Living in China full time, leaves one hankering for some alternative cuisine on occasion. Most coffee shops (code word for western restaurant) serve up a Chinese version of western recipes, however you would never mistake it for what mama used to make.

The Ba Chaia restaurant is a favorite spot for some tasty Japanese food. Located adjacent to the biggest hotel in the city (also one of the tallest buildings, it’s very easy to find. Constructed on two levels the first floor is reserved for private dining rooms, while the upper is a traditional open restaurant seating. As one of the few non Chinese restaurants in the city I have dined here on several occasions. I usually settle for the Tempura chicken or the excellent beef bento box meal. Qing Zhen likes to enjoy the caviar crusted sushi rolls. On this wintery January morning we decide to go for the Hot Pot dinner. Continue reading »