Lantern
What People Are Saying About Lantern
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In Short
An Asian-inspired atmosphere boiled down to the essentials: green-tea colored walls, sleek black tables, iridescent paper lanterns that hang from the ceiling like mismatched baubles. Lantern fills a niche in Chapel Hill with its nouveau-funky attitude, but even casual diners will feel comfortable gathering here. The steamed black cod is light and succulent, perfectly flavored with ginger, scallions and black beans. For dessert, the hot chocolate cake with ginger ice cream is near perfect.
User Reviews
CarolinaJames
September 03, 2008
Having spent significant time on the west coast, where gourmet Asian fusion places are a dime a dozen, I was pleasantly surprised to find Lantern in Chapel Hill. Although it would be fairly common-place in a larger city, Lantern really shines in Chapel Hill... tasty and fairly unique food, imaginative drinks, and slick decor. The only drawback is that it gets quite loud when it's busy... an atmosphere that can be pulled off in chic restaurants in larger cities, but one that doesn't quite work on Franklin St.
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JPP1123
August 04, 2008
I was really impressed with Lantern - though the ambience wasn't as elegant as comparable DC restaurants, the food more than made up for it. The dumplings were excellent, the chicken delicious but not as delicious as the farm fresh long beans that accompanied it. Our favorite was the pork lettuce wraps - absolutely wonderful. The drink menu was exciting in a town of $2.99 miller lites - I recommend the dark and stormy (rum and ginger beer). We did not sit at the bar, but we did peek in and we plan to go there next time - its dark and romantic, a complete contrast to the bright, stark restaurant. We didn't save room for dessert, but next we'll try!
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carlagina
February 28, 2007
After seeing all the raving reviews, I had to go here. I'm Asian and love Asian-fusion restaurants. Unfortunately, I wasn't very impressed with the food. Everything my date and I ordered had no taste. I was disappointed...especially for the cost. Although, I must say...LOVE the bar... the drinks, decor, and cozy feel are great.
read full reviewThe Details on Lantern
Parking:
If you can't find a space in the restaurant's small lot--or on the street--park in the larger lot located next door to the restaurant.
What To Drink:
Those who fall victim to a long waiting list should saunter to the restaurant's bar, where red-hot colors and cocktails offer a pre-dinner tease.
Category:
Payment Methods:
Restaurant Special Features:
People Watching, Business Dining, Celeb Hangout, Notable Wine List
Cuisine:
Smoking Permitted:
No
