taste

***

Golden Pond Hong Kong Seafood Restaurant

1753 Hudson Av., St. Paul, 651-793-0001

Atmosphere: Minimal decor, silk flowers.

Service: Friendly, helpful with suggestions.

Sound level: Moderate.

Recommended dishes: Deep-fried sole with roasted garlic, steamed lobster with garlic and Chinese wine, stewed tofu with scallop in XO sauce.

Wine list: No alcohol.

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 11 a.m.-midnight. Lunch buffet served Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Price range: Entrees $7.75-$18.50; lunch buffet $5.95.

Credit cards: V, MC.

Smoking: No smoking weekends, smoking section weekdays.

Wheelchair accessibility: Completely accessible.

Parking: Lot in front of restaurant.

Children: No special menu, but items such as chicken wings, fried won tons and egg rolls are available.

WHAT THE STARS MEAN:

****

Exceptional