Beef
Cho Cho San – Japanese small things and raw things
Friendship was born at Cho Cho San in Potts Point with another food blogger’s catch-up. There were a few pretty colour languages running through my head when I finally had the opportunity to sit with Michael from I’m Still Hungry and The Lady, Yvonne from Caramel Love and Shirley from The Hungry FoodTech. Usual guests always had to include Isaac from iFat, Irene from Irenes Getting Fat, Amy from Milkteaxx and Annie from The Random Foodie. At Cho Cho San expect Japanese cuisine with an interpretation of the Tokyo Izakaya. This newish joint is covered with black polka dots on a cream layout. Bar seatings are available or for larger groups you’re most likely be located to a rounder table.
Cho Cho San, are you ready for us Food Bloggers?!
As you enter Cho Cho San, make sure you turn left.
Sake shower bar
Patiently waiting for the others 🙂
Thrilled to welcome Fried Eggplant Miso ($10) and normally I wouldn’t recommend eggplants to any one because it’s not my thing. But this has got to be the best vegetarian fried dish I’ve ever encountered. The outside coat is golden with a crisp texture and inside, imagine a gooey overflow of warm eggplant waiting for you. The flavours aren’t over yet, when it’s generously sprinkled with sesame seed, chopped spring onions with a small puddle of house made sauce buried underneath the delicious fried eggplant sticks.
Fried Eggplant Miso ($10)
My chopsticks carried away when it first touched the Fried Chicken ($14) because of its juicy succulent chicken hidden inside the batter. There was a light satisfying crunch that is enough for you to the whole bowl away just so you could eat it alone. Just don’t forget that spicy creamy mayo sauce that involves a large portion of wasabi.
Fried Chicken ($14)
When Nicholas Wong exited his kitchen and entered the plating/sushi area, you should have seen Irene’s face, it was gold! Her eyes enlarged and it was glowing. It was as if she won the lottery or something. LOL
Head Chef Nicholas Wong who preciously worked at Billy Kwong, Bodega and Ester.
You’re irresistible Hokkaido Scallops ($18) with corn and house-cured katsuobushi. For some, it wasn’t the most wanted dish on their list, so it’s my duty to eat on their behalf. Tee-hee NE WINNING! The Hokkaido was known for its huge, flavourful scallops. These plump raw scallops were extremely fresh with a tender, sweet and creamy texture. I loved the shaved katsuobushi because one bite combined with the mashed corn enhanced the natural flavours.
Hokkaido Scallops, corn, house-cured katsuobushi ($18)
I just wanted you to know the Tuna ($22) combined with avocado puree and pickled eggplant was incredibly fresh. Massive chunks of cut tuna with sesame seed atop was my highlight in this dish. The smooth green puree matter so much to me tastebuds as well with soy based sauce to dress up.
Tuna, avocado, pickled eggplant ($22)
MY INNER FREAK CAME OUT when the Beef Tataki ($18) arrived. Here’s the thing, looking at it, your stomach might not want it. But when the long super thin slice of beef touches your lip you’d be ready to pounce and get your claws out. Buried underneath the layers of melt in your mouth seared beef tataki was wild rice and ginger dressing. It was quite demanding, even for the foodies who don’t like raw beef. It was tender with the perfect balance of sweet and the beef was indeed good-quality.
Beef Tataki, wild rice, ginger dressing ($18)
Wild rice and ginger hidden underneath the beef tataki.
We were on shuffle mode and next for me was the Pentuna Ocean Trout ($20) with black pepper and wasabi – A simple dish with a rich sauce of soy sauce that is a perfect backdrop.
Pentuna Ocean Trout, black pepper, wasabi ($20)
Head Chef Nicholas Wong impressed us with his skills.
Save your breathe for the Calamari ($16) with lime ponzu – These tentacles was successfully grilled or perhaps marinaded, who knows. It was perfection on a plate and I was hypnotised by the chewiness. You’d be distracted at the first bite with the hit of tanginess.
Calamari, lime ponzu ($16)
We had fun with the Udon noodles ($15) that contains small shreds of pork and chilli. I couldn’t keep up with the level of affection and attention that the other foodies felt. The udon showed its slippery side and it was insanely chewy. I was faced with the patch of whipped tofu that looked like mayo and that was mind-blowing.
Udon noodles, pork, chilli ($15)
And the food porn begins! Photo Credit: I’m Still Hungry.
