A Culinary Adventure: Exploring the Small Bites at Cal Shabu
At Cal Shabu, we believe every meal is an adventure, and no journey begins without an array of delicious appetizers to set the tone. Our small bites menu is crafted to offer a perfect balance of flavors and textures that complement our signature hot pot dishes. Whether you're looking for something light, crispy, or savory, our small bites are the perfect way to start your meal.
Let’s dive into these bite-sized delights and explore the flavors waiting for you at Cal Shabu!
Edamame: A Simple, Classic Starter
No Japanese meal is complete without Edamame—steamed young soybeans lightly salted to perfection. This classic appetizer is packed with protein, making it the ideal light and healthy snack to get your appetite going. Each bite brings a satisfying combination of salty and earthy flavors.
Pro Tip: Pair with your favorite dipping sauce for an added flavor twist!
Jellyfish Salad: A Textural Delight
For something unique, our Jellyfish Salad is a must-try. Jellyfish may not be a common dish for everyone, but it’s a culinary adventure worth taking. The jellyfish has a slightly crunchy, chewy texture, and when combined with tangy seasonings, it creates an unforgettable bite. Light and refreshing, this appetizer is perfect for those seeking something different.
Seaweed Salad: Fresh, Vibrant, and Nutritious
Our Seaweed Salad is a refreshing dish full of nutrients and bold flavors. Made from fresh seaweed, it's dressed in a light sesame oil vinaigrette and sprinkled with sesame seeds. The combination of salty, sweet, and nutty flavors creates a perfectly balanced bite that cleanses the palate and primes your taste buds for the main course.
Cajun Fries: A Fusion of Flavors
If you're craving something a bit more indulgent, our Cajun Fries are the way to go. These golden, crispy fries are seasoned with bold Cajun spices, giving them a delightful kick. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for sharing. It’s a flavorful fusion of East meets West that adds a modern twist to traditional Japanese appetizers.
Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet, Savory, and Satisfying
For those who prefer a sweeter option, our Sweet Potato Fries are a delicious alternative. Crispy, lightly salted, and naturally sweet, they offer a delightful contrast to more savory dishes. Perfectly seasoned, these fries are an ideal complement to our hot pot or as a standalone snack.
Gyoza (Pork & Chicken): A Burst of Flavor
At Cal Shabu, we offer two types of Gyoza—both filled with rich, flavorful fillings encased in delicate dumpling wrappers.
Pork Gyoza: Juicy ground pork mixed with fresh vegetables and spices, lightly pan-fried to achieve a crispy bottom with a tender, chewy top.
Chicken Gyoza: A lighter alternative with savory minced chicken, herbs, and spices that pack each bite with bold flavor.
Both options come with a tangy dipping sauce that enhances the experience. These dumplings are perfect for starting your meal or sharing with friends.
Japanese Chicken Wings: A Flavorful Classic
Our Japanese Chicken Wings are another must-try small bite. These wings are marinated in a savory blend of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic, then fried to crispy perfection. Each bite is juicy, flavorful, and packed with umami. Whether you're a wing lover or looking for something new, these wings are sure to satisfy.
Takoyaki (Octopus Balls): A Japanese Street Food Favorite
For a taste of traditional Japanese street food, you can't go wrong with our Takoyaki. These delightful octopus balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, filled with tender pieces of octopus and topped with savory sauces, bonito flakes, and seaweed powder. It's a bite-sized burst of flavor that transports you straight to the streets of Japan.
Premium Shrimp Shumai: Elegant and Flavorful
Last but certainly not least, our Premium Shrimp Shumai offers a touch of elegance to your appetizer lineup. These delicate steamed dumplings are filled with a delicious mixture of shrimp, creating a tender and flavorful bite that melts in your mouth. They’re the perfect way to start your meal on a light and refined note.
Visit us today to embark on a culinary adventure, starting with our delightful small bites before diving into the main event—our fresh and flavorful hot pots.
Location:
3081 Nutley St., Fairfax, VA
Contact: (571) 210-2252
Bring your friends, share these bites, and enjoy the full Cal Shabu experience! ▣
