01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
Perched on the 2nd floor of a building near Wakamatsu-Kawada Station, Baika-en offers the bold spices and punchy heat of Bashu (Sichuan) cooking in a casual neighborhood setting. The menu features Bashu-style mapo tofu, seasoned with fragrant sansho pepper and fermented black soybeans (douchi), served as a set meal complete with rice, soup, zha cai pickles, and almond tofu to deliver an authentic, fiery punch. Unusual regional touches such as paocai fried rice made with fermented cabbage give diners a taste of Sichuan's deeper flavor traditions.
The noodle selection is extensive. Guests can choose from Taiwan-style tantan noodles tossed with minced pork and spicy mala seasonings, alongside Sichuan-style zhajiang noodles tossed in savory bean paste, comforting shrimp noodles, and simple, light ramen. Noodle orders can be rounded out with half-portions of fried rice or gyoza, allowing for a meal tailored to any appetite.
A weekly special menu offers diners a choice of two half-portion dishes from classic stir-fries like yurinchi or shrimp with scrambled eggs and wood ear mushroom, making it easy to sample multiple specialties in a single visit. Round tables and booths accommodate both solo diners looking for a quick lunch and small groups gathering for a relaxed meal.
