FOODIE

Take-Out Or Dine-In, Jani Is Tops
By Luann & Company/foodie@longislandernews.com

Every Chinese food restaurant does things a little differently, whether it’s putting its own spin on an egg roll, having a different proportion of vegetables in the moo shu, or the consistency of the sweet and sour sauce. Jani restaurant is no exception, and we found that all their unique takes are wonderful.

The Huntington Station restaurant is located in the shopping center just south of the Walt Whitman Mall. A sushi bar greets you on your way in, and a roomy and pleasant dining room follows. But don’t shy away from take-out; the food is just as good to-go.
What stood out the most to us was how every dish seemed relatively greaseless, not an easy accomplishment for a place whose menu contains fried rice, fried egg rolls and fried dumplings, among others.

We started with pan-fried pork dumplings ($4.50), just doughy enough and stuffed with well-seasoned meat. On a prior visit we enjoyed the boneless spare ribs ($5.95), tender and tasty, with a tangy sauce. Either is a great way to start the meal.

Of our three main dishes, shredded pork with garlic sauce ($8.95) was the standout. The garlic sauce provides the slightest kick to the long shreds of well-cooked pork, and the dish is loaded with other shredded vegetables. General’s Chicken ($10.95) is a heavier dish, but lighter than other General Tso’s chicken dishes we’ve had elsewhere. We could really taste the chicken, as it was not overpowered by breading and dough. The sauce was pleasing to the palate as well, unlike many thicker sauces we’ve had. Light and flavorful, the Beef with Broccoli ($10.25) balanced out the General’s Chicken, with fresh, crunchy broccoli.

For our sides, we opted for fried rice ($7.50) that comes with your choice of chicken, beef, pork, shrimp or vegetable. A light brown color, it tasted and looked lighter than some of the heavier, greasier versions we’ve had. Sautéed string beans ($7.95) are a winner, providing that extra veggie crunch to your meal in a sweet but salty brown sauce. Lo Mein ($7.50) is a must-have for the noodle lovers.

Chinese isn’t the only thing on the menu. The restaurant also does Japanese dishes, including teriyaki, tempura and sushi. Coupled with lunch specials from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Jani is a great place for an afternoon lunch or dinner in or out. Delivery is free, minimum $15.

Jani
350 Route 110, Huntington Station
631-421-5264

Atmosphere: Classic, casual
Cuisine: Chinese and Japanese
Price range: Moderate
Hours: Mon. to Thurs. 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.;
Fri. & Sat. 11:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.;
Sun. noon – 10 p.m.

Main Menu