First things first.... There is a sign that says, "watch your step" on the front door. That sign isn't just a suggestion. The entrance has a fairly steep ramp downward when you walk in. WATCH YOU STEP!!!
OK, I had never been here before, but have been wanting to try it after seeing facebook ads. Lyle is not a place most people would end up in unless they happened to drive through on Hwy 14 on the Washington side. This is a small town with windsurfing and a highway going for it and I'm not sure how much else. BUT... if you happen to be going through and looking for a place to eat with some small town charm, you probably couldn't pick a better place in Lyle or anywhere nearby.
The first thing you'll notice is an old lunch counter and some fixtures/appliances that probably were there since at least the 1950's and maybe even before WW2. Just guessing.
This place is NOT a fancy place, but it is FULL of small town charm. It has multiple eating areas, two pool tables in the back and straddles American and Chinese decor in a most delightful way. A TV plays calming instrumental, meditation-type music that I absolutely LOVED!
I was enchanted the moment I looked around. I already knew I was going to have a good and yet unique experience.
I ordered a variety of items, which I included pictures of. The fried shrimp were excellent, the crab rangoons a 10/10 and the BBQ Pork had a somewhat unusual, but familiar homemade taste that I loved. The egg roll was the larger PNW type that I generally hate, but the filling was so good, I ate it all out of the crust. It tasted more like Indian Samosa, which I love!
They had a variety of Asian food from Japanese Chicken Katsu, to Vietnamese Pho. There was quite a lot to explore on the menu.
The Hot & Sour Soup was fairly potent and not very hearty as H&S soups tend to go. The Egg Flower Soup was preferred, though nothing special. Still, I enjoyed the kick of a strong H&S vinegar.
The Pho was pretty darn good. It was totally legit and above average for Pho. For a small town like Lyle, it was definitely a 10/10. Even in a big city, it would have been considered good and probably above average.
The Beef & Broccoli was of above average quality and had good flavor and was a VERY large portion. It could easily have fed most families of four all by itself.
I wish I could have tried more menu items. Next time.
I would definitely go again, though unsure when I have cause to go just for that. I might if my family is looking for something a bit different.
The service was EXCELLENT! I really want to support what seems to be a mom & pop business. I only wish they had BBQ ribs. Then I would be back more often. read more