You’d be stressing if you couldn’t get your hands on King Crab Omelette ($28) with Japanese Curry. This omelette makes a delicious savoury trinity of noticeable pieces of king crab. Better treat yourself to the super crispy edges that can easily snap because it’s so light. The center is unbelievably fluffy with a nice gooey texture. There’s no denying the flavour of the curry, it was heavily included along with chopped shallots. This dish goes so well on its own or even maybe a bowl of plain rice. You MUST MUST MUST order this because you’d go crying out the door if you forgot.
King Crab Omelette, Japanese Curry ($28)
Silken Tofu in Tomato Dashi ($4 Each) was sharp on the tomato taste, although it knew how to mask itself. As for the silken tofu, I’d say it was a tad rough.
Silken Tofu in Tomato Dashi ($4 Each)
You wouldn’t believe this contains tomatoes.
I was capable making love with the Miso Cod ($40) with the flower garden celery and ginger. This grilled cod itself knew how to entertain us with its flavours, although I wasn’t too sure were the ginger was in this dish.
Miso Cod, celery, ginger ($40)
I got my battle scars on my chopsticks after rescuing a piece of Soy glazed Angus beef ($36). It was a struggle to get my second piece. I now know I should never ask “does anyone want the last piece?” because someone always answers “yes”, especially when it’s a gang of foodie bloggers on the same table. The beef was bloody brilliant with a tender outcome. It was A+ for me!
Soy glazed Angus beef ($36)
The beef came with three types of sauce: Mustard, wasabi and chilli powder.
Who would mind having another piece of the Tempura Pumpkin ($12)– It was not a deceptively simple dish because each thick slice of pumpkin was coated in batter and deep fried. It tasted might good! Seriously a favourite thing to eat with a wonderful mixture of flavours and textures.
Tempura Pumpkin ($12)
The Cho Cho Snow ($10) was editable shaved ice that included apple custard. Quite flavoursome with that jelly texture magic happening.
Cho Cho Snow ($10)
After all that, you’d think we’d say no to dessert, hell no. I couldn’t control it any longer because the feelings are to strong when I saw the Banana soft-serve cone ($7 each) with crushed peanut and swirls of caramel. Oh My God…this was freaken smooth and surprisingly not overwhelming sweet, although I really REALLY wanted the green tea, but I instantly forgot about it when this baby was in my hands. As for the waffle cone, I absolutely loved it! Smelt so good as if they were made to order.
Banana soft-serve cone, peanut, caramel ($7 each)
Feeling BANANAS because of you!
It felt electric when I saw the Steamed Yuzu Pudding ($12) even when on top it included a scoop of sour cream. This innocently sweet dessert had a zingy flavour with a spongey texture hidden underneath the glazed sugar.
Steamed Yuzu Pudding ($12)
Till next time food lovers ❤ Photo Credit: I’m Still Hungry.
Overall, Cho Cho San had some incredible dishes, but it was a little bit pricey as well as the portion may seem petite for some. For a table of nine, we had no option but to order seconds for some dishes, so you’re better off going with a group of four. I was glad walking out with a full stomach because it costed roughly $55 per person and we didn’t order any beverages, not even sake. I am still keen to return and perhaps seat at the bar area, so if anyone is interested, let me know.
Cho Cho San’s entrance.
Photos by Vanny Tang
Like to know more about Nessy Eater food adventures?
You can follow Nessy Eater on Instagram / Facebook / Twitter or feel free to leave a YUMMY comment 😀
Share this:
Ferry Nice to be at Papi Chulo
Located right on the Manly Wharf, Papi Chulo will change the way you think about barbeque and meat. This place is not your usual American smokehouse as it intertwines with Brazilian and Latin American. Their menu is fantastic for the meat lovers and if you have any intention on ordering the entire menu, go ahead! However it’s best to bring at least seven foodie mates along, well at least we did. Ok, it felt right to organise another food blogger’s event with the opportunity to overlook Manly Wharf during the day.
Finally made it to Papi Chulo’s in 30 minutes flat from Circular Quay wharf.
Here at Papi Chulo the view is fabulous.
The only time you’ll notice me sitting in silence is when the Smoked wagyu brisket (300 gm) ($34) arrives. It’s too damn delicious and has abundant marbling that moistens the meat from the inside. Be sure to taste the natural smoked juices and yes you’ll know there is a difference. Reality is that their wagyu servings has limited availability for seven people but overall they were mighty good.
Smoked wagyu brisket (300 gm) ($34)
Just look at the brisket closely, it’s so hypnotising.
