ow original; another Asian eatery has opened up in the Annex. This latest addition, Crystal Rolls, takes on the protective coloring of the space that was previously Asia Republik. If you blink twice you may miss this one.


With its sleek white tables, tea lights, and hanging Asian tapestries, this new eatery has, to a certain degree, re-branded the entire space. New owners have revived the aquarium-like vibe of their previous venue, Goldfish.

The owner and chef, Andrew Lin, has garnered an elegant atmosphere within Crystal Rolls that certainly lets customers know they're in new confines. Ornate chandeliers, rows of cozy (perhaps too close) tables and a respectable service bar contribute to the overall vibe of the place. And yet, in its meekness, it all blends together into an interesting collage.

Owner Lin admits to having the new spot jitters that inevitably come with a bit of chaos. But he has created a restaurant that has something for everybody who enjoys Asian cuisine. Whether you’re craving a hot bowl of classic Vietnamese pho or planning to do it up large with Korean Style BBQ Short Ribs ($ 11.95), the large portions are sure to fill you up.