Crispy, spicy, and completely addictive. Our Cauliflower Karaage is the ultimate proof that vegetables can be the star of the table. It’s a Japanese-inspired treat that’s become a local favorite for a reason.
The Details: We take fresh cauliflower florets, tempura-fry them until they reach golden perfection, and toss them in our very own spicy mayo.
The Kick: Topped with chili crunch for that extra layer of texture and heat.
Dietary: Vegetarian (VEG).
Price: $10
The Perfect Pour: Balance the heat with a glass of Champion Sauvignon Blanc ($11). The zesty, tropical notes are a match made in heaven for the spicy mayo.
The Ultimate Trailside Treat
If you think vegetables can’t be the star of the show, our Cauliflower Karaage is here to change your mind. Inspired by traditional Japanese street food but served with a signature Point Nine twist, this dish has quickly become a “must-order” for locals and trail-travelers alike. Whether you’re stopping in after a long bike ride on the Redbud Trail or looking for the perfect spicy snack to pair with your mid-week happy hour, this is the dish that delivers.
The Craft: How We Make It
Great Karaage starts with the prep. We hand-cut fresh cauliflower into bite-sized florets, ensuring every piece has the perfect surface area for our tempura batter. We use a light, airy tempura style that provides a satisfying “snap” without being heavy or greasy. Once they hit that golden-brown perfection, we toss them in our very own house-made spicy mayo.
But the real secret? The Chili Crunch. This isn’t just a garnish; it’s an explosion of texture. We layer that savory, crispy heat over the creamy mayo to create a flavor profile that hits every note: salty, spicy, creamy, and crunchy.
The Experience: Patio Vibes & Post-Trail Fuel
There’s something special about enjoying a bowl of hot, spicy Cauliflower Karaage on our dog-friendly patio. As the sun sets over Andover, the bold flavors of the chili crunch pair perfectly with the relaxed atmosphere at Point Nine. It’s light enough to share as a starter but satisfying enough to be your main event if you aren’t feeling a heavy burger. It’s also a favorite for our “Get Outside” community—the perfect reward after finishing a trek down the Redbud Trail.
The Expert Pairing
Our bar team takes pairings seriously. For the Cauliflower Karaage, we recommend the Champion Sauvignon Blanc ($11). Why? The heat from the chili crunch and the richness of the spicy mayo need a wine with high acidity and bright, tropical notes to clean the palate between bites. If you’re more of a beer fan, a crisp, cold lager provides that same refreshing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cauliflower Karaage spicy? It has a moderate “kick” thanks to the spicy mayo and chili crunch, but it’s balanced by the sweetness of the cauliflower. It’s flavorful heat, not “burn your tongue” heat!
Is this dish vegetarian? Yes! It is one of our most popular vegetarian (VEG) options on the menu.
Plan Your Visit to Point Nine
Ready to try it for yourself? Point Nine is located at 1539 N Andover Rd, right at Mile Marker .09 on the Redbud Trail. We’re open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch.