Aji-ichi

At 中華 味一 目黒, the signature dish is pork-back-fat fried rice: fragrant, freshly fried rice topped with soft pork back fat. Try a bite before mixing in the fat, and the fried rice's distinct, fluffy grains and savoury flavour come through clearly. Working in the pork fat a little at a time adds a mellow sweetness and deep richness, giving the dish a bolder character. Variations topped with extra meat or spicy spring onion are also available for a more substantial meal.

Vegetable-Packed Tanmen and Dumplings with Chewy, Thick Wrappers

Alongside the fried rice, another mainstay is tanmen, a soup loaded with vegetables in a broth made flavourful with jidori chicken. Crisp-tender vegetables and thin noodles make a pleasing combination, with options ranging from medium- and extra-hot versions to garlic- or ginger-accented bowls and extra-thick noodles. For a side dish, the pan-fried dumplings feature thick, chewy wrappers enclosing a meat and vegetable filling, cooked until crisp and fragrant. Smooth boiled dumplings are also on offer, making a satisfying accompaniment to noodles or fried rice.

From Lunch Sets to Evening Small Plates: A Neighbourhood Chinese Diner

At lunchtime, set meals pairing tanmen or ramen with a half-portion of fried rice or with dumplings make it easy to enjoy a hearty meal even when dining alone. In the evening, a variety of affordable small plates such as century egg, seasoned menma bamboo shoots and cold jellyfish let diners unwind over beer and other drinks. Payment inside the restaurant is cash only, so having cash ready before visiting is recommended.