Philadelphia Asian Birthday dinner

[nancina]

Looking for an authentic, but not too grungy Chinese or Vietnamese restaurant to celebrate my mother's birthday with my kids and husband. We are happy with casual because good flavors are more important than looks, but I do also want to make it a celebratory meal.
Thanks,
Nancy from New York City.

[Hungryin theBurbs]

In a slightly different direction, you might consider Rangoon, a Burmese restaurant. The food is unique, most like a blend of Thai and Indian, with some other east asian flavors mixed in. It's in Chinatown, casual but nice inside. It is always a hit with my family and out of town guests.

For Vietnamese, Vietnam probably has the nicest atmosphere and pretty good food. Han Dynasty is great for Szechuan. I"m not sure what's good for Cantonese these days. I used to like Shiao Lan Kung, but it has gone downhill. Maybe Sang Kee?

[Philly Ray]

Nam Phuong in South Philadelphia or Vietnam in Center City. Nam Phuong is good because they have parking.

[cwdonald]

If your mother and children are comfortable with spice. ... Han Dynasty would be a great option. The best local Szechuan flavors.