China’s charcoal clay stove barbecue Xita Lao Tai Tai opens first SEA outlet at Bugis+
We’ve got exciting news for all BBQ fans: China’s No. 1 charcoal clay stove barbecue chain Xita Lao Tai Tai has made its international debut in Singapore!
This barbecue powerhouse is famous for its juicy, charcoal-grilled meats and one-of-a-kind Korean-Chinese barbecue style.
At present, it boasts more than 600 branches across China.
Started by the 80-something Lee Lian Hua, Xita Lao Tai Tai (“old lady of Xita” in Chinese) began as a pushcart more than 20 years ago in Shenyang’s Xita district in China — a region that’s home to the Korean-Chinese community (朝鲜族).
Though Xita Lao Tai Tai has since evolved into a brick-and-mortar restaurant, the Korean-Chinese fusion fare draws on its humble beginnings and its founder’s heritage.
We hear Lian Hua still continues to experiment new flavours and whip up dishes up till today.
Here, the stove isn’t quite like the ones at most barbecue joints around town. Xita Lao Tai Tai’s clay stoves are a nod to Shenyang’s time-honoured traditions and are typically used during China’s harsh winters.
It traps and holds heat exceptionally well, which enhances the grilling process — yielding tender meats coated with a well-tempered smoky aroma.
Upon entering, you’ll be greeted with earnest hospitality, in the form of a resounding welcome from the staff. And, likewise, a warm farewell on your way out.
Just like with any K-BBQ meal, our table groaned under an array of free-flow side dishes, such as kimchi, potato salad, pickled vegetables, lettuce, and even more.
A unique condiment that Xita Lao Tai Tai swears by is its signature sesame sauce that brings together 10 different ingredients, and an option to top it all off with a garnish of spring onions and coriander.
Just picture a souped-up version of the oft-used sesame sauce — Xita jazzes up this classic dip with vinegar and soy sauce. Dip your meats in here to cut through the usual greasiness that comes with every barbecue meal.
In particular, we were recommended to enjoy this with the Xita fatty beef short plate, Xita speciality sliced beef chuck, and special marinated beef rib finger.
A meat lover’s dream
But enough of the supporting cast: Let’s move onto the showstoppers — Xita’s freshly cut meat and 28 unique, housemade marinades.
The Xita speciality beef chuck (150g for S$30.90) was irresistibly flavourful. It had me hooked on its succulent texture and mildly smoky notes, once lightly grilled on the coals.
And among the selection of beef cuts we had, this was — hands-down — my favourite!
An interesting item is the pineapple glazed beef rib finger (150g for S$34.90) that features strips of meat from between the rib bones and pineapple slices.
All of the bones have been removed, so that you can thoroughly enjoy it without getting your hands oily.
The meat has a delightful chewy bite and still retains its oh-so-juicy texture after grilling. Meanwhile, the pineapple adds a nice sweet-and-tangy finish.
In true K-BBQ style, we had it like a ssam — lettuce wrap with K-BBQ dipping sauce and side dishes — it was simply *chef’s kiss*.
For the non-beef eaters, don’t sleep on the classic thick-cut pork belly (150g for S$28.90) that’s rendered over low heat.
The end result? Luscious pork belly with a well-caramelised exterior.
Of course, there’s a good variety of mains and sides to enjoy the meat with.
The cold buckwheat noodle (S$16.90) is Xita Lao Tai Tai’s take on the Korean naengmyeon — its refreshing and slightly zesty broth is perfect for washing all the proteins down.
For something less carb-heavy, there’s the cold dressed chicken (S$12.90) that’s a riff off Sichuan’s popular “saliva chicken”, and lady finger with pickled chilli (S$9.90).
If you’re looking for a barbecue spot with immaculately tender meat and caring service, this is the place to be at!
This was an invited tasting.
For the latest eats, read more about Sabah-style fried pork noodles specialist at Hong Lim Market & Food Centre and Shio & Sato’s limited-time pop-up.
Enjoy up to 50% off when you dine with GrabFood Dine Out.
You can also book a ride to Xita Lao Tai Tai to try its charcoal-grilled meats.
Xita Lao Tai Tai
Bugis+, 04-06, 201 Victoria Street
Nearest MRT: Bugis
Open: Monday to Sunday (12pm to 3pm, 5pm to 10pm)
Bugis+, 04-06, 201 Victoria Street
Nearest MRT: Bugis
Open: Monday to Sunday (12pm to 3pm, 5pm to 10pm)
Shannon Yap
Author
Shannon has the taste buds of a grandmother and perpetually struggles with a food coma.
Read More
