Yichao Wang
The artistic director of CloPet Theatr can be seen performing with Jester'Z improv this December and January
What'd you eat for dinner last night? I ate at Hong Kong Gormet Buffet in Ahwatukee. Delicious though a bit pricey--but lots of yummy seafood, and great sushi as well!
Favorite food: Italian, usually--though nothing beats a really good steak!
Least favorite food: None
Favorite dessert: Cheesecake
Favorite local restaurant and meal to order there: Right now, I'm having a love affair/addiction to Oregano's--the one in Tempe just off of Mill. Their pastas are fantastic! Also, I really like Hsin Cafe, located right next to Valley Youth Theatre and ASU downtown's Taylor Place. It's Chinese food made by an actual Chinese family. It's small, but the food is good and surprisingly authentic, while also taking some American twists, and the atmosphere is clean, friendl, and modern. Within walking distance to lots of the theaters downtown as well as the Arizona Center, it's a nice little place tucked out of the way.
Favorite local bar and cocktail to order there: None; alas, I don't drink alcohol. For a favorite drink, nothing beats a tall, glass of orange juice--slushy with pulp and crushed ice. I like to get mine from Matt's Big Breakfast--which is my second fave place to eat.
Favorite thing to cook at home: Broccoli and beef with white rice. Because it's one of three things I know how to make. My cooking prowess barely extends beyond "cereal" and "toast"--but because of my Asian heritage (and an awesome mom) it's all delicious ethnic, authentic Chinese dishes.
Favorite memory involving food: Making dumplings with my family over the Christmas breaks. Three generations in the house, extended family, everyone talking, and making fun of the kids' lopsided dumplings. Lots of fun!
Recipe or food tip to share: Attention all starving college students: ramen noodles are more than just that cheap cardboard stuff you get from Costco! Real ramen noodles are quite delicious. But for the budget-and-time-starved, it takes very little effort to spice up even the cheap generic blocks of it that you buy in bulk. Some fresh vegetables or garnish, and if you're
feeling particularly fancy, stir-frying some chicken or beef adds about 5-10 minutes of prep time and 100 times the nutrition/deliciousness!
