One Sunday, a group of friends jio to go eat Teochew Porridge. I never say no to good food. Lol… But its all the way to Jurong East at 1130am on Sunday! Heng we drive…
Jurong East was where I grew up, my weekends and holiday staycations at my grandma’s place just opposite where we supposed to have lunch and yet I never dined here before. Perhaps I had but was too young to remember, at least 25-30 years ago…
Zai Shun Curry Fish Head as the name suggests is not only great at their curry fish head but is definitely more well-known for their fresh steamed fishes, zi char dishes and teochew porridge! Despite being 1130am, the coffeeshop which is theirs solely with only 1 stall is full and crowded with people waiting in line! And our friend actually called to book in advance cos of this very particular fish “忘不了”, a very prized fish – The Empurau (tor tambroides) aka Malayan Mahseer aka Kelah. The friend joked: “You sure will not forget it once you eat it! At least the price!!!” Lol…
Service was brisk. The fish was delish! Its almost milky and sweet. Being a freshwater fish, its doesnt have the soil taste. My hub say cos this fish doesn’t stay in the pond thats why! The best part are the scales. They actually serve you the scales – deep fried!!! With some seasoning and curry leaves. Its almost like a yummy cracker on its own! I think I finish almost the whole plate. Minus the freshness of the fish, the cantonese style seasoning was on point.
Their other signature dishes includes the “hae zo” aka prawn roll, herbal chicken, bitter melon egg… All are pretty good. But I will prefer the “hae zo” to be abit less minced. But overall all dishes are pretty good. But I guess you go there for their fresh steam fishes!!!
That “忘不了” fish is really unforgettable… Cos its really expensive!!! Almost $200+ for that 1 fish! We split the fish, half at each table. So the pic shows only half of the fish. Will I eat it again, nah… The other fishes they have are pretty normal pricing and are just as fresh and good (see the next few pics, yup went there twice in 2 weeks). Though a tad special but I will prefer a good cod. Moreover, I think a good fresh fish is all that matters for me. 1st visit with expensive fish was almost $60 per pax. 2nd visit was just about $18 (both 8pax). Definitely worth the visit.
Remember to call and book a few days in advance if u wanna try the prized Empurau!
Zai Shun Curry Fishhead
253 Jurong East St 24
#01-205 S600253
Opens Thu – Tue (7am – 3pm)
Close Wed