My recent visit to the Red Hot Chili Burrow turned out to be a delightful gastronomic journey, blending the perfect mix of American Chinese favorites and authentic Sichuan cuisine right here in Houston. This restaurant is the brainchild of an experienced head chef from China and a seasoned restaurant manager from Houston, and their partnership shines through in every aspect of the dining experience.
From the moment I entered, I was greeted warmly by the staff, which set the tone for the rest of the evening. The restaurant itself is a charming mix of East and West, comfortable yet elegant, reflecting the hybrid culinary vision of its owners. The ambiance was serene and inviting, making me feel like I had traveled thousands of miles away to a cozy eatery in Sichuan.
The menu at the Red Hot Chili Burrow is a delightful exploration of flavors. I ordered the Braised Pork with Preserved Vegetables, Spicy Chicken, and rice. The Braised Pork, cooked to perfection, was tender and rich in flavor, while the preserved vegetables added an interesting textural contrast and a subtle, lingering tanginess that balanced the rich meat beautifully.
The Spicy Chicken was an absolute treat for the taste buds. The dish was imbued with the distinctive "mala" (numbing and spicy) flavor of Sichuan cuisine, a testament to the authenticity of their dishes. The spice level was just right - it had a kick but didn't overpower the succulent, juicy chicken. The rice was perfectly cooked, and a wonderful neutral base to balance the bold flavors of the main dishes.
As for the service, the staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and ready to make personalized recommendations based on my preferences. The level of customer service further elevated the dining experience.
In conclusion, the Red Hot Chili Burrow is a gem in the Houston food scene, serving up an impressive blend of American Chinese favorites and authentic Sichuan dishes. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable dining experience that transcends borders. Whether you're a fan of American Chinese food or eager to try traditional Sichuan cuisine, this restaurant will not disappoint. A return visit is certainly...
Read moreThe rudeness of this waitress is absolutely UNREAL. I am the type of person who will give people the benefit of the doubt. But this lady was rude beyond belief.
It started when me and my boyfriend switched tables where I felt more comfortable. She didn’t like that. There was no one else there so it’s not like the table was for someone else.
I tried ordering dumplings and she started saying, “You can’t order that as an appetizer because it takes 20 minutes.” She SNAPPED. (I never said I wanted it as an appetizer. I just wanted it. Period.)
When she came back with the other appetizer we ordered, I gently asked if I could add tofu to my soup, and she rudely snapped “no”. I asked, “can I just order tofu on its own?” Again she snaps “no” like I’m the dumbest person on earth. Then she goes on to say, “Because we don’t sell that. If you want tofu then you don’t get the soup.” Again, very rude tone. Keep in mind, I very gently asked these questions. I work in customer service for a prestigious company and I have a gentle customer service voice. I would’ve been okay with that, had she said it less horrible. I felt like I was starting a military boot camp the way she was talking to me. If you don’t sell tofu, that’s okay. I’m not gonna get mad. But I’m not gonna let someone walk all over me like that. So I felt uncomfortable staying. I asked my boyfriend if we could just pay for what we have gotten and leave. He agreed.
We called her back and asked, “can we pay for our drinks and Rangoons and leave?” (Because this is all we had gotten so far and she had JUST taken our order so there’s no way it had gotten cooked yet.) She started arguing with my boyfriend and he repeatedly asked if he could pay so we could leave. And she yelled, “There’s no need to pay. Just don’t come back. EVER.” (As if I would.)
Worst experience I have ever had. I’m the type who always tries to be a good customer and tip as good as I can. I have never been treated so BADLY in my life. I always try to be kind and respectful. What a rude lady. As for the food there, I don’t know if it’s good or not. We didn’t touch the ran-goons. They may have good food, but the service...
Read moreI want to start by saying this place truly has Authentic Sichuan Chinese food on the menu and it's done very well. It will use lots of aroma from garlic, peppers, and herbs. There will be classic "heat" spice that you might be used to. There will also be "numbing/tingling" spice from the Sichuan peppercorns.
There are also classic "American Chinese" dishes on the menu like Sesame/General Tso's/Orange Chicken and Egg Rolls, so if you have kids or someone who needs something familiar, you still have options here.
I like all sorts of foreign food, and I've personally been looking for a place that had the authentic stuff for a while around here, and this one is the best authentic Sichuan near me in the Spring/Cypress areas.
Here's some of what we've ordered:
C2: 3 Savory Pepper Chicken C3: Szechuan Spicy Chicken
Beginner friendly, and authentic. Both of these are like Sichuan Popcorn Chicken bites. Delicious tenders of breaded and spiced chicken that goes great with rice, and it's easy to share. It reheats nicely if you have leftovers. And if you eat all the chicken you can use the leftover garlic and peppers to make friend rice at home.
V1. Mapo Tofu
Classic and delicious dish with heat and numb spice. The tofu has absorbed the broths flavor, and it goes so great with rice to mop up the juice. This is the "rice and beans", the "red beans and rice", the "mashed potatoes and gravy" equivalent of Sichuan food. Classic, iconic, authentic.
P8. Fried Szechuan Spicy Pork Intenstines
Delicious numbing spice, and a nice hint of fatty taste from pork. That mixed with the nutty flavor of rice is so great. This one doesn't have a broth to it, so it's easier to travel with and share. High in vitamins A, B12, and iron so it's been quite the pick-me-up when I'm under the weather.
Definitely give it a try. It's a great chance to try delicious authentic Sichuan, with great portions and fair prices. Clean and...
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