Personally, I have a hard time distinguishing Chinese cuisine from Taiwanese cuisine. When you mix these two in one table, I could instantly say it’s Chinese, probably because of the colonization issue that my senses would instantly think of that.
Like a chameleon, Taiwanese cuisine could be mistaken at times as Chinese but those who are really into it would definitely say that Taiwanese does have that distinct and intense flavor when tasted.
My first immersion to Taiwanese cuisine was when I visited Taipei, Taiwan last year. I may say that I am not a food explorer but I tried my best back then to at least try what that country could truly offer. Luckily now, Taiwanese cuisines can easily be found around the corner, yes here in Manila. (Also Read: Grand Hyatt Taipei)
Continue reading and will tell you more about it, including my top 10 Taiwanese dishes that bring my tummy back to Taiwan.
The Fat Fook Kitchen is now in BGC
Fast Growing Taiwanese chain, FAT FOOK just recently opened its newest branch tucked in the heart of Bonifacio Global City in Taguig. It is the company’s 5th installment in the country specifically located at The Globe Tower, 32nd street. Remember the famous Bar by Erwan Huesaff, Niner Ichi Nana, that is now the New Fat Fook branch.
Fat Fook in Manila is owned and managed by the same group that operates Ramen Nagi. Conceptualized by the group’s executive chef, Rachel Kao, who was born in Taiwan and grew up in the Philippines.
A modern take on the Authentic Taiwanese Dishes
The whole place was decorated with China
Rooting the Chinese word “Fa” (gaining) and Foo (Taiwanese term which means prosperity or auspicious). Fat Fook can be literally translated to “Increasing Luck.”
When I got my first bite at the Taiwanese cuisines, I realized that their food is not really far from what we usually eat here in the Philippines. Though Taiwanese dishes tend to be a bit salty, sweet, and sometimes spicy, you’ll instantly get the hang of them once you started eating.
Here in Fat Fook, they have managed to also adjust to what Filipinos would definitely take in. And to keep it authentically Taiwanese, they made it possible to import fresh ingredients all the way from Taiwan to Manila!
Dining here at Fat Fook Kitchen definitely takes me back to the feeling of my first dining experience in Taiwan. For those who have not yet visited Taiwan, well, dining here would make you feel like you are on a food adventure.
Some of the new Menu you should try on your next visit
On my visit, I listed down some of the dishes that I could truly recommend and some that truly takes me back to my first trip to that country.
10 Fat Fook Kitchen Dishes you should try!
1. Tofu with Century Egg & Pork Floss (Php 228) – This is a sweet a bit sour combination of Tofu and Century Egg.
2. Rice Topped with Taiwan Minced Pork & Egg (Php 168) – Rice Topped with Taiwan Minced Pork & Egg became my comfort food when I visited Taipei. It was relative to a particular dish we have here in the Philippines, plus it is one of the few rice dishes I encountered in Taiwan. Luckily, Fat Fook has made it like a replica of what I tasted in Taiwan! Amazing!
3. Fried Stinky Tofu (Php 228) – Something I am not strong enough to try in Taiwan because you know, its stinky smell. Though here in Fat Fook, they have managed to lessen its stinkiness, making it a bit tolerable to taste. If you are up for it, go have a bite.
4. Taiwanese Sausage (Php 328) – The Taiwanese Sausage is something you could regularly see being sold on different streets and markets in Taiwan.
5. Fat Fook Chicken Chop (Php 308) – I particularly love its saltiness that blends perfectly in every crunch. You would definitely get to savor the unmistakably asian flavor.
6. String Beans with Minced Pork (Php 188) – Another comfort food I regularly ate in Taiwan. This can be seen regularly in different restaurant and being serve in buffets as well.
7. Cua Pao (Php 228)
8. Crispy Fried Intestine
9. Pork Xiao Long Bao (5pcs-Php 168/ 8pcs- Php 258) – This dish will sure not dissapoint anyone who would try it. In the steaming Xiao Long lies a broth-filled steamed pork dumplings oozing with rich and warm flavor.
10. Milk Tea – Of course, Taiwan is popular with its Milk Tea and people just love it, specially Filipinos, taste the authentic Milk Tea here in Fat Fook and have it included in your take away basket.
Most dishes are serve for 2 people. It would be awesome to dine here specially if you are bringing someone to share the food with. Also, some of their dishes like the Taiwanese Sausage and Chicken Chops are available on their Take-out counter. Remember to also try the different milkshakes, for sure you will love a flavor or two.
