Fun, spicy pan-Asian cuisine stars at this sexy Randolph Street restaurant.
The Scene Like a surreal Asian circus: Glowing red stalactites hang from the ceiling, giant ferns loom over tables, and there's wrought iron everywhere--on railings, chairs, even the curvy windows. A trendy crowd piles up at the bar waiting for a table in the bi-level space, where a bright open kitchen buzzes and a funky staff delivers smart service.
The Food Spice freaks will love the adventurous pan-Asian menu, which boasts plenty of plates that turn up the heat in a delicious way. Seared ahi tuna gets things started with potent wasabi sauce; noodle salad kissed with spicy peanut sauce is ringed with cool fresh cucumber slices. More delicate palates can opt for pad thai or black tie sesame shrimp with pineapple relish. The most impressive plate is the huge (two pounds-plus), crisp Shanghai-style whole catfish, filleted at table by your server and enough for two people. For dessert, look into Chef Jackie Shen's specialty, a chocolate bag filled with white chocolate mousse.
High Marks ''If you're looking for ambiance this place is a must--and as the name implies, there are red lights everywhere.'' (Machiave11i, Citysearch user)
''If you have the cash, Red Light offers up fantastic food, attentive service and an unpretentious, inviting atmosphere.'' (jmprimus, Citysearch user)
''For a superb meal, order the Chef's tasting. You will literally get 10 courses of food, each of which are out of this world.'' (diane02, Citysearch user) Low Marks ''Everything is just a bit more expensive than it should be...and portion sizes are not consistent.'' (Diner44, Citysearch user)
''It was very expensive and the flavors were pretty bland and flat tasting.'' (prettyhot, Citysearch user)
''The service was short and a bit rude.'' (bdjk, Citysearch user)