Taiwanese Dinner @ Hodara Lu Ro Fan, Otemon, Fukuoka

 

Although somewhat the new kid of the block, this shop has been making some serious waves. So being keen to try something new, and after some great endorsement from friends here I am, at Hodara Lu Ro Fan. And yes, its a Taiwanese restaurant and bar under the watchful eyes of an actual Taiwanese person. 

Oh look what we have here...

It was quite funny that I came here during the time that the Taiwanese festival came over for the second time this year. Although I did have some fun, I felt like I could do better. Managed by chef and owner Jacky, Hodara Lu Ro Fan, or Hodara in short, serves classic Taiwanese fare with some sophistication without leaving away the authenticity. 

Off to a good start. 

Since this is my first time, I had to try the braised pork rice and as a companion, a starter combo which has a mix of the favourites of the chef.  Standing at 800 yen, the combo consists of braised tofu, braised pork and corn ribs. It should be noted that what the combo consists of changes from time to time, keeping things interesting. 

Triple threat

The corn ribs provided some freshness and crunch, while the tofu had a softness while being enveloped by a crunchy starch coating and the braised pork was just serious decadence. The meat was so delicate that everything was falling apart and the fat felt like butter. Just too good. But if you want to have some serious porky delights, you should go to their heavy hitter which is their lu ro fan. 

The boss

Honestly there is no food that defines Taiwan that this, and it is their main thing in this place. It is in the name of their shop after all. The meat had a very nice texture to it. It was tender and yet had some bite. The spices were pretty strong but at the same time, when being paired with rice, it provided a mellow glow. The combination of various elements made this an interesting textural experience. All the different scales of softness and yet there was something that makes it multidimensional. I really like the floral kick of the spices. It was braised for hours before it was placed on that bed of rice, so it allow all the ingredients to meld together well. The red pepper corns scattered, provided some spice and zesty contrast. Of course, you cannot have a complete bowl without an egg and that help round out the meal perfectly. Standing at 1000 yen, it was pretty decent. 

Refreshing

Of course, you need something refreshing to take all the fat down. As I had a bit too much to drink the night before, Jacky recommended the lemon tea, which stood for a modest 550 yen. It was what I need and really help improve on the overall experience. He has some interesting alcoholic drinks that I would like to try. Next time for sure. 

Another angle. You cannot miss it

Well what can I say? I think I found a new place to hang out! The food is good, the place has a nice vibe to it and the man behind the bar is a stand up guy. Thanks Jacky for the food and company. So if you want to try something a bit different, why not pay a visit? Despite being slightly away from the main city, it is close to the famous Ohori Park, making it easy to get to. And do not forget to tell Jacky I brought you there. Fancy a go? The address is as follows;

1F, 1 Chome-8-20 Otemon, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0062