If you haven't heard about the "crazy dumplings" at a new local restaurant, you soon will. Foodies have been abuzz lately about a new eatery called the Fanhouse, located at the intersection of Floyd and Robinson.
Fanhouse is one of Zhao's many forays in the entertainment business.
Owner Sunny Zhao and his team have created a comfortable, casual atmosphere with a contemporary Asian feel.
On the dinner menu are appetizers like the Asian Beef Kabobs and the beautifully arranged (and tasty) Vegetable Spring Rolls. Entrees range from Roasted Duck (with Mandarin pancakes!) to the Seafood Pasta. Then there are those much-touted crazy dumplings based on a secret (naturally) family recipe.
The building has been totally redone from its days as Verbena, and inside there's a large bar with a beautiful painting dominating the back wall. The black and red color scheme ties in the decor and leads to another space upstairs.
Entrepreneur Sunny Zhao has big dreams for the restaurant. "I want this to be a new type of place where everyone feels welcome." To that end, he even invited residents in the immediate vicinity to the opening, complete with free food and drinks for his new neighbors.
In addition to his role as restaurateur, Zhao is also an accomplished musician and director. He has done many groundbreaking commercials and short films, and if you ask nicely he might show you a couple of them on his iPhone. The always ambitious Zhao also has a feature film in the works.
With plans for an outdoor dining area and longer operating hours, Zhao is well on his way to providing a viable restaurant "in a new way." And of course don't forget those crazy dumplings.
