A secret East District date disguised as overtime: Lao You Ji's limited duck leg versus soft beef congee
Young love needs a rosy script, so 2-3 times a week I pretend to work late, say goodbye to my boss, and secretly dine with my boyfriend.
We met near Exit 3 of Zhongxiao Fuxing Station at the more-than-30-year-old Lao You Ji. Its name means old friend in Cantonese, and Google has over 3000 reviews.
The traditional Hong Kong storefront and honor board lead to a clean, bright, non-greasy room. Daily roast meats are limited; luckily duck leg remained.
● Duck Leg Rice
My boyfriend ordered it immediately.
The glossy leg was exceptionally tender, with crisp fatty skin and an explosion of roast-sauce aroma.
The side held only 2-3 lonely vegetable pieces—very Hong Kong—but the meat fully compensated.
My favorite: beef congee
Wanting something light, I chose their reputedly strongest Hong Kong beef congee.
Rice had dissolved into silky broth, topped with two fried-dough pieces, peanuts and scallions.
Mild and gentle yet clearly long-simmered, the hot congee soothed a day's fatigue.
● Fresh Shrimp Rice Rolls
Springy soft sheets, large shrimp and lightly sweet sauce made an appetizing plate easy to divide between us.
Conclusion
Our fake-overtime real date succeeded. Despite more than 30 years of history, the room is comfortable, and limited duck plus smooth congee deserve over 3000 positive reviews.
