THERE ARE some days when I am in the mood for something new and innovative, and some days when the only thing I want is a classic comfort food. When I want the classic experience of Asian cuisine, there is nowhere in Lynchburg I trust more than Osaka Japanese Express. The restaurant isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel or offer a new, trendy entree — just consistently delivering great food, large portions, and that perfect umami flair.
My favorite is the mixed vegetable hibachi entree, which features tender zucchini, onion, broccoli, mushrooms, carrots, and boldly flavored lo mein noodles. If you are looking for a more protein-rich option, you cannot go wrong with the chicken yakisoba, with well-seasoned chicken served with rice and lo mein noodles. Both of these options deliver a flavorful punch and more food than I could eat in one sitting.
Personally, I can’t eat at a Japanese restaurant without trying two things: sushi and wontons. We ordered the “Rainbow Roll,” a specialty roll with crabmeat and cucumber topped with tuna, salmon, and avocado. It was served with some of the best pickled ginger I have ever had — perfectly tangy with a bit of a punch. The crabmeat and cream cheese wontons were fried to have a beautiful golden brown exterior and were sweet and creamy on the inside.
This local spot always delivers with flavor. The next time you are looking for a classic comfort food, dine-in or take-out, visit Osaka Japanese Express and tell them Good News Magazine sent you. GN
