Sweet Tokyo

David Jam

Comp 1

2/8/11

With Valentine’s Day rapidly approaching many Rowan students, specifically males, are asking the same question. Where should I take my significant other for dinner? This could be a tough dilemma for the inexperienced diner, due to what would appear to be a variety of options. Based on my own dining and work experiences I would recommend either Sweet Lula’s or Tokyo Mandarin.

Sweet Lula’s restaurant, located in Pitman, New Jersey, is a five minute drive from Rowan’s main campus. The boutique style restaurant features a country French menu which is sure to impress even the harshest critics . According to Katie Kalvaitis, with the Courier Post, Sweet Lula’s features entrees ranging from scallops with bacon, to fish and chips. The restaurant also offers it’s signature homemade breads and soups. The specials change on a daily basis, and owner Chef Anthony Asbury says that the specials are often “ whatever screams out loudest while I’m at the market”. Rowan students can enjoy entrees such as a duck breast, pan sautéed in a port and cherry sauce, with shallots. If duck isn’t your cup of tea, there are many other fantastic entrees to choose from, such as the succulent lamb chops, or the tender pork medallions. The ambiance found within Sweet Lula’s front doors is both inviting and romantic, enhanced by candlelight and fresh flowers. In addition to the tasteful décor, students can watch classic silent movies which are played on the back wall. When it comes time for desert, guests are given a wide variety of delicious choices, ranging from bananas flambé to a white chocolate and raspberry crème brulee. An added attraction is that the owners’ wife, Louise Asbury, a recorded singing artist, often delights guests with her beautiful voice. All in all, the combination of Sweet Lula’s exceptional food and romantic atmosphere make it a must try for any and all couples.

In contrast to Sweet Lula’s country French menu, Tokyo Mandarin offers a combination of classic Japanese and Chinese cuisine. The restaurant is renowned for its sushi bar, especially it’s all you can eat sushi feature on Wednesday nights. It is located in Glassboro, New Jersey on Delsea Drive and is within walking distance of Rowan’s campus. Once inside, guests are greeted by a friendly staff and will find that the ambiance is also romantic and presents a cultural intrigue, making it a perfect choice for a date. Conversation will flow as the couple view the blend of Chinese and Japanese décor while they savor delicacies such as the shrimp tempura roll or the chicken with black bean sauce. Joe Colanero, Gloucester County Times, compares the quality of Tokyo’s food to its Philadelphia counterparts and stresses that driving to Philly for dinner may be a thing of the past. His interview with chef Yang reveals that the most popular dish is their signature dish, General Tso’s Chicken which is prepared with the freshest ingredients and coated in chestnut flour. He also describes the nature of the extensive training required of the sushi chefs. This combination of culinary discipline and expertise along with the unique atmosphere make it a wonderful choice for a dinner for two.

When it comes to the comparison of the two restaurants each have their pros and cons. Both Tokyo Mandarin and Sweet Lulas have excellent menu choice for dinner. However, In my opinion Sweet Lulas deserts have the edge in value and taste. On the other hand, Tokyo’s appetizers are to die for! While Sweet Lula’s romantic atmosphere is inviting, Tokyo’s cultural atmosphere is intriguing. All in all, both restaurants unique atmosphere in combination with their wonderful menus, make either restaurant agreat choice for a date.

Depending on your budget, Sweet Lulas would be the perfect choice for a romantic and extravagant night out, while Tokyo Mandarin offers a unique and more affordable dining experience. For the over 21, both restaurants allow diners to bring their own bottle. While these are only two of the local eateries available, they never fail to please and are a cut above the rest. Whether you choose Sweet Lula’s or Tokyo Mandarin, it’s sure to be an unforgettable dining experience.

Works Cited

Kalvaitis, K. (2010, June 10). Sweet lulas makes return. Courier Post,

Colanero, J. Asian delight exotic aromas perfume gloucester county. Gloucester County Times,