By Courtney Probert and Bryce Buyakie
Trying something new can be a transformative experience. Despite taste preferences, sometimes the right recipe, the right flavor profile and the right atmosphere allow us to expand our list of favorites.
Lessons like this aren’t anything new for HoChang “CJ” Jang and Prakash “PK” Karamchandani, owners of Balance Grille. Since opening their first restaurant in February 2010, they’ve adjusted stubborn attitudes and coaxed fast-food feasters to enjoy inventive, health-conscious preparations of proteins and veggies.
To test Balance’s ability to persuade the uninitiated to try unfamiliar foods, we sent two interns, Courtney Probert and Bryce Buyakie to the restaurant to investigate.
Checks and balances
Bryce Buyakie and Sweet Potato Salad: My earliest memory of sweet potatoes were the canned and overly-sweet starch as an 8-year-old at summer camp. Balance’s Sweet Potato Salad – fresh not canned— is served cold with a sweet and salty soy-based glaze. I enjoyed it and savored every bite.
Courtney Probert and Citrus Brussels sprouts: When I think of brussel sprouts, I imagine I’m at Grandma’s house, plugging my nose to avoid the less than appealing perfume of the green lumps in front of me. Unlike the bland, familiar taste from my childhood, the Citrus Brussels were perfectly wok-seared with an orange glaze, making their addictive flavor a favorite.
Bryce and BangBang Nachos: From the cheesy goodness covering salty corn chips to the spicy hot sauce, nachos are perhaps my favorite comfort food. So, when I ordered The BangBang Nachos, I was surprised to see flour chips buried under tomato, onion, cilantro, potatoes and chickpeas garnished with a spicy BangBang and Yogurt sauce. Delicious and different, these guiltless nachos retain that wonderful spice and flavor I so enjoy.
Taco, belle of the fall
For true foodies, the new fall menu offers updates to Balance’s favored taco menu. Fusing Asian flavors with a taco format wrapped in a blue corn shell, the tasty tacos provide a different presentation platform for diverse flavors. The three new additions are typical Balance fare — bursting with intense flavors and alluring aromas.
The Wasabi Aioli Taco blends a subtle taste of wasabi with fresh daikon greens and a protein – chicken breast, chicken thigh, premium steak and firm tofu- of your choice. The Citrus Ginger Taco, a farm fresh taste of vegetables, like raw carrots and red onion, complemented by the crunch of cashew pieces topped with a ginger sauce which provides a flavor kick.
Our favorite taco option is the Filipino Adobo, an exceptional mix of red cabbage, potato crisps, roasted garlic, and cilantro which come together with hearty texture. If you like heat, the sriracha drizzle is optional, but we endorse the sauce’s ability to provide a balance between spicy and salty.
Final bite
Balance delivers for both experienced foodies and curious eaters with new takes on classic favorites. With plenty of options available they might surprise you by converting ‘formerly dislikes’ into craved tastes with thoughtful preparation. Tempt your tastebuds with Balance’s classic favorites and the new additions to the fall menu. You won’t leave disappointed— but maybe a little enlightened.
Balance Pan-Asian Grille currently has three restaurants
and one bubble tea location. Hours vary.
To see the full menu or order online, visit balancegrille.com
Sylvania: 5860 W. Central Ave. | 419-578-7777
Maumee: 514 The Boulevard | 419-893-9999
Perryburg: 26520 N. Dixie Hwy. | 419-874-7777
BubbleTEA location: 1440 Secor Rd.
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