Shunxinglao Tea House — Restaurant in Chengdu

ShunXing Old Tea House (顺興老茶馆) in Chengdu was to be our first restaurant in Chengdu during this 9D8N trip with Chan Brothers. First impressions? It was grand. Also, it seemed to be endlessly HUGE. Upon entry, there was an entire corridor to the left with many many private rooms. If we were to wager a guess, maybe 40? Then, we were led pass a hall where diners could dine in a more elegant and luxe environment, albeit in the open. Then, we came to our area, 2 tables along the corridor. In this section, there were probably another 15 tables. But next to us, was the old tea house setting! We peeped across the curtains and saw a stage where there was to be performances and also tables, below that stage – just like a traditional Chinese tea house. This place is huge!

In terms of taste, we’d say that it was palatable. We asked our guides and they informed us that feedback would be taken from each group and adjusted to better suit our tastes. So, most of our meals during the trip were actually like that – adjusted to be less salty and less spicy. Not that we’re complaining. But if your impression is for authentic Sze Chuan / Chong Qing tastes, it would not be during these arranged meals enroute.

Still, we enjoyed the food this evening that ranged from Zhong Shui Jiao (钟水饺) that was only slightly spicy and more of a sweet sauce mixed with sesame sauce. The Panda dim sum turned out to be a mochi with marshmallow inside! The swan was a durian pastry. We also had 3 types of dumplings including one with meat, one with cabbage and one with Jiu Cai (韭菜 – garlic chives). Our guides also brought along some beers, complimentary for guests during meals. Overall, a good start to...