Like me, you may have been re-initiated into civilization after Outdoor Action and introduced to Princeton over Chinese food at 238 Nassau St.
You may have dined there in the open air before Houseparties or you may have been cramped among dates, long coats and puffy dresses before Winter Formals, practically sitting in the hostess' lap.
Or what used to be Orchid Pavilion might just have been the setting for a relaxing off-campus Friday night dinner with friends.
Even if you never passed through the wrought-iron gates, the name "Orchid" probably rings familiar as one of the few mid-price range "BYOB" establishments in a downtown that caters more to alumni salaries than work-study wages.
This year, the restaurant is under new management. While the similar decor and name change from Orchid Pavilion to Golden Orchid might suggest little more than a rearrangement of words and wall-hangings, you will find that the cleanliness as well as the food are surprisingly a step above its predecessor.
The menu offers a combination of good-old stand-by choices, such as chicken and broccoli, all varieties of lo mein, steamed vegetables and fried rice. But is also supplemented by more exotic dishes, such as Fresh Pineapple with Shrimp Siamese Style.
Although my waitress eagerly recommended this succulent spicy selection as a customer favorite, the General Tso's Chicken overwhelmingly received the golden medal at my table despite the pineapple shrimp's elaborate and elegant presentation.
There are several vegetarian platters in addition to "hotter" options that are marked with a chili pepper next to their names on the menu.
For something lighter, I recommend the flavorful Three Musketeer blend of asparagus, snow peas and string beans.
Most main courses run between $8-$15, and appetizers such as tender seafood dumplings average between $4-$6.
Although dinner is slightly pricey for the no-frills atmosphere, Golden Orchid does offer an enticing array of lunch specials Monday-Friday from 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. For $5-$7, you will get a main platter accompanied by your choice of soup, soda or eggroll. Additional sides are only $1 each.
Call-in orders are also possible, but I have heard that the food is better in-house than take-out. The restaurant charges $1.50 for deliveries, and there is a $10 minimum for orders. It does not accept credit cards.
While we will all probably continue to refer to Golden Orchid as simply "Orchid," the new restaurant should be judged on its own for good food and welcoming ambiance.
For those over 21, Golden Orchid is still BYOB, which is a nice way to keep the price on dinner from skyrocketing.
In any case, the new restaurant is sure to be host to an enjoyable evening for any occasion.
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