Mansfield may not be known as a culinary destination, but suburban restaurant-goers will be happy to note two up-and-coming establishments that are within walking distance of each other on Route 106 but serve dishes that are worlds apart.

Late one afternoon, feeling adventurously ravenous before a Patriots game, my friend and I decided to stop at Kyoto Japanese Steak House. Our excitement initially turned to skepticism when we realized it was located in a strip mall, flanked by dry cleaners and a convenience store. But once we got inside the restaurant, we were immediately relieved — and impressed.