We've visited this restaurant 2 times since moving to the area, and while I don't particularly care for writing negative reviews, I have to tell the truth as I see it.
Our first visit to Jade Horse wasn't bad enough to keep us from visiting a second time; actually, we were undecided about our experience and wanted to see if a second visit would prove to be better or worse.
Initially upon walking into the restaurant, there's an odor that's hard to place; almost a cross between mold/humidity and urine/sewage. Appearance-wise, it 'looks' reasonably clean, but closer look at the carpet and walls shows a need for cleaning. The decor is typical Asian--not over or under done. They have a small Koi pond in the front and lots of seating in the lobby.
All of the staff we've encountered has been very nice, friendly and attentive---eager to you have all you need. Both visits were prefaced with something to the effect of...'the Buffet isn't fully stocked yet, but more will be out soon. If you want something you don't see, let us know'. Which for us, sounded like they tried to keep the Buffet minimally stocked until customers arrived. Both visits we were 1 of 2-4 other customers dining.
The buffet are is large, surrounded by a large amount seating options.
Dining Buffet: Able to accommodate a large amount of dishes. Dishes are labeled nicely but they'll have 3 different egg rolls in one pan, and it's difficult to know which is which without asking. Many of the pans has just a small amount of food in it, which caused it to dry out...with all the sauce stuck to the pan. Gravies and sauces had 'skin' on it and was very gelatinous as if it'd been there a long while. Another major concern that became especially problematic on our 2nd visit, is the tables aren't keeping or set to the right temps. MUCH of the food was room temp--barely warm, which can cause food bourne illness very easily. In fact, both my husband & I became slightly ill after our 2nd visit; it's because of this that we'll never return.
As for flavor...it's hit & miss. On our 2nd visit, what was tasty the first time was inedible the second time.
All in all, I can not in all good conscience recommend this restaurant; not at the risk of anyone getting sick. And while you can order off the menu, I'm concerned that their food handling and holding procedures may be lacking and still pose a risk to some degree.
Having owned a dining establishment myself, I'm well aware of Food Handling Safey regulations and how vital it is to remain consistent and steadfast to maintaining the guidelines for storing, handling and preparing safe food. I also understand that it requires committment and common sense. Basically...If I won't eat it...I won't serve it!
Would you recommend JADE HORSE RESTAURANT to others? No
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