SYR - Orange Asian Cafe
We went on an adventure today wandering around for lunch and ended up walking by Orange Asian Cafe.
Location: 713 S Crouse Ave Unit 1, Syracuse, NY 13210
This spot is tucked around a corner near Syracuse University and we knew we were in for a good time when we walked in and the whole place was filled with international asian students and the staff was shouting out orders in Chinese. I did get the fake out of being asked a question in Chinese and had to take the L on that one and respond back in English. Sometimes, Americanization really takes you down a peg because I KNOW the service would be prime if I was smart enough to answer.
Regardless, this was still a good spot. The staff were quick in a busy restaurant kind of chaos that resonates with my soul and there’s a little QR code on each table that takes you to online ordering so you can just drop your order and they bring it right over. I’m not a huge fan of their usage of AI photos of the food. Very unsettling.
Today, I decided to order the Korean Style Noodle with Soy Bean Paste in the hopes that it would result in a jjajangmyeon and I lucked out on that one. I’ve never had true jjajangmyeon before, just instant versions, so you never know how true and authentic the real deal is. This place spot has pretty big portions so this order was easily two meals for me. It’s a thick black bean sauce with little bits of meat inside along with some beansprouts and spinach. I’m a fan. I’m already thinking about ordering it again. The noodles themselves were okay. It’s giving spaghetti which is fine but nothing special. All of the nuance is in the sauce so that’s what you’re here for and I’m about it.
Their menu is extensive. It’s a little overwhelming to look over but if there’s something you have in mind that you’re craving, there’s a great chance they have it which I love. It’s tricky finding places that serve food outside of the typical Asian American options which is not what I’m ever craving. I’m so glad our little group stumbled on this place. I’m definitely coming back.