NYC’s First Snow ❄️ Spicy Grilled Fish from a Michelin-Noted Spot!

When it feels like -5°C outside, nothing hits the spot like something hot and spicy! This weekend, my friends and I visited this long-standing Sichuan restaurant in LIC. I’d ordered their mala xiangguo multiple times during my student days, but it was my first time dining in—and the place was packed! Clearly, a local favorite. 🍜 Chengdu Cold Noodles A small bowl of chilled noodles tossed in a savory-sweet sauce with a hint of spice. The texture was silky, and the flavor was refreshingly appetizing. We finished it in seconds! 🌶️ Pickled Chili with Century Egg A must-try for century egg lovers! The rich sauce softened the egg’s sharpness, and pairing it with the small pickled chilies elevated the taste. Topped with crunchy pickled cucumbers for a sweet and tangy kick. 🦐 Spicy Jumbo Shrimp Surprisingly large and butterflied for maximum flavor. Crispy on the outside, tender and bouncy inside—even the heads were removed for easy eating. A delicious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy! 🥓 Twice-Cooked Pork A unanimous favorite! The pork slices were cut just right—thick enough to feel substantial but not greasy. Paired perfectly with fresh scallions. So good, we wanted to lick the chopsticks! 🐟 Mala Grilled Whole Fish The star of the meal! The fish sizzled in a bubbling, aromatic red oil—crispy-skinned and tender inside. Full of mala flavor and incredibly satisfying. We regretted not adding extra toppings! 🫖 Honey Oolong Ice Jelly Topped with unsweetened whipped cream that held its shape beautifully. The jelly had a herbal tea flavor, not too sweet but deeply aromatic. A perfect balance of sweet and salty—we couldn’t get enough! 📍 Hupo Restaurant A cozy, popular spot in LIC that lives up to the hype. Warm, flavorful, and perfect for cold days—or any day you’re craving real Sichuan heat! #HupoLIC #SichuanEats #SpicyFoodNYC #NYCRestaurants #MICHELINGuide