Sticky Rice in Fell's Point

It’s been a while since I posted my last review of one of Charm City’s fine eateries and I had a difficult time selecting a location.  Luckily, my better half was on top of the situation and helped narrow down my indecisiveness with suggesting Sticky Rice in Fell’s Point.

I arrived around 5pm and expected all alcohol serving establishments be packed for playoff mania.  However, there were a few groups of patrons scattered about the dining area, but I surprised at the relative emptiness of the place.  I sat myself at the bar for a good view of the game and browsed the menu.  Thanks to Ms. Classy’s research, I already had a good idea of what I was going to order, but I browsed nonetheless in case something else looked more appetizing.

I really liked the mood of the place.  It was very dark (bring a miner’s headlamp to help read the menu) which explains the grainy pictures, and the music was set at the perfect volume.  I could chat without shouting, listen without cupping my hand behind my ear and jutting it toward the speaker, and still enjoy the full sound of the music.  The bar and drink preparation area was beautiful.  Carved wood and other decorations (BIG GONG!) reminded me that this was an Asian food establishment.

I’ve said several times before how you should forgo the drink to save a few bucks.  Well, I need to level with you: I’m a hypocrite.  One of the tantalizing tap levers displayed the Strongbow logo which melted my penny pinching resolve.  It’s a good thing I ordered one, too.  With a drink in hand and a game on the television, I passed the surprisingly long wait time (considering how empty the place was) for my food.

Speaking of food (like the hokey pokey, this is what it’s all about, isn’t it?), I ordered the small Coconut Shrimp for $9.  I asked the friendly server which noodles would best fit and she suggested the thick udon noodles.  The shrimp was cooked perfectly and the server brought an extra plate for me to discard the tails.  I like crushed peanuts, and the coconut pepper sauce mixed everything together in a nice combination.  The portion was large enough for me to take some leftovers for Ms. Classy to enjoy. 

Too bad I was completely full.  There were plenty of interesting and creative creations coming from the sushi bar.  Their spicy tuna rolls have whole pieces of tuna instead of the more widespread minced tuna.  As I’ve quoted the historical Nathan Hale, “I regret I have but one stomach to give to my dinner.”  I left the establishment with a belly full of food and a head full of Strongbow buzz and contented with my experience.  It’s not often you find shrimp meals this good and filling for only $9.

-Mr. Cheap