Grub StreetBoston

• New York
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco
• Chicago
• Philadelphia
• Boston

There are all sorts of reasons to stop into Rangzen. Maybe you think we should free Tibet. Maybe you really love the lunch buffet. Maybe you loved reading The Path To Tranquility and are constantly trying to relive that experience. While these are all on pretty different parts of anyone's priority list, no one can argue that Rangzen's food is terrific, and the service can't be beat. A little bit of Tibet in Central Square is good for the body and soul.

Rangzen is great for vegetarians, and they serve all kinds of perfect winter food. Their split pea soup is great - yes, even if you think you hate pea soup. Their noodle dishes warm our core temperatures. Their aforementioned lunch buffet is under $10 for all the appetizers and fruit you can eat, but as the sign says, "Please respect the food." Don't overload your plate, only to toss half of it out later. Be a contentious eater while supporting this lovely local business. Be as good to them as you would be to yourself. See? It's all very Zen.

As you would probably expect, the staff is well equipped to handle special dietary needs and is often pleased to do so. While lunch is quite a draw for the price and variety, the dinner menu is also a real treat. Their fresh veggies and tofu are a treat for anyone, and their meat dishes (particularly the chicken) are a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Take your whole gang of friends some evening (though you really should call ahead). One of our favorite spots in the chilliest months. They'll warm you right up, and you'll get to meditate on global affairs while you munch on your dumplings. We think that's a pretty nourishing combo.

Rangzen [MenuPages]

[Photo: euthman/Flickr]