Toro: Fusion Japanese & Chinese (Newtown, CT)

I couldn’t miss it.

My cousin Barbara was showing some of her artwork in Newtown (CT). The show was entitled a “zen garden — a minimal gathering of garden ceramics.”

Diane and I decided to head there at the end of the day so that we’d have time to grab a bite afterward with Barbara. We asked her to pick the place. Since that area of the state isn’t know for it’s food, expectations were quite low.

I was genuinely surprised not only for the deliciousness of the meal, but for the attractive presentation as well.

Instead of being plopped on a plate as in many Chinese restaurants, Toro’s crispy duck spring roll ($4) was cut diagonally and served in a soup bowl, dotted with a sweet sauce.  They served grilled and rolled beef with scallion — beef negimaki $7.50) — six rolls lined in a row on a banana leaf, sprinkled with sesame seeds.

Entrees included two house specialties: Mango Stir Fried Shrimp with asparagus and snow peas, served in a fresh mango ($12.95) and Thai Coconut Curry Delight with shrimp, chicken, mushrooms and other veggies is a slightly spice sauce ($14.95).

It’s worth a stop if you happen to be in the area.