The House of Hunan
By Laura Briedis
A staple in the community for more than three decades, House of Hunan by Suen is always spicing up its menu selections and dining experience.
“We have seasonal specials to entice diners to try something different, especially since we have so many regulars who dine here weekly,” says Cheryl Suen, who, along with her husband, Chef Lawrence Suen, owns the original Fairlawn restaurant, as well as a second location on the square in Medina.
“We travel every month looking for dining trends that we can bring back to Northeast Ohio. Last month, after returning from New York City, we added Poke Bowls to our seasonal menu, which are wildly popular there.”
New Seasonal Items
Best described as deconstructed sushi, Poke is a Hawaiian-style sushi that is served in a bowl instead of wrapped in a roll. The House Poke features cubed seared tuna and salmon, along with avocado, cucumber, cilantro, edamame, masago, seaweed salad and crispy onions in a fruity ponzu sauce.
Also popping up on the menu are Ramen entrées. A Japanese dish consisting of noodles served in different broths, diners can choose soy-based pork broth, deep-fried pork cutlet in a rich and creamy broth, tempura shrimp in a miso broth or vegetarian in a sesame broth.
“Diners also will want to try our seasonal appetizers, such as Taiwanese Pork Belly Buns and Spicy Chili Pork Wontons,” says Cheryl. “They are so flavorful and delicious.”
“If you cannot decide what to order and would like to try a little bit of everything, the Bento Box provides a sampling of soup, salad, sushi and rice,” adds Melissa Orndorff, manager of the Fairlawn restaurant.
“You can order it with pork cutlet, teriyaki chicken or salmon, tempura shrimp and vegetables.”
In the planning stages for the new year is a Chef’s Table, which will allow diners to sample even more chef’s specialties.
“We are remodeling the restaurant this winter and including a Chef’s Table where diners can sit down and have the chef cook in front of them,” says Chef Suen.
“This encourages culinary creativity and provides a very unique dining experience.”
Drinks with a Twist
Just like it is known for innovative cuisine, House of Hunan offers drinks you cannot find anywhere else in town. Try a Chinese Sidecar with brandy, fresh lemon and Chinese 5-spice simple syrup or an Apple Cider Mimosa for a fall flavor boost.
Tucked in the front corner with both barstools and booths, the lounge hosts happy hour every day from 4 to 7 p.m., with drink specials on martinis, wine and beer. Monday through Thursday enjoy half-priced sushi during happy hour on select sushi rolls.
“We also have half-priced appetizers during happy hour, including our popular spicy crab salad and chicken wings,” says Melissa. “Not your typical wings, they are dipped in batter for a double crunch and served with a sweet and tangy sauce.”
Catering for the Holidays
“Our private back room is the perfect venue for holiday parties,” notes Melissa.
“We can also cater off-site parties and customize a menu, including made-to-order sushi, for your special event. Give the restaurant a call for details.”
House of Hunan by Suen is located at 2717 West Market Street in Fairlawn and 18 Public Square in Medina. Call 330-864-8215 (Fairlawn) or 330-722-1899 (Medina) for restaurant reservations, takeout orders or visit TheHouseofHunan.com. Dining hours are Monday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for lunch, and 4:00 to 9:30 p.m. for dinner; Friday 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for lunch, and 4:00 to 10:30 p.m. for dinner; Saturday noon to 10:30 p.m.; Sunday noon to 9:30 p.m. The dinner menu is served all day on Saturdays and Sundays.