I recently visited Hafa Afternoon Tea Time, a Korean-owned fried chicken restaurant, and I would rate it 4.9 out of 5. The establishment is run by a Korean couple who manage the entire operation.
I had a conversation with the owner (the wife) about the level of spiciness in their sweet and spicy flavor. I asked if the current level of spiciness is adjusted to suit the general preference of Koreans, and she responded that Koreans can handle even spicier flavors. However, they have reduced the spice level to cater to the taste preferences of North American customers. I mentioned that I would try the spicier version next time I visit.
Compared to the creative fried chicken available near Deji in Nanjing, the sweet and spicy flavor at Hafa Afternoon Tea Time feels more authentic. Even the chicken breast portion doesn't feel dry, probably because it is fried only after the order is placed. Additionally, they offer the option to add cilantro, which enhances the overall experience. The combination of sweet and spicy sauce with cilantro creates a delightful and well-balanced taste without feeling overwhelming. On the other hand, the original flavor mainly emphasizes its crispy and...
Read moreI’ve driven by this place a couple of times, always thinking I should try it. Finally went in tonight for takeout. Chicken and… fries (I know, I know…)
Anyway, the chicken was amazingly tasty. I got the Ban Ban Combo - half original, half sweet and hot. I didn’t specify what level ‘hot’ I wanted, so I’m guessing they defaulted to 1 out a possible 3. It was mildly hot and oh, so delicious. I can handle some heat so I’ll kick it up a notch next time just to see (I don’t want heat just for the heat - it has to add to the flavour). The original was very tasty as well - right amount of ‘yum’ that didn’t just rely on salt to give it flavour.
I went there for the chicken, so I didn’t try some of the other things on the menu. However, I had seen a picture online of their fries and they looked appealing. Let me tell you, they did not disappoint. Like chip truck fries (a bit thinner) - perfect with salt and vinegar. What really made them stand out was that they were all ‘good’ - no mysterious black spots on any of them. Don’t know if I just got lucky, but every last one of them was great.
The restaurant is small and comfy. The service was friendly. The food was delicious. What more...
Read moreHeard about this place from Curated magazine's 50 best eating spots in Nova Scotia, and what a delight it is. Situated in the old motel on Bedford Highway, right next door to the excellent Dhaba 2, it's a simple, comfortable space, with a surprisingly pretty patio outside, which looks down through the trees to the Basin. It specialises in fried chicken, as the name would suggest, with several interesting varieties, served either as a half or a whole bird. I went for the sweet and hot cilantro, mid-spice and it was a treat, as well as a challenge! I'd advise adding a bowl of plain rice as well, to soak up the tasty sauce. They also offer a small selection of Korean standards, which I'll have to try in due course. Mid week in September, they had around a dozen covers while I was there, enjoying the Indian summer. Service was excellent and swift. Not too pricey, this is a lovely little place that I'd...
Read more