Introduction
In this installment of culinary adventures, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through three standout restaurants, each bringing its own authentic taste of East Asia to the heart of Texas.
From the fiery spices of Sichuan, to the comforting bowls of Japanese ramen, and the savory delights of traditional Korean BBQ, Houston’s East Asian dining landscape is as diverse as it is delicious.
Mala Sichuan Bistro: Bringing the Bold, Authentic Flavors of Sichuan to Houston
Mala Sichuan Bistro stands out as a unique treasure, offering Houstonians a taste of the fiery, numbing, and aromatic flavors that have made Sichuan cuisine world-famous.
Founded over a decade ago, Mala Sichuan Bistro has grown from a single restaurant into a handful of beloved restaurants sprinkled throughout Houston and surrounding areas, captivating food enthusiasts with its dedication to authenticity and creativity.
The Essence of Mala
At the heart of Mala Sichuan Bistro’s success lies the mastery of “mala,” a signature flavor profile that originates from Sichuan Province in China. “Mala” combines two distinctive sensations: “Ma,” the numbing quality of Sichuan peppercorns, and “La,” the heat from fiery chilies.
Together, they create a unique and unforgettable experience for the palate that defines Sichuan cuisine.
A Personal Journey of Flavor
The restaurant’s founders were born in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province. When they moved to the USA, they discovered a surprising lack of authentic Sichuan cuisine. Even though Chinese food was available, it often catered to Western tastes and lacked the boldness they craved from their homeland.
A Door Opens
Determined to recreate the flavors of their childhood, they began bringing Sichuan peppercorns from China to cook their favorite dishes at home. When the U.S. lifted its ban on Sichuan peppercorns in 2007, it sparked an opportunity to share these treasured flavors with Houston.
Shortly after, Mala Sichuan Bistro opened its doors, introducing locals to the complex and potent “mala” flavor. Over the years, the restaurant has not only won the hearts of diners but also gained recognition from critics, foodies, and culinary professionals alike.
With accolades from all, Mala Sichuan has helped put Sichuan cuisine on the Houston map.
The Menu: An Exploration of Sichuan’s Rich Culinary Heritage
While the restaurant’s menu varies depending on location, each shop offers a deep dive into the traditional dishes of Sichuan, along with some innovative creations that push the boundaries of Chinese cuisine. Each dish is meticulously crafted to deliver a bold, authentic taste of Sichuan.
Appetizers That Excite
Start your meal with Lotus Root Mouth Watering Chicken, a refreshing dish featuring chilled, bone-in chicken drenched in a savory chili oil broth and topped with crunchy lotus root.
Another crowd-pleaser is the Couples Lung Slices, a spicy combination of beef shank, tendon, and tripe simmered with Sichuan spices, perfect for those seeking a more adventurous culinary experience.
Street Food Snacks with a Kick
Mala Sichuan’s selection of street food-style snacks is a testament to the simplicity and depth of Sichuan flavors. The iconic Dan Dan Noodles are a must-try, combining custom wheat noodles with mala sauce, sesame paste, and spiced ground pork.
If you’re looking for something cold and refreshing, the House Special Funky Cold Noodles are a chilled, spicy delight, tossed with garlic and a sweet, sour sesame vinaigrette.
Soups to Warm the Soul
For those seeking comfort, Mala Sichuan Bistro’s soups provide warmth and nourishment. The Nourishing Chicken Soup with Cordyceps Mushroom is a slow-cooked masterpiece, brimming with jujube, goji berries, and deboned chicken.
Seafood lovers can indulge in the lightly creamy Crab Meat and Asparagus Soup, a harmonious blend of snow crab meat and egg whites.
Poultry, Pork, Beef, and Lamb: A Rich Tapestry of Flavors
Mala Sichuan’s main courses celebrate Sichuan’s rich heritage of meat dishes, with options to satisfy every craving. The Spicy and Crispy Chicken, flash-fried with Sichuan peppercorns and dry chilies, is a customer favorite.
For a more savory, succulent option, the Tea Smoked Duck—marinated, smoked with tea leaves, and fried to perfection—delivers a deep, smoky flavor with every bite.
Pork dishes also shine on the menu, with highlights like the Twice Cooked Pork, where tender pork belly is boiled and sautéed with leeks in a sweet, spicy bean paste.
The beef and lamb dishes are just as noteworthy. The Dry Pot Beef is an extremely flavorful dish packed with a variety of vegetables and seasoned with ginger, garlic, Sichuan peppercorns, and fermented hot pot sauce.
The Aromatic Spicy Lamb Ribs, deep-fried and sautéed with cumin seasoning, offer a satisfying balance of heat and savory richness.
Seafood Specialties
Sichuan’s mastery of seafood is also showcased at Mala Sichuan. The Water Boiled Fish Fillet is a highlight, with tender basa fish fillets braised in fermented broad bean paste, served atop steamed Napa cabbage, and finished with sizzling hot oil.
