Far East

Ray Feller

Far East is one of those places that are easy to drive past. It’s not flashy or big or in a terribly noticeable location. But if you do happen to notice it, and you do happen to stop by, you will be proud to have discovered such a nice little treasure.Offering Japanese and Korean food, Far East has a fairly small but tasty menu. They offer sushi, maki rolls, tempura, various appetizers, several types of noodles and soups, and the Korean bul go-gi grill.

The building itself is partially a snazzy looking bar and partially the restaurant. The lighting is dim and each table has a terribly romantic little tea light, with Billie Holiday usually playing softly in the background. It is a quirky place, with the women’s bathroom sitting strangely in the center of the dining room and some very colorful decorations, but overall it is a lovely place to dine. Customers do not usually overwhelm the small room, so the wait staff always seems able to attend effectively, consistently, and happily. The quietness of the restaurant makes it a wonderful place to go and have a nice, long talk.

The food itself is delicious, with the traditional spices and flavors of Japanese and Korean cooking. Everything is served slightly too hot so that you have to smell it for a period of anticipation while it sits, looking tasty on your plate. While Far East is less popular and less extravagant than Koreana or Nakashima, the lack of showiness adds to the dining experience. There is a pleasant intimacy to Far East and its less commercial appearance. They have those icicle Christmas lights hanging outside and their sign doesn’t have a neon light, making it even less visible at night. Perhaps that makes discovering the delightful foods of Far East that much more satisfying.

Walking distance—NO
Delivery—NO
Alcohol—YES
Address—1330 S. Oneida