Rosa E. Rodriguez | 210SA contributor Litte Tokyo is a great place to grab a quick but satisfying meal to re-energize for more shopping at North Star Mall.

It’s the smell of stir fry that makes you want to take a bite of some teriyaki beef, chicken or shrimp at this North Star Mall eatery. Passers-by can’t help but stand around and see the cooks tossing the meat in the air as customers wait for made-to-order dishes.
 
WHAT: Little Tokyo at the Food Court inside North Star Mall

WHERE: 7400 San Pedro Ave., (210) 348-9001, northstarmall.com

HOURS: 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday-Saturday, noon-6 p.m., Sunday

TASTE SENSATION: You’ll get your money’s worth at this venue. For about $4, you get a medium drink, a plate loaded with your choice of teriyaki beef or chicken, or sauteed shrimp served with an egg role or fried rice mixed with green peas and carrots, and sliced onions on the side. Add about $5, and you can request a combination plate of teriyaki beef and shrimp or chicken, or both. For those who can’t do without Tabasco sauce or spicy foods, spread a dab of hot, Japanese chile paste on the food for a spicier, tangier flavor.

TUMS-WORTHY: Be careful when spicing up your dish with the chile paste; you may need an Alka-Seltzer. Little Tokyo serves adequate portions that still leave room for a smoothie or desert from another food court find. 

THE 210 TAKE: There’s more to Japanese food than sushi. Although Little Tokyo lacks ambiance and a wait staff, it is a great place to stop by and sample the flavors of Japanese food while grabbing a quick bite to eat.

Rosa E. Rodriguez | 210SA contributor