For a milder option, the Egg and Tomato Fish Cubes stir-fry combines basa fish, scrambled eggs, and tomato sauce for a comforting, hearty meal.
Vegetables, Fried Rice, and Chow Mein: Comfort and Balance
The vegetable dishes at Mala Sichuan Bistro provide balance and depth to the robust meat and seafood options. The Mapo Tofu, a Sichuan classic, features soft tofu cubes in a mala bean curd sauce, while the Eggplants in Spicy Garlic Sauce are a simple yet delicious vegetable offering with a touch of heat.
For a complete meal, diners can pair their main courses with flavorful Fried Rice or Chow Mein, both offered with a variety of fresh vegetables and proteins.
A Hub for Sichuan Culture in Houston
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With its dedication to authenticity and a menu that both honors tradition and embraces creativity, Mala Sichuan Bistro is one of the leaders in introducing the bold, spicy, and aromatic flavors of authentic Sichuan cuisine to Houston.
Ramen Tatsu-Ya: Where Japanese Soul Food Meets Houston’s Heart
Houston’s vibrant culinary scene is home to a wealth of international flavors, and for those seeking the true essence of Japan’s soul food, Ramen Tatsu-Ya is a must-visit destination. The brainchild of chefs Tatsu Aikawa and Takuya Matsumoto, this beloved ramen spot is not just a restaurant but an experience that blends culinary precision with deep cultural appreciation.
A Unique Beginning: From Turntables to Tare
Ramen Tatsu-Ya’s origins are anything but conventional. The collaboration between Aikawa and Matsumoto was born out of a shared love for both music and food. Both chefs first made their marks as DJs in Austin’s hip-hop scene before finding their passion in the culinary arts.
Aikawa’s time working in the renowned two-Michelin-starred Urasawa in Los Angeles, followed by years living in Japan, deeply shaped his understanding of ramen’s complexity.
With that knowledge in hand, he returned to Texas, where he and Matsumoto opened Ramen Tatsu-Ya, bringing a new level of authenticity and quality to the Texas ramen scene.
Uncompromising Vision
The duo’s mission is simple yet profound: to educate diners about the true art of ramen. “We want to educate people on what ramen truly is. It’s the soul food of Japan,” says Aikawa. And indeed, their offerings do just that, moving far beyond the instant noodles many are familiar with to create a dining experience that showcases the depth and tradition behind this beloved Japanese dish.
The Soul of the Menu: Ramen Done Right
At the heart of Ramen Tatsu-Ya is the careful craft of ramen broth—a laborious process that can take up to 60 hours to extract the maximum flavor from each ingredient. The result? A rich, flavorful base that serves as the foundation for their menu of carefully curated ramen bowls.
Their signature offering, The OG Tonkotsu, is a perfect introduction to the ramen world. Made with creamy pork bone broth, it’s paired with succulent chashu pork, soft-boiled egg, wood ear mushrooms, and sesame seeds for a satisfying, umami-packed meal.
For those looking for something with a bit more complexity, the Sho-Yu Tonkotsu brings the added depth of a soy sauce blend, while the Miso-Not Tonkotsu highlights miso’s nutty richness with pork, napa cabbage, and a burst of corn for sweetness.
A Walk on the Wild Side
Feeling adventurous? The Miso-Hot Tonkotsu cranks up the heat with a spicy miso blend, delivering a fiery kick that will leave spice lovers more than satisfied.
The menu also includes lighter options, such as the Ol’ Skool Ramen, which features a delicate chicken shoyu broth, offering a Tokyo-style take that honors the dish’s early history as it evolved from Chinese immigrant cuisine.
Options for All
Vegan diners can try the Nu Skool and Curry Nu Skool ramens, made with almond milk tonkotsu broth, that delivers the same comforting satisfaction with a rich, creamy base, paired with fresh vegetables and tofu for a plant-based delight.
More Than Just Ramen: A Complete Culinary Experience
While ramen is the star of the show, the menu extends beyond the bowl. Start your meal with their addictive Karaage, Japanese-style twice-fried chicken served with garlic mayo and chili sauce, or the crispy Korokkayyy, a Japanese croquette stuffed with chashu pork and drizzled with house katsu sauce.
Lighter and Heavier Options
For something refreshing, try the Kizami Sweet & Sour Yodas, a vibrant salad of shredded Brussels sprouts, Fuji apples, and apricot, complemented by bonito flakes and black pepper for an intriguing flavor contrast. For heartier fare, the Chashu Rice Bowl, topped with soy-braised pork belly, is sure to satisfy.
Bombs Away
To elevate your ramen experience even further, Ramen Tatsu-Ya offers a variety of flavor bombs that allow diners to customize their bowl. From the fiery Spicy Bomb to the tangy Yuzu Kosho Bomb, these additions offer fun ways to kick your ramen up a notch.
Drinks and Atmosphere: Pairing Perfection
No meal is complete without the right beverage. There is an array of options, from cold teas and soft drinks to a carefully selected list of Japanese and American microbrews.
