CloverEats: Chao Chao in New Haven
Taiwanese Beef Noodle – braised beef shank, pickled cabbage
Chao Chao (or is it House of Chao? Chao Restaurant and Wine Bar?) is a surprising authentic restaurant in an unexpectedly moody setting. It’s dark and sophisticated, and feels almost like an archive or basement, suited more to a speakeasy than a Chinese restaurant. Also, I’m not sure what makes this a wine bar, as we were offered neither a cocktail menu nor a wine list, although granted it was still early in the day. Service was again surprisingly top-notch, with speedy and attentive waiters and a manager who spoke Chinese. There’s even a menu in Mandarin, that’s how you know it’s legit. I got the Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup, recommended by our waiter as one of the most popular dishes on the menu. The beef and pickled cabbage were fantastic, but I wish the noodles were a little thicker and more flavorful. Fred got the Three Cup Chicken, which while I thought was delicious and smoky and savory, he found too fatty. We got a great side of house kimchi too. I’d definitely come back for the great food in an unexpected but lovely atmosphere. Check them out on Yelp or at their website!
Three Cup Chicken Casserole – Taiwanese Coq au Vin
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You know I haven’t had chao chao in a very long time. I think I may take a drive down there and check this place out. thank you!
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