June
8
2010
By Amy Smithers
When I was a kid, my dad often travelled to Asia on business. It was around this time that we stopped having rice with dinner at home. My dad was riced out; it was nearly all he ate while he was away. Fortunately, most Asian cities now boast much more culinary variety.
While travelling in Beijing a few weeks ago, we discovered a (quite literally) hidden gem called Alameda. Down a curved hutong (back alleyway), inside a bright greenhouse-style building, we found incredible Brazilian-American fusion dishes. The minimalist décor and bright (smog-free) sunshine made us feel a bit like we were having an out of Beijing experience.
We remembered that we weren’t in North America, however, when we saw the prices on the menu; 60 CNY (just under $10 CAD) gets you a three course lunch at Alameda. The midday meal is most definitely the one to visit for.
Begin with a tilapia and mango ceviche, or an artichoke salad—both welcome dishes in the anti-rice movement. Follow this with my recommended main course of choice (if it’s still on the changing menu), the seafood penne. In a country that isn’t big on cheese, those fat curls of Parmesan melt right on the tongue.
Finally, get your chocolate fix (you’ll find that it’s relatively uncommon here, too) with a big slice of chocolate tart. Then lean back and enjoy the sunlight while you wait for the teeny tiny bill.
After a research trip in Southeast Asia, Amy Smithers is now back in Toronto, where she can luckily find just about any type of cuisine she likes. Get in touch with her for more restaurant suggestions, and check out our trip planning website if you're Asia-bound.