Shabu-shabu is like a Jacuzzi for food. Thinly sliced meat
poaches with tofu, mushrooms and vegetables amongst a flavoured broth; it’s an
easy-going dining method, putting you at ease. Derived from the Chinese hot-pot
style of cooking, it somehow seems less frenzied – perhaps it’s due to a
smaller menu or the soup steaming on a low boil rather than a feverish bubbling.
Situated in Japan Town, Shabusen’s location puts you in the
mood: while glancing outside a five story pagoda graces the skylight. Their
lunch menu is affordable and filling, my friend and I sharing the regular beef
($14.99), small pork ($11.99) and a side of ramen ($3.50). With two people,
they also offer a split pot so you can sample the dashi and spicy broth – the spicy
being my favourite.
The meat is shaved to order, arriving a glorious hue of red
and pink. They’re tissue paper thin and simply takes a few swishes in the soup
to be edible. Both had enough marbling to be flavourful without being overly
chewy.
Each person also receives a dinner plate filled with vegetables
(napa cabbage, carrots, green onions), cubes of tofu, rehydrated shitake mushrooms,
and bites of bean curd thread & udon. The portion was already substantial
enough to be filling, but the extra ramen is the key to enjoying the broth
after the essence of all the other ingredients melded into it.
The broth needed more salt as it was very plain on its own. Shabusen
does provide a large bowl of ponzu (a
lemony soy sauce) and goma (a silky
sesame sauce) for dipping, with chilies and garlic paste at the table to add
further flavour. Although great for seasoning the meats and vegetables, when it
comes to the noodles I just want to enjoy it with leftover broth, so it’s lack
of saltiness made for a disappointing last bite.
As a warning, like a Jacuzzi, it can get hot eating amongst
the steaming pot. So, ask to switch tables if you’re seated in the sun – a mistake
we didn’t realize until later in the meal. Additionally, ensure you give
yourself enough time to enjoy the experience; it’s supposed to take time … so,
just lie back and relax.
Overall mark - 7.5 out of 10
How To Find Them
Location: San Francisco, USA
Address: 1725 Buchanan Street
Address: 1725 Buchanan Street
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Gastro World's Grading System
- Anything under 5 - I really disliked and will never go back
- 6 - decent restaurant but I likely won't return
- 7 - decent restaurant and I will likely return
- 8 - great restaurant that I'd be happy to recommend
- 9 - fantastic restaurant that I would love to visit regularly and highly recommend
- 10 - absolute perfection!
Is That It? I Want More!
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