6 Must-Try Items on The Big Smoke's New Hearty Menu
The Big Smoke has recently undertaken a big overhaul of their meaty menu, keeping many dishes like their ribs and roast chicken the same, but adding new comfort foods to keep us going through winter. We were lucky enough to get to taste some of the new offerings. While everything was delectable, we've listed six items you shouldn't miss out on next time you head over (with at least three friends, preferably four).
Ultimate Loaded Fries (pictured above)
These bad boys are the pre-loaded fries on The Big Smoke's DIY fries menu, and come in at RMB 75. They're topped off with pulled pork, sour cream, smoked bacon, guacamole, salsa, and cheddar cheese, and were everything you'd think that they would be. If you're looking to make your own, DIY loaded fries start with cheddar at RMB 50, and additional toppings cost RMB 5-25 depending on whether you choose a simple dollop of salsa or go straight for the homemade chorizo.
Roasted Crunchy Cauliflower
This side dish was our favorite side (or even item) on the menu, made from roasted crunchy cauliflower (RMB 40) with a roasted red pepper sauce (which incorporates five different types of peppers), and parmesan as well as bread crumbs. The sauce is both peppery and deliciously creamy, which is surprising given that there's actually no dairy in it, so vegans can order sans cheese and breadcrumbs and enjoy it, too. We'll be coming back for this.
"什么什么" Meatloaf
This chipotle and ketchup-glazed meatloaf (RMB 70) comes with cornbread on the side – a homey dish that can either be shared or enjoyed as a single portion. The wedge of meat was juicy, if not a coarser than usual, basically making it a giant square meatball. We approve.
Roasted Bone Marrow Soup
This one will be our favorite winter warmer on cold Beijing winter days when we're keeping our health in mind a little more than usual: a nutricious roasted bone marrow soup (RMB 45) served with crunchy garlic bread. Thankfully not everything new on the menu is fried.
Fried Pickled Shittake Mushrooms
These little fried pickled shiitake mushrooms (RMB 40) are the bomb. They come sprinkled with a decent layer of parmesan, and are served alongside a creamy sauce. Get them to share over dinner, or, head in for a beer and have them as a snack – just don't skip them (especially if you're drinking and looking for something to line your stomach).
Slow-Braised Australian Beef
Tender slices of Australian braised beef (RMB 120) served alongside cheese grits with a rich red wine gravy poured on top (and more provided on the side). Although perhaps a little bit on the dry side, the gravy more than solves that issue and turns this into a dish you will not want to share with your friends.
We'll definitely be back to order each of these dishes again, with the addition of their new mac and cheese (once we've digested this haul). We were also pleasantly surprised to see Mighty Mo's mussels make an appearance on the menu, following their successful stint at Hatchery earlier in the year. The Big Smoke is serving their white wine rendition (RMB 95 for 500g).
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Email: margauxschreurs@truerun.com
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Photos: Margaux Schreurs
