Saturday, 21 February 2009

An Episode With The Iron Chef...

"Memorabilia" of the restaurant, a photo from the Iron Chef series and fiery Szechuan food

The mention of Iron Chef always brings back fond memories of my late nights in Singapore in front of the TV. Dubbed in English and broadcast late at night, I was always left feeling ravenous after an episode. Following my move to Tokyo, I was determined to seek out a restaurant that has been established by an Iron Chef. Internet is definitely a useful tool for this mission and...lo and behold, mission accomplished!

My other half, roused by my ardour for the revered Chefs, was the perfect dinner date for the evening. Our pick was Akasaka Shisen Hanten Szechuan Restaurant by iron chef, Chen Kenichi. We had quite a trying time locating the restaurant. And our first impression upon setting foot in it was that time seemed to have stood still here. The decor was very 80s with heavy floor length curtains draped across the windows. Think of the Chinese weddings which you had been to during the 80s and you get the idea.

The food fared much better. We had some dumplings in chilli oil, chilli prawns, Mapo Tofu and Dandan noodles done just the way we like, spicy, robust and flavourful.

The overall experience was relatively pleasant but I must admit that I do feel disillusioned as I had envisaged a mind blowing experience.

Akasaka Shisen Hanten Szechuan Restaurant
Address: 2-5-5 Hiragacho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
Telephone: 03-3263-9371

Michelin: None



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