Local site, Mandarin flavor

You needn't book a ticket to Beijing for a little taste of heaven. A 20 minute train trip, a 10 minute drive, or a $5 cab ride should do the trick. Destination: Mandarin Gourmet. This consistently fantastic Chinese restaurant has locations in Palo Alto, Cupertino and downtown San Jose, and without a doubt merits a visit.

If you're looking for novelty, this may not be your restaurant, but what Mandarin Gourmet can provide is the best version of Chinese standbys that you've ever had. Their pot-stickers are second to none ($6.25), pan seared to perfection and improved only by their superb soy sauce, vinegars and homemade chili oil. Don't dare skip them, but don't eat too many, because missing out on the main plates would be a sin in itself. All are quite good.

Consistency is the restaurant's strong point, and it's difficult to find a bad dish on the menu; however, one definitely stands out from the rest. When they say "Chef Specials," they mean it. The prawns with honeyed walnuts ($14.95) are absolutely to die for. The tangy creamy sauce compliments the prawns perfectly, and the toasted sweet nuts offer a flawless texture contrast. This might be taste perfection. Other dishes fall not too far behind. Order your favorite; you'll probably never eat it anywhere else again.

Mandarin Gourmet also offers a variety of cocktails to compliment your dishes. The Mai-Tai is an excellent choice. Fruity, but potent, it packs an equal amount of taste and tang, a welcome change from other weak and watery versions.

Aside from great food and drink, the restaurant also boasts excellent service and an unpretentiously elegant decor. Overall, a great choice for a fun or fancy outing. If you have a choice, the Cupertino location is ideal.

â€" Written by Michelle Murphy