The second you step into Azure, the red fish on the wall welcomes you to this self-proclaimed "vacation style" restaurant. The eclectic menu includes Caribbean, Greek, Latin American, Italian, Chinese and American cuisines.
A complimentary plate of corn chips with a side of black bean salad is a delicious alternative to the traditional bread and butter. For only $5.50, you can enjoy a starter of vegetarian pot stickers, akin to vegetable wontons. The appetizer menu also includes such delectable choices as Prince Edward Island mussels and roast corn and chorizo chowder.
However, the entrees are the truly exciting part of the menu. In addition to the specials of the day, staple entrees lend themselves to diverse origins. For example, the roasted vegetable empanadas ($8.50), jumbo lump crab cakes ($11) and spanakopita with tzatziki ($8) all hail from exotic locales. The latin-style empanadas come with sides of salsa and sweet corn cream, along with a little of each drizzled over the dish. It is truly rare to get such culinary art for such an affordable price.
Opting for an "upgrade" such as sweet potato fries with tomato-horseradish-cilantro cream ($3) compliments the entrees nicely. For those of legal drinking age, there is a bar adjacent to the dining room, complete with a jukebox and populated mostly by 20 and 30- somethings. Surprisingly, the noise from the bar does not intrude upon the quiet dining atmosphere. The aquatic theme resonates throughout both sections of Azure, bringing some unity to the diverse settings.
When you take the Market Street line to Spring Garden, this restaurant should definitely be on your list of places to visit. The menu and ambiance are conducive to a romantic or friendly meal at an affordable price.
