Lane Cardwell

When someone mentions Asia, what comes to mind?  China?  Of course.  Japan?  Of course.  But what about the other Asia?  I just returned from dinner at Bengal Coast, a new restaurant by one of the co-founders of Pei Wei Asian Diner, Mark Brezinski.  Bengal Coast has been a passion of Mark's for a long time and it opened a few weeks ago in the Oak Lawn area of Dallas.

 

And what is the other Asia?  Indian, Thailand, Malayasia and Indonesia.  Mark hopes to do for these cuisines what P.F. Chang's and Pei Wei have done for theirs...put them on the map for the mainstream dining public.

 

The menu is simple, which for any of these cuisines is a blessing.  Indian and Thai menus typically are long and difficult for the novice.  Mark has made them approachable, without losing any of the spice and flavor appeal that they are known for.  The entree sections are Asian Salads, Wraps, South Asian Stir Frys, Signature Currys and Flame Grilled Kebabs.  Prices for entrees range from $9-$18.

 

Mark has introduced other innovations into the concept.  Within the 4600 sq. ft., about 2/3 of the dining space is devoted to table service, while the remainder is a fast casual section which serves the same menu out of the same kitchen.  He hopes to let a guest fine tune their dining experience by choosing based on their needs at the time.

 

The decor is casual and sophisticated, comfortable and sexy.  It elevates the cuisines out of the mom-and-pop atmospheres that you so typically find them in.    

 

Could Mark be on to The Next Big Thing?

Industries: Emerging Chains, Expansion, Menu Development