PF Chang’s China Bistro @ Irvine – Media Tasting

Founded in 1993, the first PF Chang opened at the Scottsdale Fashion Square  in Scottsdale, Arizona.  Today, the restaurant chain operates more than 200 restaurants worldwide.  Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the recently remodeled Irvine location is the first in the country to debut its refreshed look and new menu items.  Allen and I had the pleasure of trying it’s exciting new Chef’s Summer Cuisine Menu last weekend.

The new menu highlights light, fresh ingredients such as heirloom tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado, mango and pears – giving guests eight all-new seasonal creations and wine pairings inspired by the bright flavors of summer.

Peking Duck Summer Rolls (Duck salad with julienne green papaya, snow peas and carrots wrapped in rice paper, served with a mango jalapeno vinaigrette.  Suggested wine pairing: Coppo Barbera d’ Asti) – This was a good starter dish.  Although the sauce has jalapeno, don’t be scared, there is very little heat.

Korean BBQ Chicken Stir-Fry (Korean-style chicken stir-fry with red peppers, onions and green beans in a sweet, spicy red chili sauce topped with a refreshing summer kimchi slaw.  Suggested wine pairing: Boutari Moschofilero).  Our server warned us that the spiciness would build up but we thought it was very mild.  The chicken was very tender and the green beans snappy.  If you like a stronger flavor dish, this would be a good one to order.

Shrimp with Candied Walnuts (Tender shrimp tossed in a creamy sauce with candied walnuts and honeydew melon).  I think I enjoyed the honeydew melon more than the shrimp.  The candied walnuts lacked the crunchiness I expected.  The flavor as a whole was good.  I know this is a popular dish among patrons.

Coconut Curry Vegetables (Stir-fried vegetables, crispy silken tofu and peanuts in a mild curry powder and coconut milk sauce).  This was my favorite dish of the meal.  I enjoyed the tofu and the vegetables were very fresh.  I also thought the sauce was pretty good and wish there were more of it.  Usually for a curry dish, there is plenty of sauce and it goes well with rice.

I really appreciated they offered steam white rice as well as brown rice.  I personally love brown rice for the nuttier taste.

Allen ordered a beer to go with the meal.  I love this shot taken with the patio seating in the backdrop.  The fire pit kept the surrounding warm in a chilled night and added a romantic ambiance.  The service was attentive and friendly.  Allen and I had a lovely evening.

Special thanks to Emily Finley of Karwoski & Courage for hosting my media tasting and also generously offered a $50 gift card for one of my lucky readers.  To enter to win, follow the  instructions below and good luck!

• Like PF Chang’s FB Page
• Like WendyfulWorld FB Page
• Leave me a comment who you’d take with you if you won and what dish(s) you’d like to try
• Entry period ends on Sunday, 5/26/2013 at midnight (PST).  Winner will be notified on Monday, 5/27/2013

PF Chang’s China Bistro
61 Fortune Dr
Irvine, CA 92618
(949) 453-1211