Edamame By Jim White Edamame is a delightful entry on the restaurant scene and features some of the best Vietnamese specialties we’ve tasted. Before we go any further, for those of you who don’t speak Japanese, edamame is the word for fresh soybeans. Yes, Edamame is served—as an appetizer with shaved salt ($4.50)—along with a host of other appealing fresh dishes. The menu is extensive. You’ll need to make several visits to get a thorough appreciation. A delicious assortment of spring rolls and egg rolls are available. We enjoyed Goi Cuon Ga—charcoal broiled chicken with vermicelli, lettuce and cilantro served with plum-peanut sauce ($3.95). Two noodle dishes I’ll recommend are Bun Thit Nuong—charcoal broiled pork with vegetables, topped with peanuts ($7.95), and Bun Ga Nuong—charcoaled chicken with lemon grass and cucumbers ($7.95). You can create your own flat noodle plates by adding your choice of tofu, chicken, beef or shrimp ($7.75 to $8.95) to the big noodles with vegetables and oyster sauce. Soups are a hit. Traditional Pho—rice noodle soup with bean sprouts, scallions, white onions and cilantro—is served with a choice of beef, chicken, meatballs, shrimp of tofu ($5.95). Ca Nuoung is the rice dish to zero in on. It’s made with either fresh tuna or salmon broiled in lemon grass sauce ($12). Another dish we raved about is Ga Nuong Xa—charcoaled chicken with a generous side of grilled carrots, zucchini, green beans and onions ($9.95). More beef, pork and vegetarian dishes round out the menu. Add convenience to the eclectic, user-friendly menu. Edamame serves lunch seven days a week: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and noon till 3 Saturday and Sunday. This is a cheerful place with plenty of room. We found lunchtime conversation easy in the pleasant surroundings. Service is super friendly. Lingering over a delicious cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee is a desirable way to conclude your meal. The potent blend will catapult you through the rest of your day! Edamame 4334 Lemmon Avenue (1 block north of Wycliff) (214) 521-8840 Send me an Email: jwdineline@aol.com