Inside, this Teaism was quite different than the ones I frequent downtown. With a wall made of wood and bamboo and another wall painted red, this place had a lot of character. I also appreciated that there was no koi pond keeping the large fish in captivity like they do downtown.
The menu is also different than the menu downtown. I ordered the bento box thinking it would be the same, but it was totally different. This bento box had kabocha squash and adzuki bean croquettes that were absolutely delicious. These paired with their awesome brown rice seasoned with sesame seeds was great. The cold sesame spinach, however, was lackluster as were the soy roasted onions.
I washed it all down with the lovely Ginger Limeade.
For dessert, I had a sesame-covered mochi, which was pretty good, but not spectacular. I guess I'm just not a huge fan of mochi.
I came back a few weeks later to order the Lemon Maple Grilled Organic Tempeh Burger thinking this would be better. Eh, it was okay. There were two layers of grilled tempeh with a portobello mushroom on a whole grain foccaccia bread. There were no condiments whatsoever. When I asked about that they said that the mushroom produces so much moisture and flavor that it really isn't needed, but they gave me a cup of Vegenaise anyway. I thought the sandwich was way too big and that the Vegenaise definitely helped, but it was still missing something and I didn't like the bread much at all. The salad that accompanied it was doused in way too much dressing as well.
My friend ordered the Kelp Noodles with Spicy Almond Butter and thought they were quite good. I didn't taste them so I can't say one way or the other.
Overall, I'm disappointed with this location. I think the menu and food downtown is much better.
Teaism
682 N. St. Asaph Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 684-7777
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