Have you ever walked into a Chinese restaurant only to find the chef in front of the wok isn’t Asian? Come to think of it, Ho Sum Bistro doesn’t have any Asian chefs either. Normally, that would be a red flag to warn the patron of what they could expect from a restaurant that features Chinese cuisine. At Ho Sum Bistro, that is far from the case. The food lovingly prepared here is not greasy nor do you get the heavy stomach feeling after you have dined at this establishment. In fact, that is the mantra used here at Ho Sum Bistro – Califoriental Cuisine.

By: Duan Dao
Luxozine.com Director

Ho Sum is an immense fusion of Chinese cuisine with a healthy California twist. This fine eatery, nestled between two non-descript buildings, benefits from an array of natural lighting thanks to the forethought of an architect that designed the structure. Inside, it’s open and airy with a second floor over looking the main dining area. The same openness that adorns the upper floor also springs up throughout the cooking and preparation area where diners can watch their food come to life.

We first learned about Ho Sum Bistro from a co-worker. He himself stumbled upon the eatery when gazing at rings with his fiancé at the jeweler next door. Our first visit was during lunch hour and we were instantly hooked on the incredibly generous portions of the Combo Salad. This delectable salad is an amalgamation of their two most popular salads, the Ho Sum Chicken and the Sesame Seed Chicken. The Combo Salad features a great balance of flavors and textures to get your appetite going for the myriad of other courses offered. The Combo Salad quickly became a favorite amongst the Luxozine wives club and is now a must-order during each visit. The second most favorite dish that we regularly order is the Minced Chicken Lettuce Wraps. Drizzled with what we believe is a variation of Hoisin Sauce and a dash of hot mustard with hot chili, this liquid goodness really clears up the sinuses and warms the stomach.

Every dish that we have ordered has not disappointed us in the least. Looking forward to other entrées, we moved on to Ho Sum Bistro’s Kung Pao Lo Mein. Quickly after, we moved to the succulent dish, Chinese Pepper Chicken which is served on a bed of brown rice and is truly to die for. We passed up the spicy label and are now confident we can pass along this friendly warning: Heed all piquant labels with caution!

During a recent trip to Ho Sum Bistro, we decided to sweat one out by ordering the Honey Glazed Chicken. It didn’t take long for this juicy dish to warm up our taste buds. Rest assured, it was well worth the sweat. It is easy to become wrapped up in the spices and flavor. So much so, we almost forgot to mention that Ho Sum prepares their food in a way that keeps health a top priority. You won’t find the dreaded film of peanut oil grease on your skin after exiting this fine establishment.

To douse the fire in your mouth, you can turn to their large wine selection. However, watch out for the Asian Glow if you happen to be accompanied by our Director, Duan Dao. Ho Sum has quite a variety of California wines ready to be served with your meal or as part of your dessert.

Ho Sum Bistro offers weekly lunch specials that run from 11AM – 4PM, Monday through Saturday. The best offer we found lies in the all you can eat or drink Champagne brunch for a derisory $15.00! That is a bargain this day and age when you can easily spend that much on a single order of cocktail’s at some other establishments.

If you find yourself at the corner of Newport Blvd. and 32nd St. in Newport Beach, California, do not hesitate to do your taste buds a favor and drop into Ho Sum Bistro. We’re sure you won’t be disappointed with the food, atmosphere and friendly staff.

For more information or catering for events call Ho Sum at 949.675.0896. They are located at 3112 Newport Boulevard, Newport Beach, CA 92663.