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There's nothing like a home-cooked meal, but after a long, hard week great Chinese take out really hits the spot. I'm convinced hot & sour soup is a cure all elixir, especially when there's a chill in the air. This in mind, the conditions were right for a stop at my favorite Chinese restaurant this evening.
Red Pepper Restaurant in Goleta, CA is as close as it comes to a perfect Chinese spot. Truly. Tucked away in an unassuming strip mall, this place feels like your own little secret. Happily, it's not -- the place is always packed with a buzzing lunch crowd. The hot & sour soup tastes fresh. The vegetables actually crunch & the mushrooms still have body. Not at all like the greasy, salty, overcooked varieties peddled under the same name. The onion pancakes have a light flakey texture. Loads buttery eggplant paired with slivers of pork make a perfect dish. Top it off with a big hug and an "I love you" from the owner (yes, she hugs everyone that steps though the door -- so amazing!) and you've got one happy customer!
2 comments:
I first discovered the Hot Pepper with the author during Thanksgiving and found it amazingly welcoming and delicious. Don't discount the egg drop soup either. Althought not traditionally one of my favorites it was very delicate; the flavors well melded and had a freshness about it that made it seem as if it had been made just for me the moment I ordered.
But to top off the excellent cuisine was the staff! Everyone was warm and welcoming. A great sport at the Hot Pepper is to position yourself so you can see the door and watch the reaction to the "uptight, narrow minded hypocrites" (they're not really that bad I just couldn't resist quoting Lennon (John)) as they are bid farewell, with a hug and a softly lilted "I love you" from the owner. Actually on our first visit we were greeted upon being seated with a soft "I love you" as additional places were set at our table.
All and all one of the first places I'll visit on returning to SB. Both the food and the hospitality are a heart warming experience.
red pepper. ; )
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