Fusho Shuka
Tokyoites find their version of Chinatown in bustling Ikebukuro

Photos Courtesy of Pixy

When we found that fine Chinese eatery Fusho Shuka is located in Ikebukuro, we were not sure what to expect. Maybe because we used to watch the famous Japanese TV series Ikebukuro West Gate Park, in which thuggish youngsters with bleached blonde hair hustled on the street—that was the image of the ’bukuro hood we had in our heads. Once we stepped off the Yamanote line, though, we felt a bit let down to discover not the rough neighborhood we imagined, but a lively town crowded with normal-looking youth just like in other parts of Tokyo.

After a short walk from the station, we found Fusho Shuka, just next to a pachinko parlor. The setting comically contradicted the restaurant’s tagline: “Trendy Asian dining for grownups.” The moment we walked in, we realized that the decor was different from our standard of luxury. Black-and-white furnishings with red lanterns and a gaudy chandelier made a clear statement that the venue is trying to foster, but it struck us as more of a casual and funky kind of place.

The menu consists of Chinese dishes that the Japanese love, like mabo dofu (¥840) and beef and vegetable stir-fry with oyster sauce (¥1,000). Fusho Shuka also offers course meals, including ones with all-you-can-drink specials (¥6,000 and up). Although the nomihodai deal was tempting, we decided to opt for a booze-free night, since it was Tuesday. Instead, we wanted something healthy and nutritious, so we ordered a special ladies course (¥5,250 per person) with premium jasmine tea (¥500). Yes, we’re pretty secure about our masculinity.

The meal started out with a plate of steamed vegetables and pickles, along with simmered abalone and reishi mushroom, which is known as an immunity-booster in traditional Chinese medicine. After the appetizers came shark fin soup and Peking duck that was wrapped in, oddly enough, mochi. Our friendly waitress told us that the soup contains pearl powder, which gives a healthy glow and clear complexion. We found the mochi-wrapped duck pretty amusing, but the salty meat made a surprisingly great match with chewy rice. Then came our favorite dish of the night: fried shrimp with fruit tomatoes. The shrimp is coated with tempura-like batter and served with a mayonnaise-based sauce, which melted nicely on the tongue.

By this time, we had a severe craving for rice, the staple food for any Asian dining, and as if the waitress read our minds, a bowl of vegetable porridge appeared on the table. Well, it was close enough to what we wanted. We finished the course with almond pudding while indulging in one last cup of fragrant jasmine tea.

Overall, we enjoyed our meal at Fusho Shuka. Even if we wouldn’t call it a place for fine dining, it’s a casual eatery with cool and funky décor, perfect for partying with friends and coworkers. Actually, the basement eatery was crowded with happy Japanese salarymen whose faces had the rosy Asian glow that means they were having a good time.

1-12-15 Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku. Tel: 03-5952-6858. Open Mon-Fri 11:30am-3:30pm and 5:30-11:30pm, Sat-Sun and hols 11:30am-11pm. Menu in Japanese. Nearest stn: Ikebukuro. www.fusyosyuka.com

Got something to say about this article? Send a letter to the editor at letters@metropolis.co.jp.

Listen to the Metropolis Podcast, the coolest guide to what goes on this week in Tokyo.

Looking for international friends? Check Japan, Inc. Friends now - it's 100% free!