As a nice break from a busy and stressful week, Ellie and I ventured down to Main Street to sample the food from the recently opened Anoho, which is short for “Asian Noodle House.” The warm ambiance and friendly waitstaff make for an inviting atmosphere on those days when “pastabilities” just can’t quite satisfy your noodle cravings.

The menu offers an array of options from the classic pan-Asian cuisine. Starters include miso, wonton, and hot-and-sour soup, as well as edamame, chicken satay, and scallion pancakes. Ellie and I considered our options for all of a few seconds before answering in unison “fried” to our choice between steamed vs. fried vegetable dumplings (six for $4.50). Our palates were satisfied by the results, and we were able to eat our fill and prepare for the entrees to come.

While nibbling on the bits of veggie matter still clinging to our chopsticks, we perused the menu and made our main course selections. I opted for an American comfort food favorite: General Tso’s Tofu ($8.50) while Ellie decided to stick to Anoho’s specialty and chose a noodle dish. Noodle entrees at Anoho are served in either soups or entrees, such as Pad Thai, Sezchuan, Tokyo, or Green Curry, and come in a variety of forms such as Lo Mein, Rice, Cantonese, Udon, or Chow Fun. Depending on your budget, chicken, beef, pork, and shrimp are also available inclusions to each entrée.

Ellie ultimately decided on Cantonese noodles with Singapore Curry and chicken ($7.50). The plates arrived heaped with a flavorful medley, perfect for the hungry college student on a tight budget. Though initially daunting, Ellie and I are able to proudly report that our plates were returned clean to the kitchen.

The General Tso’s Tofu, served with a side of brown rice, was sweet, tangy, and very flavorful. Although the spicy icon on the menu was somewhat misleading, I think this has more to do with Anoho’s location in New England than its shaky commitment to Asian cuisine. On the other hand, Ellie’s meal offered a nice balance of noodles and chicken with a subtle, lasting flavor.

Although, as stated previously, Anoho seems to tailor its level of spiciness to the American  pallet, the food was still flavorful and satisfying. For a little over $10 a piece for a full meal, Ellie and I felt that we received exactly what was expected.

All in all, Ellie and I would recommend Anoho to the Wesleyan community. Although not particularly authentic and perhaps not as spicy as anything you’d get in other places, it is quick, easy, tasty, and an economically sound alternative to many other Middletown dining establishments. So brave the bad weather and stroll into town or go onto their website: www.anoho.com, for either delivery or pick-up and give Anoho a chance to become one of your new favorite dining destinations.

Peace, love, and noodles!

Ellie and Rachel