Located on a wide stretch of Lincoln Avenue north of Bryn Mawr, Cafe Orange feels as secluded outside as it does within. Behind the blacked-out door and heavily curtained windows lies another world—the clubby atmosphere and Asian pop music is a sharp contrast to the Walgreen's next door. An enormous, high-ceilinged room, with tables, couches and booths makes up the bulk of the space, while another, slightly smaller (but still very big) room with plenty of space for dancing hides around the corner. A sizeable, well-stocked bar and an expansive TV projector screen decorate the walls.
The concept is a combination of pan-Asian restaurant and club, so arrive early if you're looking for a music-free dining experience. Korean and Japanese items such as barbecued short ribs and the traditional bibimbop (a rice and vegetable dish) come in portions that very well may frighten you with their immensity; dishes like steamed dumplings and fried calamari are perfect for sharing. The bar offers plenty of drinks to accompany both drinking and dancing, so when dinner ends around 10 p.m., hang on to your glass.
Average cost: $10-$20
Centerstage Reviewer: Mac McCormick