Sushi is just one of the things that everyone loves that I just can’t stand. I don’t like the taste of raw fish at all, and while I do enjoy California rolls, unfortunately I have discovered that I’m allergic to avocadoes (and avocado rolls without avocado isn’t really worth it imho). Fortunately, there’s still a good menu of other food at Japanese restaurants that I do like and can still enjoy: teriyaki, karaage, takoyaki, ramen, etc. Lately, I’ve been craving for some fried Japanese fare, and decided to check out Jiu Jiang. They are a small but tidy Japanese (although the name is Chinese, and at least a few of the staff speak Mandarin) shop located in Kerrisdale, near 41st Avenue. They have a pretty good menu consisting of popular Japanese dishes, both cooked and sushi/sashimi. I had their Takoyaki, Chicken Karaage, and Chicken Teriyaki & Egg Fried Rice.
Takoyaki ($5.25):
3.5/5
The takoyaki had a crispy exterior and was soft and creamy on the inside. I didn’t really get that much ocotopus inside, but that was fine since I don’t really care that much for octopus.
Chicken Karaage ($7.25):
4/5
This was actually more similar to the Taiwanese-style chicken vs. the Japanese style. I was quite impressed by the chicken: the pieces were large, tender and juicy. It was well-seasoned and flavourful, and had a great crispy exterior.
Chicken Teriyaki & Egg Fried Rice ($10.95):
3.5/5
This consisted of fried rice that’s topped with chicken teriyaki. I was a bit disappointed by the chicken to be honest: I found it to be a little anemic and lacking in grilled flavour, and also lacking in teriyaki sauce, although the meat was still seasoned. I really enjoyed their fried rice however, which was very well cooked and well-seasoned/flavourful. It came with a bowl of miso soup, which was just standard.
I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Jiu Jiang. Their food was tasty and very reasonably priced. The service, while not the most personable, was quite attentive and polite. I’d definitely recommend checking this spot out, even if you’re a weirdo like me that doesn’t like sushi.
Summary:
Food: 3.5/5
Price: 4/5
Service: 3.5/5
Overall: 3.5/5
Recommendations: Chicken Karaage, Egg Fried Rice
