Genghix Asian Fusion: First stop on restaurant tour

Grab your knife and fork, bring an appetite and join me for an interactive monthly review of Carson City restaurants. We'll be sampling all varieties: New, established, ethnic, fancy, basic. And I want your opinions on which places to try, hot tips on new spots or old favorites.

An 18-month branding effort by the Convention and Visitors Bureau along with Carson City Redevelopment indicated dining was a leading opportunity to attract more people to Carson City, hence our new brand, "Carson City, Taste the High Sierra."

I'll be writing a monthly column on area restaurants. But like Chef Auguste had expert guidance from Remy the rat in the film, "Ratatouille," I need your help with this recipe. Let me know if you have discovered a great place that is uniquely Carson City.

With the new dining focus, I have begun my own research to sample new and existing establishments. Like you, I have my favorites but have also discovered a whole new world of wonderful flavors.

I recently discovered Genghix Asian Fusion, a great place for Asian-inspired food at reasonable prices in a gracious setting at 1480 N. Carson St. (the former Scottie's Restaurant). It has been completely redecorated and the food is fresh and tasty. Owner Paul Lum (formerly of Genghix Kahn restaurant) has a menu that appeals to lovers of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese and Thai cuisine.

I tried the Tai Nam, a Vietnamese rice noodle soup, slices of steak and flank in a tasty broth. It was delivered in a huge bowl with a tray containing fresh basil, bean sprouts, jalapeno peppers and lime wedges, a wonderful combination of flavors.

On another visit, it was noodles with grilled shrimp, similar to a salad with rice noodles and fresh vegetables, topped with a sweet and spicy dressing of vinegar, sugar and chili sauce. Very tasty and fresh. Nearby diners were enjoying Mongolian beef, orange chicken and pho, and conversation indicated high ratings.

Lunch specials are $6.95-$7.95 and include egg roll, crab wonton and choice of house salad or soup of the day. Dinner entrees range from $6.95 to $15.95.

The menu is varied and affordable, so the next time you and your friends are wondering where to go for lunch or dinner, try Genghix. Hours are Monday through Friday, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. for lunch and 5-9 p.m. for dinner. Saturdays and Sundays from noon until 9 p.m. There's also takeout and free delivery. Call 887-8883.

- Candy Duncan is executive director of the Carson City Convention and Visitor's Bureau.