Jackfruit Rendang & Rice made with jackfruit caramelized in coconut spice paste, coconut pandan rice, sambal belacan, fried shallots, peanuts, and cucumbers
Tauhu Goreng Sandwich made with fried Hodo tofu, spicy peanut assam sauce, makrut lime leaf, Thai chili mayo, cilantro, shallots, and cucumbers on a coconut turmeric brioche bun
Sesame & Chicory Salad made with Little Gem lettuce, radish, shiso, sesame and Sichuan peppercorn dressing, ginger-infused fried soybeans, and shaobing croutons
Prawnless Chips
I stopped by Lion Dance Cafe for the first time a few weeks ago with my friend Moriah VanVleet of the dessert blog, butter, sugar, flowers, upon her recommendation. I never heard of this vegan Singaporean restaurant, located on 17th and Franklin in Uptown Oakland, before she mentioned it.
We ordered a few dishes to share: the Jackfruit Rendang & Rice, Tauhu Goreng Sandwich with Prawnless Chips, and Sesame & Chicory Salad. Traditionally featuring beef, the Jackfruit Rendang had jackfruit caramelized in coconut spice paste, coconut pandan rice, sambal belacan, fried shallots, peanuts, and cucumber. The Tauhu Goreng Sandwich came with a huge piece of tofu covered in a spicy peanut assam sauce and served with makrut lime leaf, pickled Thai chili mayo, cilantro, shallot, and cucumber on a coconut turmeric brioche bun. Both dishes can be characterized by their dynamic flavors, ones I've never had before.
The Sesame & Chicory Salad—made with Little Gem lettuce, radish, shiso, sesame and Sichuan peppercorn dressing, ginger-infused fried soybeans, and shaobing croutons—had a great crunchy texture and bitterness I liked. The tofu sandwich was served with Prawnless Chips that were airy and fun to eat. Overall, this was an experience for the books. I don't believe I've had Singaporean food before and was surprised to learn after the meal that the cafe is vegan.
Since they're only open for pick-up now, I'd recommend enjoying your meal a few blocks away on the grass by Lake Merritt. If you've visited Lion Dance Cafe before, what do you recommend trying?
Lion Dance Cafe
380 17th St., Oakland, CA 94612
Open: Wednesday - Saturday 5pm - 8:30pm
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