Boston food | Deserved full score Hangzhou cuisine 💯

🥟 Szechuan's Dumpling: Arlington’s Hidden Hangzhou Gem—Don’t Judge the Name Let’s start with the elephant in the room: That name. "Szechuan's Dumpling" sounds like a Sichuan spot, but surprise—it’s (Hangzhou-style) run by a clever owner who leaned into the name to attract locals. Don’t let it fool you—this Arlington spot (a 30-minute drive from Boston) serves some of the best cuisine in the area. 🍖 The Dishes: No Flaws, All Flavor We ordered five plates, and every single one hit. No fancy frills—just solid, homey flavors that make you want to grab a second bowl of rice. Dongpo Pork 🐷 • Rich, tender pork belly braised in soy and sugar—fall-off-the-bone soft. It’s a little fatty (as it should be!), but the sauce at the bottom? Chef’s kiss over rice. Sweet and Sour Ribs 🍖 • Not the tough, bony ribs you often get—this is tender, fried pork tenderloin tossed in a light, tangy sauce. Think Korean tangsuyuk but brighter, fresher, and so moreish. Chestnut Chicken 🌰 • Juicy chicken with sweet, soft chestnuts in a savory broth. Comfort food at its finest—warm, hearty, and packed with autumn vibes. Snow Pea, Edamame & Pickled Veggies 🌶️ • A spicy-sour-salty stunner. The kind of side that makes you shovel rice like it’s a competition. Addictive doesn’t even cover it. Osmanthus Rice Cakes 🌸 • Sweet, sticky, and fragrant with osmanthus—delicious, but the rice cakes were a little hard in the middle (likely frozen). Minor flaw, though—still worth ordering. 🚗 The Verdict A 30-minute drive? Totally worth it. This is "top 5 Boston Chinese" material—simple, satisfying dishes that taste like home. If you love (Jiangsu-Zhejiang flavors), skip the chain spots and head here. P.S. That name? Still funny. But the food? Dead serious. 😂 #BostonChinese #HangzhouFood #HiddenGems #FoodieFinds