My eyes were also interested in the Smoked hot wings ($16) with comeback sauce. I must confess, I ate three out of nine. It was so hard to stop grabbing the entire bowl of mid-wings for myself because they were the most popular appetisers on the table. Let’s face it- the wings are crisped and create the perfect combination of smoked madness. It’s really wings that everyone will love.
Smoked hot wings ($16)
Curly fries ($9) tasted heavily on the tongue, but I personally liked it best when it’s bathed in the creamy spicy comeback sauce. They are somewhat twirly, if you dive your fingers into the basket and there’s so much fun when dunked into the sauce.
Curly fries ($9)
Although I didn’t have the opportunity to try Irene’s Zalamero smoothie ($8) because well her blog name already says it all (Irene’s Getting Fat). I can already imagine this tropical shake to be constant with creamy coconut milk and fresh passionfruit and mango sorbet. To confirm, you’ll have to ask Irene. Haha!
Zalamero smoothie ($8)
Love a bit of pea-NUTS in your beverage? Then the El Mani ($8) will probably be the best nutty treat everyone will love. Sorry to the peeps who are allergic to peanuts, you’re really missing out with rich peanut butter that is super thick and creamy, finished with Pringle shaped chocolate chips containing nuts, off course.
El Mani ($8)
So awesome to witness what Papi Chulo was cooking.
We were all in desperate need for some more protein so we had to order their signature dish, Papi Chulo BBQ platter (serves 2-4) ($86) – I don’t think there is a marriage more perfect than the one that exists between half rack lamb ribs, 150gm each of sliced wagyu brisket, chopped spicy pork and sliced pork belly . Another glorious fact is that they serve it along with a bowl of colourful pickles and super soft bread. I must say it does look tremendous on the camera. They key to devouring this platter is that there is no key. You’ll be in a race amongst six foodies to fight for the caramelised tender pork belly, smoky barbecue lamb ribs, shredded pork that is well marinated and slices of more wagyu brisket. All the meat falls apart so easily and does create a perfect intense pit barbeque flavour. As for the bread rolls, I ate three. In all seriousness, their rolls are well made with that fluffiness texture. I can guarantee that they won’t last long once served to the table.
Papi Chulo BBQ platter (serves 2-4) ($86)
Colourful sides of vegetable pickles
We know the main attraction here is the barbecue meet, so I guess the “Sloppy Joe” ($18) wasn’t a star at our table. Containing pulled kurobuta pork, pit beans, jalapeño, nacho cheese on two soft buns. You’ll be loving this if they didn’t serve Papi Chulo BBQ platter.
“Sloppy Joe” ($18)
What’s next Chef?
Arriving fashionably late, Amy from milkteaxx orders Papi Chulo burger ($18) With grain fed beef, bacon, American cheese, tomato, lettuce, pickles and hugged by two honey- coloured soft buns. Seeing Amy’s hungry reaction, I think you’ll really enjoyed it.
Papi Chulo burger ($18)
I don’t think the #FoodiesatManly were going to just leave without ordering the entire dessert menu. Look who we have here, Banana Split ($14) with fresh split banana, chocolate fudge, peanut praline, banana ice cream, peanut butter ice cream, and cherry jam, whipped cream and glace cherry. A bit too ordinary, but we managed to finish it. I was expecting something extreme, for example maybe 100s of 1000s? Or maybe dressing it up with almond flakes and light sparkles? Yeah, I know…a bit extreme 😛
Banana Split ($14)
There is something special about the Warm chocolate chip cookie ($14). I don’t know if it’s the scoop of vanilla malt ice-cream or the drizzling butterscotch sauce or maybe it’s the crumply macadamia brittle. But this famous classic American cookie is warm and chewy and goes so well with a glass of cold milk.
Warm chocolate chip cookie ($14)
I thoroughly enjoyed the Pear and rhubarb cobbler ($14) with ginger crumble, crème anglaise, orange and ginger ice-cream. Can you smell the smallish chunks of fresh pear and rhubarb? It certainly had my attention with the perfect combination of flavours. The ginger crumble and ginger ice-cream kept multiplying with its own textures.
Pear and rhubarb cobbler ($14)
Papi Chulo is a great place to relax and enjoy the lovely bright casual atmosphere. It’s not hard to see why this restaurant is obscenely popular. Hospitality here makes it more welcoming place for everyone. I highly recommend you to catch the Sydney Ferries at Circular Quay because it’s difficult getting to Manly by car if you are not familiar with the area. As a bonus, you get to see the amazing Harbour Bridge and water views.
Catch the Sydney Ferries to visit Papi Chulo.
Photos by Vanny Tang
Like to know more about Nessy Eater food adventures?
