KEN HUNTS FOOD: Kai Curry Bar @ Phuah Hin Leong, Pulau Tikus, Penang.

Wednesday, May 13, 2015

Kai Curry Bar @ Phuah Hin Leong, Pulau Tikus, Penang.

Ardent fans of Japanese Curry should try Kai Curry Bar's proud creations, the Japanese Curry specialist serves more than just the conventional Japanese Curry Rice, but Japanese Curry Udon and Croquettes as well. Many would drive past the old rustic facade of Kai Curry Bar at Jalan Phuah Hin Leong, not knowing that the place serves interesting eats. Step in and you will be enveloped by a warm and homely atmosphere, with some simple decorations adorning the walls. Menu is straight-forward but it comes with many different combinations. While most of them are Curry dishes, diners get to choose between Rice and Udon (Japanese Wheat Flour Noodles); of course, Croquettes as side dishes as well. A point to note is that Kai Curry Bar is a vegetarian-friendly restaurant; vegetarian choices are available on the menu, including the Curry sauce.

While we thought Japanese Curry Rice may be a little mainstream, we decided to go for their Chicken Katsu Curry Udon (Rm 18.90). Diners may choose for either Pork Curry or Vegetarian Curry to go with the Udon; we had the former one. Bits of Pork can be seen around the bowl. I was asked if I wanted an "upgrade", at the cost of Rm 1, for a better quality Udon (claimed). I did not find the Udon stand out, more or less the same stuff that we can find elsewhere but they were carefully cooked to the right texture- not slouchy. The Japanese Curry, on the other hand, was leaning towards the salty side. The salinity was immediately discerned at first bite, though at acceptable range, I thought they could do better with this. The Curry has the quintessential yet unique aroma, not as thick as expected but good enough to cling on the noodles.

The Chicken Katsu served together with the Udon was beyond amazing. The Chicken Katsu was deep fried till perfection, carrying golden brown hue. We were pleasantly surprised by the shattering crisp, the Chicken was pleasingly firm but not hard to the bite. The ratio of batter/ bread-crumb to meat was precisely calibrated. Extra marks awarded to them for not incorporating the skin (not too thick enough to be discerned if any). If I were to come back, it will be because of their Chicken Katsu.

Salmon Cream Croquettes (Rm 3.50 for two balls) served with Pineapple confiture and a sweet berry-like jam. The soft, creamy filling with Salmon fish flakes was encased in a crispy, crunchy layer, filled with bread crumbs. It was good as side; if you so wish, you may enjoy your Croquettes with the dip which introduces a zingy refreshing touch to the bread crumbed roll.