Sake lovers will find plenty to enjoy here, with both filtered and unfiltered varieties on offer, while those seeking a cocktail can indulge in sake and beer-based concoctions.
And with its casual, vibrant setting, Ramen Tatsu-Ya invites guests to relax and enjoy the experience, whether they’re a ramen aficionado or new to the world of Japanese cuisine.
A Houston Must
In a city known for its diverse and ever-evolving food scene, Ramen Tatsu-Ya stands out for its dedication to quality, tradition, and innovation. More than just a place to eat, it’s a place where diners can explore the rich history of ramen while enjoying the bold flavors crafted by its visionary chefs.
Korea Garden: A Taste of Authentic Korean Cuisine in Houston
For over three decades, Korea Garden has been a cornerstone of Houston’s Korean dining scene, offering a window into the rich flavors and traditions of Korean cuisine. Nestled amidst a serene garden and fountain setting, this restaurant invites diners into a peaceful, inviting atmosphere.
A Legacy of Authenticity
Founded in 1983, Korea Garden is one of the oldest Korean restaurants in Houston. Over the years, it has remained a family-owned business, dedicated to bringing the authentic tastes of Korea to the city.
The head chef, with over 20 years of experience, works alongside a team of dedicated Korean ladies to ensure that each dish maintains its traditional flavors.
The use of high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking techniques is at the heart of Korea Garden’s approach, offering Houstonians a dining experience that is as close to a home-cooked Korean meal as you can get.
Dive into a Culinary Adventure
The restaurant’s extensive menu features a wide range of Korean dishes, perfect for newcomers to the cuisine and seasoned diners alike. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty stew, sizzling BBQ, or a quick lunch special, Korea Garden has something for everyone.
Start with a Tempting Appetizer
Korea Garden offers a variety of appetizers to kick off your meal. From the crispy and flavorful Kimchi-Jeon, a pan-fried pancake with spicy kimchi, to the delicate Mool Man-Doo, beef and vegetable dumplings, these starters set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience.
For something unique, try the Yeom-So Moo-Cheem, a dish of hot-spiced baby goat meat with zucchini and onions, which offers a flavorful introduction to Korean cuisine.
Grill-It-Yourself BBQ
For a more interactive experience, Korea Garden’s barbecue options are not to be missed. Guests can grill their own meat at the table, choosing from a variety of marinated and non-marinated cuts. The Galbi (marinated short ribs) and Bulgogi (thinly sliced marinated rib eye) are crowd favorites.
Comfort in a Bowl: Stews and Soups
For those seeking comfort food, Korea Garden’s selection of stews (Jjigae) offers a warm and hearty option. The Kimchi Jjigae, made with boiled kimchi, pork, tofu, and vegetables, delivers a spicy and savory punch.
Another must-try is the Soon Tofu Jjigae, a soft tofu stew with seafood, perfect for warming up on a cold day. If you’re a seafood lover, the Dae-Goo Mae-Oon Tang (spicy cod stew) or the Gool Soon Tofu (spicy soft tofu stew with oysters) are sure to satisfy.
Hot Pot for Two
For a shared experience, Korea Garden offers hot pots that are cooked at your table, ideal for two people. The Hae-Mool Jeon-Gol combines shrimp, mussels, squid, octopus, and crab into a seafood lover’s dream, simmering in a rich broth.
Satisfying Rice Dishes
Korea Garden has rice dishes which are staples of Korean cuisine. The Bi-Bim Bab offers a delightful mix of beef, seasoned vegetables, and rice, topped with a flavorful sauce that you can mix to your preference.
While the Kimchi Fried Rice, topped with a sunny-side egg, delivers the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory notes.
Stir-Fried Delights
Korea Garden’s stir-fried dishes are bursting with flavor and spice. The Oh-Jing-Uh Bokgeum, stir-fried squid with vegetables in a hot pepper sauce, packs a spicy punch, while the Jahp-Chae, a stir-fried clear noodle dish with beef and vegetables, offers a milder, savory flavor profile.
Lunch Specials: Flavorful and Filling
For those looking for a quick yet fulfilling meal, Korea Garden’s lunch specials are both flavorful and affordable. Each lunch box is served with sides of assorted kimchi, vegetables, tempura, rice, and a side soup. Whether you choose the Galbi short ribs, Bulgogi (thinly sliced ribeye), or Shrimp Tempura, these dishes offer a generous serving of authentic Korean cuisine in a convenient package.
Experience Authentic Korean Cuisine at Korea Garden
Whether you’re new to Korean food or a seasoned enthusiast, Korea Garden offers a dining experience that is both authentic and satisfying. From sizzling BBQ to soul-warming stews, the menu is rich with options that highlight the best of Korean cuisine. With its beautiful garden setting and long-standing reputation, Korea Garden continues to be a go-to spot in Houston for those seeking a true taste of Korea.
Conclusion
Whether you’re in the mood for the electrifying flavors of Sichuan, the rich warmth of Japanese ramen, or the vibrant, communal experience of Korean BBQ, Houston’s dining scene has something to satisfy every craving.
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