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Monday, September 8, 2008
Omni Hut
I’ve heard so many good things about Omni Hut, way down in Smyrna. We made the trip down, and found a vintage restaurant where things don’t seem to have changed much since the place opened its doors in 1960. However, I think some freshening up of the menu would do this place good.
The decor is very vintage and felt a bit like Gilligan’s Island with blacklights. Classic luau music played in the background. Every single person we encountered, from the hostess to our waitress to the servers refilling drinks, was helpful, kind, and enthusiastic that we had come. Friends had warned us to call in advance or come early due to the crowds, but we had no problem getting seated on a Friday night at 6:30pm.
Our meal started very well. We ordered (marinated, battered, deep-friend) mushrooms for an appetizer; they were large and meaty. Had we known how much food was coming in our Tahitian feast, we would not have ordered them, however. Next came the first part of the Tahitian feast: a pupu platter-like presentation (with flaming pot!) of all sorts of meat-related items, such as shrimp panamanian (huge shrimp, battered and fried), crab rangoon, egg rolls, etc. We were also served egg flower soup (egg drop soup, really) which had very good strong flavor. Our waitress brought us hot towels to clean our hands after eating the finger foods, which was a thoughtful touch.
Finally, three entrees arrived: shrimp fried rice, sweet and sour pork, and chicken chow mein. These were definitely not up to par, and the recipes seemed to have not changed in 48 years. The chow mein and sweet and sour pork were both slathered with a gooey clear sauce that was fairly unappetizing, and the fried rice was bland.
We had great hopes for our visit there, but were disappointed with the entrees. It might be a fun outing to include in restaurant-hopping, if you go and order just the first portion of the Tahitian feast.
Omni Hut
618 S. Lowry Street
Smyrna, TN 37167
Tuesday – Saturday, 5:30 to 9:30 PM
(615)459-4870
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tnseidel — May 28, 2009 @ 10:57 am
Foodwise, I found nothing Polynesian about this place. I didn’t like the menu, or the food.
I thought that this was about the worst Chinese food I have ever had, and I have had plenty, all over the world. I honestly would much prefer a can of La Choy to this faire.
Andrea — January 12, 2010 @ 10:38 am
Personally, I think this is one of the true gems of Tennessee. Spectacular fare and great prices. The decor and atmosphere makes you feel as if you stepped into another world. Definitely try the flaming tid bits and egg rolls with any meal. Their sauces are also wonderful! Take some home with you.