one the restaurant's specialties - "Shan Don Shredded Beef."  It's a spicy concoction consisting of  beef, which is very tender, leeks and Chinese mushrooms in a brown sauce.   And, Kavion Wang has to be one the most people and customer-oriented  owners I've ever met.  She always greets you with a smile.  If you're having a tough day - her charming and engaging personality will get you back on track.  That my friend is the value-added to your restaurant experience.

I started going to Fantastic China before the renovation 5-years ago and the kitchen was cranking out fabulous dishes then... with its new more contemporary digs, the restaurant can satisfy the cravings of even more customers without loosing the same traditional and exceptional taste patrons have come to enjoy. 

As I found on a previous visit to a few other restaurants, the most fascinating aspect of  Fantastic China was found in the kitchen where there is an assembly line of accomplished chefs preparing some of the more than 100 items on the menu while also stirring up some special requests... aptly maneuvering over a stove piping out 600 degree temperatures.  It is quite the sight to behold.  That, coupled with the fact that the prices have remained reasonable over the years, always make it worth going back for second and third trips, even though the restaurant doesn't offer a buffet.  As Wang puts it, they pride themselves in freshness, taste and quality.

If you're a fan of ginger, get them to add it to one of your dishes where it's not part of the recipe, next time.  You might be pleasantly surprised.  For those who are minding their mid-section, Wang offers a steamed vegetable and chicken dish, topped with fresh lemon.  Their hot and sour soup is some of the best around and I'm a particular fan of their spring roles, which are light and crispy. 

Dessert offerings at Chinese restaurants usually aren't extensive and at Fantastic China, you get more of a slice of "Americana" - cheesecake.  But who goes to Chinese restaurants for dessert, right?  And that brings me to the next point, you can always have Fantastic China even when other eateries are closed on holidays.  If you can't get to them, they'll bring it to you, in many cases.  They do offer free limited delivery services with a minimum order of $13.00.   But, why not just get out of the office for a quick lunch special that includes an entree, rice, soup and an egg roll - under 7 bucks... or stop in for a dinner that won't leave your wallet or your stomach empty?

The restaurant also offers services for private parties and receptions. 

 Fantastic China's hours of operation are Monday - Thursday, 11 am - 2:30 pm and 5 pm - 9:30 pm; Friday - Saturday, 11 am - 2:30 and 5 pm - 10 pm.   Prices are inexpensive.  In my opinion, the restaurant provides a wonderful family atmosphere. 

They do have take-out.  For your convenience, the number is (501) 663-8999  Address:  1900 N. Grant, Little Rock

 Credit Cards Accepted

Website:  Not available at this time

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Comments on It's Where East Meets West, Little Rock, That Is
Benoswife
YaYa's salads! Buttermilk ranch dressing great Value location Alley Oops off Kanis and Bowman Happy hour at Bonefish $5 Wednesday and the new Bang Bang Tacos and the Fish and Chips are great! Cupcakes and other sweets at Brown Sugar in the Rivermarket is good stuff Hot Springs Brickhouse is good

Hi Benoswife:

Sorry about the late response - I posted your comments from your latest entry on the website as well. Thanks so much again for sharing your recommendations.

Pamela

Devita
After my boyfriend read your review on Fantastic China he suggested we check it out. It was was the best ! Everything from the atmosphere to the service and last but not least the food! It is a restaurant we plan on visiting again and again. Thanks Pam and keep up the good work!

Hi Devita:

Thanks for taking the time to share your experience at Fantastic China - I'm glad you enjoyed it. And I agree with you, it's well worth repeated visits. If you can stand a little "heat", next time try their Shan Don Shredded Beef or their Hunan Chicken with Ginger added. Let me know what you think. Appreciate your writing in.

Pamela

John Saunders
Pam, I missed the name of your pick today, the one about the great salads and wood fired pizza. Can you tell me the name of the restaurant on today's show?

Thanks. John Saunders

Hey John:

Thanks for your note. We visited Za Za's in the Heights off Kavanaugh. I plan to write more about the restaurant on the blog Thursday, so please check out the site. The actual story will be posted online under "Experience Little Rock" - it's on the KATV website, look under the "Marketplace" tab. Stay tuned for the posts.

Pamela

TRUDAT
Pam, If you have not tried YaYa's you must it is the bomb! the Polenta is awesome they have only been open about 4 weeks located out in the new shopping center off Chenal

TRUDAT:

Thanks for the recommendation - have actually tried YaYa's and was impressed with most of my selections. Tried the Polenta at your suggestion and will reserve my comments for my eventual "Pam's Picks" story. Hope you don't mind! :) Please keep the comments coming - I appreciate them.

Pamela

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