Asian Puzzle Canteen used to be called Moodle, a Taiwanese noodle bar. The signage and menu have changed, however, the business itself is still registered under the old name. The food is a mixture of Asian cuisines with hotpots, small tapas dishes, mains and their unique “Shao-xing Wine Chicken on Fire” (a drunken chicken dish that is set alight).

The last time I was at this place, it was called Moodle. Not much has changed in terms of decor.

For lunch, I ordered the Chinese BBQ Beef. When I queried the waitress as to what Chinese BBQ flavour was, I was told it was like satay. The dish was ready 15 minutes after ordering and the presentation was average. The beef was braised and chopped up into small pieces. The meat was tender and juicy, however it was very bland. The baby corn and cucumber added some crunchiness to the dish, but unfortunately, there was very little depth. The rice was soft and mushy which often occurs when you add too much water to the rice cooker.

The staff were friendly and the service was average. The atmosphere was relaxed and my meal set me back $8.50. Nearly all the meals are under the $10 mark with the exception of the hotpots and the “Shao-xing Wine Chicken” on Fire range. I usually finish everything I order, but in this case, it was left half eaten. My meal was just simply disappointing.

WHERE: 158 Gouger St, Adelaide