Forget the fountain of youth. Your ticket to feeling young doesn't involve a fabled Florida spring, but instead a Chinese restaurant dubbed Young’s. Point taken in the name alone, the Lakeview eatery promises fresh skinless chickens and lean flank steaks escorted by the freshest vegetables, a more youth invigorating substitute to the Burger King and Popeye's nearby, wouldn’t you say?
Spa sounds overhead remove patrons from the late-afternoon rush, immediately lowering blood pressure when cozying up in any number of royal-blue booths dressed with matching handkerchiefs atop white cloths. Palms embrace streetside sunlight and a full-service bar provides one's daily tonics, average $5.50.
Nobody too high profile pops in, which keeps this best-kept secret secure for the many police officers and high school teachers opting for slimmer waistlines. The calm climate works for dates, quick office escapes and groups of friends alike. Owner Judy Young chooses the Young's governor's chicken as her favorite: batter fried chunk of chicken with vegetables in a brown sauce ($9.95). The Kung bao and garlic chickens sell well.
Overall, Young's gets four stars – the controversial shark fin soup on the menu yanked the fifth.
Average cost: $10-$20
Centerstage Reviewer: David-Anthony Gonzalez