Looking for Chai — Restaurant in Edmonds

We have been going to Looking For Chai for several years now. Love it there. Today, we noticed changes in the food (but not reflected in menu) and I'm hoping they're just temporary.

Typically, the bento comes with pickled cucumber, tomato egg, and sautéed Napa. This time it was bamboo shoots (meh) and fried tofu. Maybe a cost saving measure?? (I'm hoping it's temporary!)

The seaweed egg combo appetizer usually has the sauce off to the side, but this time everything was covered in the sauce. I preferred it the former way. My kids are a little sensitive to the sauce, too, so it was nice to have it separated.

Typically, the hot pot is served with Taiwanese bbq sauce (sacha) and their garlic soy sauce. The former was missing this time. I asked for sacha and they didn't give me a problem on that.

If these changes are permanent, I think they should reflect it in the menu. Again, LFC has always been super consistent and delicious. This was a really rare off experience with them, and one I hope isn't repeated at the next visit. Is there new ownership or new chef?I actually came here to check to see if anyone mentioned it in the reviews.

This visit would be 3 stars but typically, I have a 5...

Edited: first time visiting after Covid. The fried stinky tofu is a decent side-comes with two dipping sauce and a pickled veggie. The tofu can be a bit stinkier in my opinion, but very good quality overall. The bento comes with three veggie sides, such a holistic and nutritious meal! With yifang in the store I can get a drink to go as well haha. Perfect meal!

I liked it a lot. I ordered pickled cabbage hot pot and milk tea. I would say the presentation is not as good as boiling point-the rice bowl is in a weird reclining shape, making it hard to place utensils. But the flavor is very good. I did not order the smelly pot but the whole restaurant smelled much smelly than boiling point, so if that's your thing definitely go there! Also, the waitress was just nice and courteous. They don't make you feel uncomfortable, but whenever you need something and raise your eyes you can always make eye contact and immediately get what you want. I somehow didn't figure out where to put straw in the milk tea (which is very tasty), and the waitress helped me very gently. 100 points for the...

If you're on the hunt for authentic Taiwanese cuisine in Edmonds, "Looking For Chai" is the place to be! This charming restaurant offers a delightful range of dishes, from night market-style steak and street comfort foods to warming hot pots that are perfect for any weather. Their menu also features a variety of bento choices, catering to all tastes and preferences.

A standout feature of Looking For Chai is their collaboration with the famous Taiwan fruit tea chain, YI Fang. After a satisfying meal, you can indulge in a wide selection of authentic Taiwanese drinks, perfect for rounding out the dining experience.

Our group, which included several kids, had a fantastic dinner experience here. The staff were incredibly accommodating, providing kid-friendly utensils and water glasses, making it easy for the little ones to enjoy their meals. They were also very flexible in customizing dishes to meet the kids' special requests, which was a huge plus for us.

Overall, we experienced great service and delicious food in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. I highly recommend Looking For Chai to anyone seeking a taste of...