Must-Try Dishes at Open Rice Kitchen in Davis, CA
1. Pork Belly Fried Rice – A Flavor Bomb
This dish is a standout for its perfectly crisped pork belly pieces, layered over fluffy, garlic-infused fried rice. The balance of umami, smokiness, and a slight sweetness makes it a crowd favorite. The pork is seared to perfection, adding texture and depth, while the rice absorbs all the savory juices.
Why It’s Popular:
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Hearty and satisfying
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Bold, meaty flavors
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Perfectly seasoned and cooked
2. Salted Fish Fried Rice – A Taste of Cantonese Tradition
Salted fish may be an acquired taste, but at Open Rice Kitchen, it’s transformed into a beloved classic. Mixed with egg, green onions, and fragrant rice, the salted fish adds bursts of rich, briny flavor.
Why It’s Popular:
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Authentic Chinese flavor profile
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Salty and savory with a hint of smoke
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A nostalgic dish for many
3. Singapore Style Curry Noodles – Spice Meets Comfort
These curry noodles are stir-fried with vibrant vegetables, egg, and your choice of meat or tofu. The noodles are coated in a mild curry blend that’s aromatic rather than overwhelming.
Why It’s Popular:
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Unique fusion of Southeast Asian flavors
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Colorful and Instagram-worthy
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Light yet flavorful
4. Honey Walnut Shrimp – Sweet, Creamy & Crunchy
A classic dish, made with crispy battered shrimp, tossed in a creamy, slightly sweet sauce and topped with candied walnuts. It offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Why It’s Popular:
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Balanced sweet-savory flavor
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Crunchy walnuts + soft shrimp = winning combo
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Great as a sharable dish
5. Popcorn Chicken with Garlic Sauce – Street Food Style
A hit among students and younger diners, this dish features bite-sized pieces of chicken, deep-fried and seasoned, served with a garlicky sauce that gives it a Taiwanese-style street food twist.
Why It’s Popular:
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Crispy, flavorful, and fun to eat
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Excellent as a snack or side
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Bold garlic flavor adds kick
6. Kimchi Fried Rice – A Korean-Chinese Fusion Favorite
This dish combines spicy, fermented kimchi with savory fried rice, often topped with a fried egg. It’s a vegetarian-friendly option with deep, fermented complexity.
Why It’s Popular:
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Spicy, tangy, and hearty
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Vegetarian-friendly
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Perfect comfort food on a cold day
7. Bubble Tea & Add-Ons – The Icy Companion
Don’t forget to pair your meal with a signature bubble tea or milk tea, available in classic flavors like taro, jasmine, and brown sugar. Customize sweetness and ice levels, and top off with tapioca pearls or jelly cubes.