Regina’s Hidden Gem: A Decade-Old Chinese Restaurant
📍 Location & First Impressions Nestled at 4112-B Albert Street, this unassuming Chinese eatery has been quietly winning hearts for over 10 years. With just four tables and walls adorned with handwritten thank-you notes, it feels more like a family kitchen than a restaurant—and that’s the charm. 🍜 Why Locals (and Tourists) Keep Coming Back Authentic Flavors: No “Westernized” sweet-and-sour mush here. Think braised pork belly that melts like butter, hand-pulled noodles with just the right chew, and spicy cumin lamb that’ll make you sweat happily. Secret weapon: Their homemade chili oil (bottles are for sale—hint hint).❤️ The “Best in Regina” Debate: Regulars—especially non-Chinese diners—often declare it the “best restaurant in the city”. While humility keeps the owners from claiming the title, the consistent lineups (even at 3 PM on a Tuesday) speak volumes. A Taste of Nostalgia: For homesick international students, this place is therapy. One bite of their zhajiangmian or steamed fish with ginger-scallion sauce, and you’re teleported to a bustling Beijing alleyway.😁 👨🍳 Behind the Scenes: The Heart of the Business Family-Run: The husband-wife team splits duties—she crafts the sauces; he masters the wok. Their teenage daughter sometimes helps with orders (and nails the pronunciation of “xiǎolóngbāo”). Ingredient Sourcing: Despite Regina’s limited Asian grocery options, they import key spices directly from China (hence the real Sichuan peppercorn tingle). 🌶️ Must-Try Dishes (According to Regulars) 1: Dan Dan Noodles (Peanut-sesame sauce with a slow-burn spice) 2: Three-Cup Chicken (Basil-heavy Taiwanese classic) 3: Scallion Pancakes (Crispy layers, doughy center—perfect with soy-vinegar dip) 💬 A Cultural Bridge in Prairie Land Funny Moment: A group of Saskatchewan farmers once asked for “something spicy”—then chugged three milk teas each while gasping, “This is how you eat in China?! Respect.” Community Love: During -40°C winters, the owners hand-deliver hot congee to nearby international students. 📝 Practical Info Hours: 11 AM–9 PM (Closed Mondays) Budget: $12–20 per person😊 Pro Tip: Call ahead for whole duck (requires 24-hour notice). Final Thought: In a city where “good Chinese food” is often an oxymoron, this 10-year-old miracle proves that passion beats flashy decor. Next Up: ➡️ Regina’s Grocery Struggle: Where to Find REAL Asian Ingredients ➡️ Interview: The Owners’ Journey from Guangdong to Saskatchewan #ReginaEats #HiddenChineseGem #ComfortFood #SupportSmallBusinesses #TasteOfHome #NoMSGJustLove