Whether its a cheap lunch alternative or an authentic dinner bento, Jun is a venue not to be missed. Its large clientele of Japanese during lunch hours especially is clear indication that this basement diner is doing something right.
This lunch we ordered several of their punch specials which includes the usual suspects Chicken Karaage, Chicken Katsu and another Chicken dish called the Tatsuta-age. These chicken dishes are comparable to your suburban Japanese takeaway but in massive proportions.
The Chicken Tatsuta-Age
The Chicken Kara-age
Confused about between a Kara-age and Tatsuta-age? They are both fried chicken right? So I thought! But no worries Google the source of know-it-all tells me that, the Kara-age does not necessarily need to be marinaded but the Tatsuta-age always is! More importantly, Tatsuta-age uses a tapioca starch instead of the wheat flour used by Kara-age. This results in a more crunchy slightly chewy fried batter that is very similar to that of the Taiwanese XXL Fried Chicken. Hope that helps!
The Chicken Katsu
Most people prefer would rather pay an extra $3 premium for Jun than dine at Taka during lunch, and there are legit reasons for that. This includes Jun spending more time and love in the preparation of their food, and top class Kara-age. If you come in at night, expect to be treated to some tender braised soy pork belly and amazing skewered meats. During lunch that day, the only thing that did not really deliver was the Chicken Katsu and the rice as it was a little wetter than I would have liked it to be! The Chicken Katsu on the other hand had a batter that way too thick! It felt way over the top. But for those who had the Kara-age or the Tatsuta-age, it was all good :)! Note, come early and sit first! Late comers wait longer and it reduces the pleasure of dining at Jun.
Regards,
WenY
