A Sichuan feast at Fulu Mandarijn
By Frank Dekker
Rokin 26, 1012 KS Amsterdam, Netherlands
BOOK NOWAnthony Bourdain once said, “Aspirin, cold Coca-Cola, smoke a joint, eat some spicy Sichuan food — the best hangover cure that works every time.” While I can’t confirm trying that remedy, I can definitely vouch for Sichuan cuisine’s effectiveness. Whether I’m alone or sharing sugar-coated walnuts and dumplings, followed by spicy sliced pork ear, as my companions order dishes like dry-fried chicken with dry red chilli peppers and mapo tofu, it’s always good.
A visit to Fulu is a guaranteed festive dining experience, which I affectionately call the Fulu Feast. The dishes arrive with flair, the creativity and design of plates, bowls, and pots giving me a rush of excitement. The refined presentation, combined with the kick of classic boiled beef tenderloin immersed in hot chili sauce and topped with dry red chili peppers, sparks pure joy and excitement, time and again.
To balance out the spicy and numbing sensations, homemade plum juice offers soothing refreshment, a remedy I can confirm works consistently.
The rounded wooden dining tables play a key role in the Sichuan culinary celebration. According to Feng Shui, these tables facilitate playful and memorable moments, where conversations flow freely and taste buds experience a delightful rollercoaster of spicy, sweet, and sour combinations.
For me, nothing compares to Fulu in Amsterdam (at least as far as I know). Though I’m not a dedicated cocktail enthusiast, today marks the day my old companion, TsingTao Beer, steps aside for the enigmatic “Forbidden Tales” cocktail. Unfortunately, I can’t divulge more details for now. But, this only adds to the intrigue and gives you all the more reason to explore it firsthand.
The menu offers a rich selection, from the Fire Dragon to the classic Old Fashioned, complemented by locally brewed beers. Dessert options are intentionally limited, catering perfectly to my taste: ice creams, jelly, or sweet pumpkin cake.
Let me conclude today’s piece with a quote, not from Mr. Bourdain, but from George Bernard Shaw: “There is no sincerer love than the love of food.” To me, Fulu embodies that love!
Fulu Mandarijn
The Place: Forget Amsterdam for a little while and transit to Sichuan province.
The Space: Modern with the traditional glamour of Chinese design. Round tables for the whole family and friends but you can find a spot for two just as easily.
The Base: €60-80 for the full experience.
The Face: Spicy adventurers and lively team dinners, and our cherished (local) families.
The Ace: A full flavour experience like nowhere else in The Dam.
The Veg: Plenty of bountiful options!
Opening Hours: Tues-Sun 11:30 –22:00, Fri-Sat-11:30–22:30
Images from fulumandarijn.com, ©Fulu Mandarijn
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