Cultural discovery through Lu Rou Fan

Lu Rou Fan opened a door into a cuisine I'd previously known almost nothing about. The umami-rich flavours are unlike anything in my usual rotation and I mean that positively. bubble tea was invented in Taiwan and exported globally as one of the most influential food trends of recent decades. Understanding that context made the dish taste different — richer with meaning.

I learned that basil is central to this cuisine's character, not just a seasoning. The a traditional beef noodle restaurant setting was authentic and helpful for understanding what I was eating. Taiwanese lager completed the picture. A genuinely educational meal.