A Fusion Flight of Fancy

You could stand on a corner and look around until a restaurant sign draws you in. But we've got a better idea. Each week, Agoura Hills Patch picks a great restaurant either in a town or nearby that is worth checking out.

Here's this week's choice:

Overview: If you are looking for an evening of Asian dishes but cannot decide on Thai, Chinese, or sushi, look no further. Moz Buddha Lounge specializes in Asian fusion with plates for all palates. This is a great place to come for a singles night out, a romantic date, or a group-friendly outing. If you are looking for a place for banquets or specials occasions then this is the place. Enjoy live entertainment weekly and their lovely outside patio. If you don't want to go out but are still craving an Asian menu, call for takeout. A plus? Happy Hour takes place every weeknight from 5-7 p.m. The lounge can get busy, so I recommend making a reservation.

Decor: With dim lighting, candles, and warm colors, Moz Buddha Lounge exudes a chic and elegant atmosphere. Throw on the fun cocktail dress and heels or your favorite suit coat for a fun evening. Your can sit at the bar and chat away with the friendly bartenders, dine while at tall stools in the bar, get comfy in a booth next to the Buddhas, or enjoy the nighttime breeze on the patio.

The Drinks: My personal favorite is their Chocolate Hazelnut Espresso Martini, especially since bartender Fred Terris taught me .  Along with a full bar, there is a wide assortment of beers on tap. Any martini here is worth the splurge.

Appetizers: This is one of my favorite sections of their menu. Great for sharing and nibbling. The Short Rib Egg Rolls ($12.95), with Asian bbq sauce, are amazing. Feeling fishy? The Thai Dungeness Crab Cakes ($16.95), with mango chili, and Spicy Ahi Tuna Tempura Roll ($14.95) should satisfy your appetite. If you are feeling naughty and want to splurge a little, the Maytag Blue-Cheese Kick Ass Fries ($8.95) are worth every extra minute on the treadmill. For the lighter side, try the Chicken Satay ($8.95) with peanut sauce or the Filet Mignon Satay ($14.95) with carmelized pineapple.

Soups/Salads: My favorite salad is the Thai Filet Steak Salad ($19.95), full of cilantro and lemon dressing. The flavors mixed are delicious. The Corn & Crab Soup ($7.95) and Lobster Chowder ($9.95) are for any seafood lover. With the cooler temperatures we have been having, the warm bowl of Spicy Thai Chicken Coconut Soup ($9.95) comes to mind. If you are a fan of the cobb salads and want to change it up a bit, try the Lobster Cobb Salad ($19.95), full of blue cheese, avocados, and egg. Are you vegetarian? Enjoy the Golden Lentil Soup ($4.95/cup).

Entrees: The "Live From the Tank" features on the menu are ones you won't find in many places around town. Enjoy live Maine Lobster, Dungeness Crab served in a Thai bean sauce or with cracked black pepper, and Spicy Wok live Maine Lobster. All dish prices are based on market price per pound. The Orange Ginger Short Ribs ($28.95) are a speciality on the menu with caramelized shallot mashed potatoes. Other favorites? The Shrimp and Chicken Pagnang Curry ($18.95) with exotic spices and coconut milk, the Tandoori Rack of Lamb ($28.95) on a bed of basmati risotto, and the Seared Hawaiian Tuna ($26.95) with asian vegetables. Their are chef specials that change weekly too. Make sure to try a stir-fry, whether it be the Filet Mignon Beef Stir-Fry ($21.95), the Shrimp and Chicken Stir-Fry ($18.95) with yakisoba noodles, or Vegetarian Stir-Fry ($16.95) with tofu and Asian vegetables. A fan favorite? The Hot & Spicy Crackling Shrimp ($18.95) which is wok fried and served with vegetables.

Sides: The Lobster Mashed Potatoes ($12.95) are pretty amazing, as well as the Garlic Wasabi Mashed Potatoes ($7.95). Both are flavorful and unique. On the veggie side, try the Chinese Broccoli ($7.95) or Fresh Spinach ($6.95). My favorite is the Vegetable Fried Rice ($8.95). Goes great with any of their dishes.

Service: Quick and friendly. The bartenders are fun and always manage to serve something that hits the spot. If you are not sure what to order the staff is great with suggestions.

Signature: Braised Short Ribs

Address: 30105 Agoura Rd

Cost: $$$