Fukuzumi

Congee is at the heart of lunch at Fukuzumi, where diners can choose a set with the daily special or fried chicken, or opt for crispy fried noodles or dan dan noodles. The sets also include items such as a chilled appetiser and almond tofu.

One diner who often orders the fried chicken set singles out its crisp exterior, juicy centre and generous portion. The golden sesame congee served that day was relatively light, they report, and could be seasoned to taste with the accompanying pickles. The fried-noodle set also comes with congee, making it a way to include a bowl alongside the crispy noodles and their generous topping.

A diner who tried the daily set with golden sesame congee and stir-fried squid describes colourful vegetables and careful seasoning that was neither too strong nor too mild. The congee selection ranges from fragrant golden sesame to seafood, sixteen-grain, yuba and soy milk, and oyster miso. A seafood bowl packed with ingredients or congee made with oyster miso from the Seto Inland Sea offers an alternative to plain rice porridge.

Chinese tea is another option to enjoy with or after a meal. The selection includes pouchong, described as refreshing; Shui Xian, known for its fragrant, toasty aroma; and flowering tea, whose blossoms open in the pot. Taking time to choose a tea can be part of the meal too.