Cafe Zen   

438 E Belvedere Ave
Baltimore, MD 21212
410-532-0022
www.cafezen.com

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Cafe Zen takes seriously the harmonious convergence of tastes that make up a winning meal, striving for a balance that integrates ample portion sizes and a pleasing blend of meats and vegetables to produce a healthy serving. More often than not, this unassuming, unpretentious eatery just off busy York Road hits the mark. Everything on the typical Chinese menu also exists in Cafe Zen's world -- in large, tasty portions teeming with plenty of fresh ingredients, particularly the vegetable dishes. Asterisked menu items that warn of "spicy hot" seasonings can also be construed as an invitation to those who enjoy fiery tastes -- Kung Pao Tofu, anyone? By contrast, sauteed garlic spinach is a rich, sweet and surprisingly healthy indulgence. People-watching is half the fun at Cafe Zen -- there's plenty of fodder just from the contingent picking up carryout orders and the affordable storefront location draws students from nearby colleges and Senator theater moviegoers. Memo to the cinematic set: the restaurant is open until 11PM on Fridays and Saturdays, so you can watch your feature's final credits and still have time to catch a late bite of sushi.