Rice Bowl is the quintessential Chinese restaurant that everyone looks forward to visiting as a treat or for a special occasion and this Chico eatery has been providing such a location since 1959. However, since then it has undergone many changes and today has adopted a more cosmopolitan approach, offering Japanese cuisine as well as sushi. The restaurant stands like an Oriental oasis on the Esplanade and provides a calming influence to those looking for a change from the mundane.

From the Chinese menu, choices could be straightforward with appetizers of salt and pepper squid followed by Peking duck with hoisin sauce or hot garlic chicken, aided with plenty of fried or steamed rice. Along the same lines, choose chicken yakitori followed by seafood udon noodles and beef teriyaki, for those who want a taste of Japan. Sushi of course never loses its exotic appeal with a wide selection of rolls, sashimi and nigiri.