P.F. Changs (a first visit)

mmm-yoso!!!, a blog about food.  Kirk is out and about and taking a short vacation.  Cathy is writing about a meal.  

Yep, this is another Gift Card post.  I don't regift and have friends who sincerely want The Mister and I to try some of their favorite places; we have never been to P.F. Changs and were in Mission Valley on a beautiful, clear day and I had the Gift Card in my pocket. IMG_0396The surreal Las Vegas casino-like giant horses out front of each location of this Asian themed, casual chain restaurant greet you.
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IMG_0396Along with a tastefully decorated interior. 
IMG_0396A pot of (caffeinated) ginger-peach tea was ordered ($3.75).  It's by Republic of Tea and very similar to the Plantation Peach tea I usually buy from the Charleston Tea Plantation (the only tea grown in America). I must have hot tea with Asian meals.
IMG_0396As we were being seated, we noticed that every table had this: the first choice at the top left of the menu (under "Street Fare").  So, we had to.  Lettuce Wraps (chicken or tofu; we chose chicken) $11.50.  A 'secret family recipe', 'signature dish', the do-it-yourself  slightly sweet, slightly spicy chopped melange of chicken, water chestnuts, green onion, crisp noodles and chilled iceberg lettuce with a bit more of the sauce was delicious.
IMG_0396Also from the 'Street Fare' section: Tempura Shrimp and Vegetables ($11.95).  Lightly battered plump, sweet shrimp, bell peppers spinach and carrots served with a Sriracha/sweet aioli.  This was also quite good.  
IMG_0396From the 'Lunch' section of the menu, we decided to share the Chiang Mai Noodle Bowl ($11.95).  Egg noodles and marinated chicken in a coconut curry broth, some crispy wonton strips with fresh grape tomatoes and flat leaf parsley.  Once all mixed, this was also a great mix of flavor and texture.  Quite satisfying.
IMG_0396We still have more than $50 left on the gift card.  It's good food and there is much more to try. 

P.F. Changs 7077 Friars Road San Diego 92108 website Open daily 11-11
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