Fukumannen

For diners craving Chinese fare defined by bold heat and fragrance, the Sichuan mapo tofu at Fukumannen is a solid choice. Abundant minced meat meets the fiery kick of chili peppers, followed by the slow, numbing buzz of Sichuan pepper tingling on the tongue. Portions are generous, making it equally satisfying to alternate mouthfuls with plain white rice or savor it slowly as a drinking snack.

Those looking for a drink before the main course can pair their beverage with plump, juicy pan-fried gyoza or savory salted chicken gizzards. Seasoning them simply with vinegar and mustard keeps things casual in classic neighborhood Chinese diner fashion. The kitchen also turns out chili-laced sweet-and-spicy prawns alongside various meat-and-vegetable stir-fries like chinjao rosu (shredded beef and bell peppers), adding plenty of variety to a weeknight dinner or evening drinks.

At lunchtime, set meals and noodle combos served with soup, pickles, and almond tofu come in handy. The stir-fried pork, wood ear mushroom, and egg set arrives with a gentle soup featuring seaweed and enoki mushrooms, along with spicy pickles that round out the meal nicely. On the noodle side, lighter options such as prawn noodles in a clear, salted broth showcase plump shrimp without heavy grease. A small cup of coffee is sometimes served after the meal, offering a pleasant pause before stepping out.