I've always been skeptical when it comes to Asian cuisine. I'm never sure how well the food will be cooked, what it will taste like, or if I'll even be able to understand the waiter as he's taking my drink order. Thankfully at Pasong's Café, I was able to breathe easy and enjoy an amazing handmade dinner without all of the worrying. Located on the corner of Court St. and N. Michigan Ave. in Saginaw, Michigan, Pasong's is a little difficult to find. Its outside appearance doesn't make it an easy target either. I mean, I wasn't exactly looking for the restaurant, but stumbled upon it while I was walking in that part of town. Once inside of the door, my nostrils were filled with the scent of strong spices and my eyes were immediately drawn to the colorful decorations. One amazing thing about this restaurant is that they support local artists by hanging their art in their restaurant. Covering wall to wall, canvas, glass, and 3D art pops out at you. Each piece of art has a price tag on it and if it doesn't, just make an offer. They also support local talent; comedians, singers, and bands. Want to purchase a ticket for an upcoming event? Just talk to one of the two sisters who run the place, Nonnie or Tina. When my boyfriend and I walked into the restaurant, we took a seat and were immediately greeted by Nonnie, a bubbly woman with a passion for food. She explained everything to us from the way they make certain foods on the menu to the heritage of the restaurant. I was enticed by her love for the restaurant. Somebody with a passion like hers can only make for an amazing experience. As for the food, I ordered orange chicken with white rice. It was very fresh compared to other Chinese restaurants. The chicken was moist without being breaded or deep fried. Nonnie explained that they cut off the fat from the chicken to make it a much healthier, tastier meal. They also make the orange sauce from scratch, giving it a much sweeter taste than normal. My boyfriend was much more adventurous and ordered the Pho. This dish is made with a spicy broth, noodles, fresh cabbage and meat. It comes in a huge bowl, enough to share between two to three people. It was very clean tasting and the spices gave it just enough kick to be interesting. I definitely recommend the Pho to everybody that goes to that restaurant. It's their signature dish. Pricing for this restaurant was a little high for my college student budget. For both my boyfriend and I, I spent $45.00, including tip. The sodas were straight from a can and did not include free refills, so if you're like me and like to get four to five refills during dinner, either be prepared to be charged for each can of soda or stick to water. The food was also a bit pricey, but since everything is made fresh and never frozen, I expected the bill to be higher. Nonnie explained to us early on that a lot of their regular customers are of Indian or Asian heritage. Most are doctors or lawyers since the restaurant is conveniently located kiddy-corner to the Court House and down the road from Covenant Hospital and Emergency Room. These regulars have no problem with the prices and enjoy a cuisine that is something that they recognize from home. Overall, I was beyond satisfied with Pasong's Café. I will only be able to visit there once or twice a month since I can barely afford the gas to make it to the restaurant, but I will definitely be recommending this restaurant to anybody who wants fresh, healthy Asian cuisine in a restaurant that's run by two women who have an extraordinary passion for food. read more

The orange chicken was really good and you could get the spice customized. I got it at medium, which they said was like a jalapeño. It wasn't that spicy at first, but then I really got sauce on it and the heat started coming through. The spring roll and the cheese Rangoons were also really good. Their Sweet and Sour sauce is different from what I'm used to, but still really good as well. I called it in since a review said they could have long wait times, and was given an ETA of 30 minutes. It was ready, but took them a few minutes to find my ticket since they just had a big party in. It's pricier than other Chinese/Asian cuisine places, but the food seems fresher, more crisp, and less "cookie cutter." They also use biodegradable containers versus the cheap plastic ones. Quality does cost more. read more

This little family restaurant has it all to satisfy the senses, smell, sight, taste, texture and the sound you make when you feel the love it is made with. They prepare their food fresh and simple (that's how it should be). The specials are special and they make you feel right at home. Even if your eating alone, you never feel alone. The atmosphere is pleasant and satelite radio is a nice touch. I can definately see how this is a local favorite. Looking forward to my next visit. read more

All I can say is WOW!!!!! I do not usual like to eat at chinese or Asian restaraunts but this place was amazing!!! All homemade food with the freshest ingredients. I left feeling comepletly satisfied and didn't get that too full feeling. I would love to take all of my friends and family with me the next time I go eat there. The waitstaff and even the cooks were so friendly and made me feel at home I could have stayed there all day. read more

Pasong creates her meals from fresh ingredients and to order. We have had private parties at Pasongs where our group takes over the entire establishment. It is a lot of work for her to prepare 30 orders all coming in at one time, but she's always managed to satisfy each diner. Pasong has a loyal following and I am looking forward to dinner there tonight. read more

Best meal I've experienced in a long while, nice to know there are still some of these hidden gems still around. Everything was hot made from scratch including the stock for the soups. How delicious it was is up to you to stop in and find out for yourself. As for me I will be coming back to experience more of what's to be offered here. read more

My favorite Asian cuisine in the area, the orange chicken is everything but the ordinary you find everywhere else. I love that they can make it spicy with peppers but still have the taste be slappin!! The Pho is also amazing. They have short hours so make sure to call ahead definitely worth it though !! read more

The food is delicious - fresh, healthy, REAL food :) There's a rich history here, and the staff is top notch. Definitely try the salads - you won't be disappointed! read more

Best of the Best in Asian food. She will change up your desired flavor, more or less of. The best spring rolls in town.

Fantastic service, fabulous food, and an all around great atmosphere!! :-) I give it two very enthusiastic thumbs up

I'm here every time I'm in Saginaw. Their Vegetable Delight (with Chicken) is a must have after I'm done with work!

The best food!! It is always fresh and delicious. I will get the chicken soup and spring rolls next time I order.

We used to love going here, but after an extremely poor customer service experience, we will not be going back.

I absolutely love this place!!! The staff and food always make my day, I literally can't get them off my mind!

Springrolls to die for. It's a very hip place with fantastic food. Outstanding staff too.

Excellent food and people!! Always tremendous and one can taste the love in the cuisine

ey opened Excellent homemade food have gotten food there since they opened

The best Asian food in Old Town Saginaw!!! Well worth the visit.