Sun Luck Garden is back and going strong in Cleveland Heights

November 28, 6:49 AMCleveland Restaurant ExaminerJoann DiMatteo

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Chef/owner of Sun Luck Garden,  Annie Chiu, is on the mend.  After emergency open heart surgery this summer she closed the Taylor Rd. restaurant for what  seemed like ages but in reality was only a few spice less months.  Classified as contemporary Chinese it is that and so much more.  Her French, Thai and even Mexican influences show up in menu items and nightly specials.

Located on Taylor Rd. in an unassuming strip of stores it is easily overlooked.  You are in for a pleasant surprise once inside the 50 seat dining room.  It is at once serene and  inviting.  When stopping for lunch or an early take out  Annie herself may bustle out of the kitchen with a smile to greet and seat.  During a busy dinner her staff offers the same genuine care and attention to detail.

But let's be frank.  No one keeps going back if the food is lacking.  And keep going back  they do.   Primarily frequented by locals it is a place where people can take their friends  to  enjoy a casual dinner while demonstrating Cleveland Height's reputation for unusual and diverse spots.
 
The menu offers many traditional Szechuan and Cantonese choices . Light crisp egg rolls, perfectly balanced hot and sour  soup and delicate crab rangoon are a few of the starters.  More innovative appetizers include award winning butternut squash soup and a Mexican inspired pineapple stir fry that bursts with flavor.
 
Among the traditional entrees are Kung Pao, Chinese vegetables or Yu Shan with your choice of chicken, seafood or pork.  Eons above the ordinary is Honey walnut beef or chicken.  All are available in small orders, a great way to try two for the price of one.  Choose degree of heat and white or brown rice.  I am not quite sure how she does it but  Annie makes the best brown rice in town, also available in various fried rice selections.

Of the not so usual finds Ma po tofu is a creamy texture full blend of minced pork and fiery peppers.  Curry is the main spice in the delicious Mai Fun, angel hair rice noodles topped with a mix of julienne vegetables.  Having a friend with gluten allergies I know Sun Luck staff  will point out your options.  If it isn't on the menu just ask.  Annie is the consummate special order chef.  If it's possible, it's yours.  Remember to call in advance to order Peking Duck, crispy skin covering tender meat.

On a recent to-go run at Sun Luck I noticed the red address numbers on the door.  In the ancient Chinese tradition of Feng Shui red at the entrance will bring good luck to the owner.  I smiled and thought: "well, this time it worked not only for Annie but for all her customers happy she is back home."

Sun Luck Garden   $$
1901 S.Taylor Rd.,  Cleveland Hts.
216. 397.7676   Reservations recommended