Penang

Contributor

Citysearch

The Scene
This second-floor restaurant inside the Crimson Galleria lacks the bamboo-laden comfort of its Chinatown sibling, resembling instead an oddly designed industrial loft. Bubbly modern light fixtures, exposed ductwork and faux-glass sculptural tables are an awkward fit, as if left over from the space's previous tenant. The clamorous room's best feature is a row of full-length windows along the back wall, looking down on the parade of Cambridge street traffic below. Efficient service is precise, but lacks finesse.

The Food
Insanely hot spices work aside ginger, curry and tamarind to create an enormous and uneven seafood-heavy Malaysian menu combining Chinese, Thai and Indian influences. Order carefully, as some entrees are as bland and unimaginative as neighborhood takeout. Go for distinctive dishes like sweet and sour mango chicken, with heaps of mango and crunchy noodles served in a mango shell. Be wary of the spicy notation next to certain menu items--it means serious heat.