Bonsai
Bonsai is scheduled to explode onto the Tucson Japanese scene Feb. 20, with a fusion-style concept serving teppanyaki and sushi. Teppanyaki is the Japanese art of tabletop cooking that turns food preparation into entertainment. A variety of meat, fish, poultry and vegetables are cooked on hot metal plates (the grill) while you watch. Owner James Kim chose an industrial design with black walls, blue lights and metallic accents. Chefs will wear all black, including black berets. Featuring a full bar, Bonsai will be open weekdays for lunch and daily for dinner. Located on the north end of the Bashas' shopping center at Swan and Camp Lowell roads. 325-4494.
Pei Wei Asian Diner
Opens Feb. 23 at 5285 E. Broadway Blvd. across from the Williams Centre. Pei Wei (pronounced pay way) is the fast-casual little sister of P.F. Chang's serving dishes from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand and Vietnam. 514-7004.
Slow Food
The local chapter of Slow Food USA hosts a two-part event on Feb. 21. First, mosey on down to the 17th Street Market for a cooking demonstration of how to prepare lotus root, taro root, fish sauce and more at 11 a.m. or noon. Afterward, join the group at 1 p.m. for dim sum at Gee's Garden Bistro. Requested donation is $10 to Slow Food, plus the cost of lunch. Check the Slow Food Web site for specifics: aspconnections.net/slowfood/home.asp.
