Located next to the Sichuan Provincial Museum, the flagship store of Chen Mapo Tofu (陈麻婆豆腐) is a bustling spot where you can always expect long waits, especially during peak dining hours. If you plan to visit during a busy time, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance. As one of Chengdu’s most iconic restaurants serving Sichuan cuisine, the flavors here are distinctive, offering an authentic experience that blends spicy, salty, and numbing sensations. Below are my personal ratings and recommendations for the dishes at this popular spot, where each dish earns stars based on its taste, authenticity, and overall appeal.
5-Star Must-Try Dishes 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
- Mapo Tofu (麻婆豆腐)
The signature dish of the restaurant, Mapo Tofu is a standout. It is salty and savory with a perfectly balanced level of spiciness, though not overly hot. The tofu is incredibly smooth, and the flavor is rich and comforting, making it an excellent pairing with rice. This dish tastes distinctly different from other Mapo Tofu versions and is a must-try when you visit! - Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁)
Originally, I thought this would be a basic rendition of Kung Pao chicken, but it turned out to be unexpectedly delicious. The balance of sweet and savory flavors was just right, and the crispy peanuts added a great crunch. It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser, and everyone at the table seemed to love it. Highly recommended! - Mao Xue Wang (毛血旺)
This is a wonderfully fragrant dish with a rich, spicy broth that will make you keep coming back for more. The ingredients—such as pig intestines, yellow throat (a type of meat), and various vegetables—are all infused with flavor, and the dish is served in a large portion, perfect for sharing. The seasoning is perfectly balanced, and it’s one of the best versions of this dish I’ve had in Chengdu. - Almond Tofu (杏仁豆腐)
A perfect dessert to end your meal, the Almond Tofu is smooth and refreshing, with a strong almond flavor. It’s not too sweet, making it a great option for those who prefer a more subtle, light dessert. Ideal after a spicy meal, it provides a soothing, cool contrast.
4-Star Recommendations 🌟🌟🌟🌟
- Fuxi Lung Slices (夫妻肺片)
This dish features slices of beef, beef heart, and beef tongue, served in a fragrant red oil sauce. The flavor is intense, with a numbing heat from Sichuan peppercorns. It’s an excellent choice for fans of spicy, flavorful meats, though those who are not used to strong numbing flavors might find it overwhelming. - Sweet and Sour Braised Pork (醪糟红烧肉)
This dish features tender pork belly cooked in a sweet, fragrant sauce. The meat is so soft that it practically melts in your mouth, and the sweetness is balanced by the richness of the pork. It’s perfect for pairing with spicy dishes, but be warned—it can get a bit heavy if eaten in large quantities. - Chives Crisps (韭菜薄脆)
Initially, I didn’t plan to order this, but after seeing it on other tables, I gave it a try. It’s similar to a “chive pocket” but with a much thinner filling. The chives are crispy and fragrant, and the texture is addictive. If you enjoy crispy, savory snacks, this is a great choice! - Drunken Tofu Flower (醉豆花)
A slightly sweet soup made with tofu, Drunken Tofu Flower is a refreshing way to end the meal. While it may not be overly exciting, it’s still a satisfying and not-too-sweet dessert that’s enjoyable after a heavy meal. - Sauerkraut Noodles Soup (酸菜粉丝汤)
After all the rich, oily dishes, this sour and refreshing noodle soup is a great palate cleanser. It’s light and tangy, with delicious vermicelli noodles that soak up the flavorful broth. Perfect for anyone who loves a sour kick in their dishes!
3-Star Dishes 🌟🌟🌟
- Cold Noodles with Peanut Sauce (担担面)
Dan Dan Noodles come in a small bowl and are served with a peanut-based sauce. While tasty, it’s quite oily, so it might not be the best choice if you’re looking for something light. Still, it’s decent and worth trying if you’re curious. - Beichuan Cold Noodles (北川凉粉)
This dish is okay but doesn’t stand out as particularly unique or memorable. While the flavor is good, it’s not a must-have and can be skipped if you’re short on time or looking for something more exciting.