Xiong Di Chuan is a typical izakaya (a type of
Japanese eatery) that offers an intimate atmosphere,
homely settings and definitely impressive
food. The raw squid (18RMB) was a knockout side
dish, with fresh slippery strips perfectly matched with
the characteristic sweetness of mashed turnip. With
our expectations well exceeded, the tempura anago
(70RMB) continued to wow us with its flawless crispy
batter and juicy sea eel, as did the accompanying
vegetable tempura. The deep fried beef (110RMB)
was cooked spot on and left the rare A4 Japanese
beef with a crunchy coating. It was a heart throbbing
treat. The BBQ pork ramen (45RMB), despite its unconvincing
appearance: clear broth, sprigs of green
onions and a few slices of streaky pork, turned out
to be a delightful surprise. We savored every drop of
the broth which had a well-balanced flavor from pork
and bonito, but we didn't forget the al dente noodles
that did not give in to the hot soup. It would be an
understatement to say that the food here is good.
The food is unpretentious, yet exquisite and demonstrates
careful thought put into execution. So do not
be intimated by the Japanese menu without any pictures,
as that's the only hurdle to overcome to savor
some memorable culinary delights.
56, Liu Yun Wu Jie, Ti Yu Dong Lu, Tianhe District (8751 9266)
兄弟船，天河区体育东路六运五街56号
Daily: 5 p.m. – midnight Payment: all cards
Price: 150RMB pp