Savor the Best of Japanese Delights and Chinese Favorites at The Ryujin Dining

Let's explore the delightful fusion of Japanese and Chinese flavors at Ryujin Dining in Juru Sentral, Bukit Mertajam, Penang. This restaurant offers an intriguing blend of familiar Japanese delights and Chinese cuisine. Whether you are craving Japanese delights or Chinese favorites, Ryujin Dining is worth a visit.

Well, last Wednesday after our usual Pokemon Go Legendary Dinner Raid, my parents, my wife and I had our dinner here. This was not our first visit, and my dad was saying that the Chinese food here taste great the last round we were here. 

We ordered the edamame beans, soft shell crab fried rice, hot and sour seafood soup, scallop thick soup, stir-fry vegetable with prawns and nyonya sea bass from the monthly special menu.

The scallop thick soup’s texture looks thick and inviting, having generous amount of tender scallop pieces that offers a delicate sweetness and succulent bite. The bowl is set on a saucer, both of white porcelain with an elegant design, hinting at a refined dining experience. The hot and sour seafood soup on the other hand is rich, reddish-brown broth promises depth of flavor—a harmonious blend of heat and tanginess. Imagine savoring each spoonful: the warmth of chili peppers dances on your palate, while the tang of vinegar awakens your taste buds. 

The fried rice is well-seasoned, likely with a blend of savory sauces that lend it a glossy, irresistible sheen. Imagine each grain of rice—slightly crispy from frying—carrying the rich flavors of soy, garlic, and perhaps a hint of sesame oil. Now, the pièce de résistance: the soft shell crab. Deep-fried to perfection, its crispy exterior gives way to succulent, briny crab meat within. A sprinkle of chopped green onions adds freshness and a sharp contrast to the overall richness.

Next, we’re in for a treat with the Nyonya-style Sea Bass accompanied by udon noodles. Imagine the tender sea bass mingling with the thick, chewy strands of udon. The curry sauce envelops each noodle, infusing it with warmth and spice. As you lift your chopsticks, the aroma dances—lemongrass, coconut, and a hint of chili. Take a bite: the sea bass flaking apart, the noodles slurping up the flavors. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes, a culinary journey that bridges cultures. 

 

The stir-fry vegetables with prawns is Served hot in a cast-iron skillet with the prawns perfectly seared to a golden hue, nestled amidst crisp-tender okra. The wok sizzles, releasing fragrant aromas. The okra pods, sliced and vibrant green, contribute a delightful crunch. Red bell pepper chunks still add their sweet contrast. All of it bathed in a savory sauce, each bite bursting with umami. 

Final thoughts?? While the Japanese-styled decor might mislead you into thinking it's a Japanese restaurant, the menu tells a different story. Some dishes blend Japanese inspiration with Chinese elements. Although the prices lean toward the higher side, the portions are reasonable. In terms of quality and taste, the food is top-notch and offers great value for money - my dad would wholeheartedly concur.