You can follow Nessy Eater on Instagram / Facebook / Twitter or feel free to leave a YUMMY comment 😀
Share this:
Pho Pasteur- National Dish of Vietnam
Popping by to window shop at Parramatta Westfield I decided to ring up my all time favorite shopping and eating buddy, Ms. Boobie Trap. It was such a relief that we came across Pho Pasteur as we were trying to avoid the shopping mall so our wallets won’t be too empty at the end of the day. 
Most Vietnamese restaurants serve phở Sài Gòn with every meals that is ordered. Typically this dish is complimentary with any main dish you order. Garnished with fresh crisp ingredients like lemon wedge, chopped chili, Thai basil that has a distinctive flavour of mint and nutritious bean sprouts. 
We really appreciated the generous serving of the Special Beef Noodle Soup includes beef and offal ($12.00 large) also known as phở. The silky smooth white rice noodles kept appearing over and over again like it was non-stop. Pho is primarily served with thick slices of beef, apparently between uncooked to cooked. This depends how long you prefer to soak your juicy tender beef. For example if you want it to be fully cooked, bathe it till you cannot see any pinkish colour. They were quite heavy on decorating the bowl with white onion strips, which adds more flavours to the broth. For beef pho, the broth is cooked with beef bones, charred onions and spices. The flavour and texture of the soup was enjoyable to sip.
For a scorching hot weather the Chè also known as Three Colour Bean Drink ($4.50) is a fun chilling dessert drink that is commonly made with yellow mung beans, kidney beans, red beans, clear agar worm strips, creamy coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk atop crushed ice. Truly a classic Vietnamese sweet beverage you’d find in almost every table. What I love about this playful drink is creating a mess within the tall glass cup. Every swirl you make with a shiny metal spoon or a plastic straw you are creating a new flavour.
Coconut Drink ($4) has long been a trendy drink for the Vietnamese and it was our duty to order it. So so SWEET! 
Even though our visit to Pho Pasteur was short and we didn’t order any other dishes, we quite liked the noodle soup due to the portion size and the flavour of the broth. And if you plan to save room for dessert but not sure if you can then the Three Colour Bean Drink is the solution. Teehee.
Like to know more about Nessy Eater food adventures? You can follow Nessy Eater on Instagram / Facebook / Twitter or feel free to leave a YUMMY comment 🙂
Share this:
Soban Korean Cuisine, Chatswood Westfield
If you come across muddled oversized wooden walls in Westfield Chatswood then you have landed at Soban Korean Cuisine (Shop 602 Level 6 (Cinema Level) Westfield Shopping Center Sydney, NSW 2067). The entrance is large and enormous and is connected with another restaurant Towon Chinese Cuisine that serves a different blend of cuisine, Chinese.
After the waiter jotted down our orders we were served complementary banchan in 6 individual appetiser bowls! The joy of taste testing each and every dish is like entering a land of deliciousness. A combination of Sour Cabbage, Kimchi that is fermented cabbage, Pasta Salad served in mayonnaise dressing, Odeng Bokum- stir fried fish cake quite tasty and a hint of sweetness, Dooboo Jorim- braised tofu very delicious and Manulchongjim- seasoned garlic stems a bit spicy. Also salt was provided.
It’s never easy selecting one favourite dish though, but the braised tofu (Dooboo Jorim) drenched in soy sauce was indeed my top pick because it was it was flavoursome!
Kalguksu has long been one of the mainstay dishes served in the Korean home and is traditionally considered seasonal food therefore it was essential to order Beef Kalguksu ($11.90) a house speciality. It has the noodles arranged over shredded braised beef, strips of egg, chopped spring onion, garnished with a slice of chilli. The broth is made from beef bones which is heart warming for the winter season in Sydney.
Another classic winter dish is Samgyetang ($25) also known as chicken ginseng soup or in Cantonese ‘Yun Sum Gai Tong’, is an inspirational soup based dish. It consists of a whole chicken stuffed with black rice and off course Korean ginseng and strips of egg to decorate. The chicken broth soup was addictive, you can really taste the ginseng enriching it’s flavours and taste unlike any other place. It’s usually the chicken broth that takes over the ginseng flavour and they were very openhanded to give 3 huge pieces of ginseng! Most places only give one tiny piece which you can barely see with a chopstick.
Photos by Vanny Tang
If you’re ever feeling blue, apparently chicken ginseng soup does help fight common sickness for example cold or flu. So you know where to head to if you have to battle it out with the cold and flu.
Can’t wait to taste more of their traditional Korean dishes on my next visit!
Nessy Eater 