Tigerland

Justin Hartung

Citysearch

The Scene
Diners waiting for a table at this sleek eatery can pass the time guessing what kind of fruit tree sits in the waiting area (Answer: kumquat). That kind of stylized exoticism permeates the entire space, nowhere more clearly than the walls--lined with alternately lit clear tubes that create a striped effect worthy of the restaurant's moniker--and the young, fashionable clientele.

The Food
Though the menu plays with flavors of the Far East, the resulting dishes favor Westernized palates. Spring rolls are resculpted into shapes resembling stuffed chicken wings, their mild flavor countered with a tangy dipping sauce, while rice rolls get packed with Vietnamese sausage and bacon. Entrees could benefit from more authentic flavor, especially considering the higher-than-average prices: Despite unusual accompaniments like organic Japanese sweet yams, the roast duck curry, Massaman short ribs and caramelized catfish barely rise above their timid spicing.