We’re addicted to Sichuan food, and we bet you are too. Hit up these restaurants in Singapore for your mala fix!
We love our spice in everything from local condiments to Korean or Indian cuisine. But there’s something about Sichuan spice that’s just so addictive. Perhaps it’s because there are seven aspects of flavour in its dishes: spicy, aromatic, sweet, bitter, sour, peppery and salty. This mind-numbingly spicy cuisine isn’t for the faint-hearted but hotheads everywhere will always put themselves through the heavenly torture… again and again. Presenting the finest Sichuan restaurants in Singapore for a fiery dining experience.
Best Sichuan restaurants in Singapore
1. Kuan Zhai Alley
Celebrate your love for all things Sichuan at Kuan Zhai Alley. The team is all about sharing the love and the heat with everyone through the complex flavours of Sichuan cuisine. We’re talking bold flavours from chilli-infused dishes and tangy vinegar touches. Whether you’re a long time fan or a first-timer, we’re sure you’ll find something here to indulge in. From cold appetisers like jellyfish in black vinegar to mains like gong bao fish and fried garlic pork ribs, it’s a great place to bring the fam (assuming you all love spicy food, of course).
Kuan Zhai Alley, #01-02, Capital Square, 23 Church Street, Singapore 049481
2. Sichuan Alley
If you’re looking to discover what Sichuan cuisine really has to offer, pop by Sichuan Alley. Everything down to the rice noodles is authentic, sourced directly from an artisan in a village deep in Sichuan. Tons of research went into the ingredients. It even took them close to a year to convince the owners to reveal what goes behind creating these amazing noodles! Have it with braised pig intestines or beef for a savoury kick. And get some sides like mala black fungus salad, dumplings with chilli, and funky pork liver for the table.
Sichuan Alley, 51A Telok Ayer Street, Singapore 048441
3. Kao Ge Yu
What started as a humble hawker stall has now evolved into a cosy restaurant in just half a year of operations. You can get delicious grilled fish without having to burn a hole in your pocket. We highly recommend the signature Sichuan green pepper grilled fish. It’s fresh and the spices are all on point. And if you’re a westie dying to give this place a try, pop by the East Village outlet. There’s plenty of parking around!
Kao Ge Yu, multiple locations including Macpherson and East Village
4. Chuan Wei Xuan
Another gem in the glorious neighbourhood that is Joo Chiat. The exterior of the building may be unassuming, but once you enter, you’ll step into a world of heavenly Sichuan cuisine. A must-try is the Sichuan fish with pickled mustard greens. The salty, sour broth is flavourful and perfectly complements the tender fish fillets. And if you want some crunch in your bite, get the popcorn chicken covered in dried chillis.
Chuan Wei Xuan, 348 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427597
5. Si Chuan Dou Hua
For a stellar fine dining option, look to Si Chuan Dou Hua. Its classy decor, elegant ambience and menu of authentic Sichuan and Cantonese cuisines make the experience a memorable one. If you’re here for the heat, order dishes like Chong Qing chilli chicken, marinated preserved vegetables, and prawns available in many different preparations.
Si Chuan Dou Hua, multiple locations including UOB Plaza 1 and Parkroyal on Beach Road
6. Qi – House of Sichuan
There’s a reason why Qi was awarded a Michelin star in Hong Kong for years in a row. Sticking true to the traditional palate, its range of dishes really pack in the heat. We’re talking about mapo tofu, slow-cooked black angus short ribs, chilli fried Sri Lankan crab and mala chicken. Just look out for the fire icon on the menu – it’s a sign of what’s to come. While classic dishes look intimidating with all that chilli, there are non-spicy and kid-friendly options, too. Dining with vegetarians? Check out the dedicated plant-based menu – there’s no escaping!
Qi – House of Sichuan, #02-01, Marina Bay Link Mall, 8A Marina Boulevard, Singapore 018984
7. Haidilao
Here’s a fun fact: this super popular hotpot chain actually hails from Sichuan. With that said, you know you have to go for the spicy Sichuan soup. We recommend you cut the heat by choosing the addictive tomato soup as your second base. Next, go crazy with the ingredients: from meat slices and seafood to veggies and mushrooms, add to cart all your favourites. Gotta love the amazing service, too!
Haidilao, multiple locations including Plaza Singapura and Clarke Quay
8. Chengdu
Bring along extra tissues for a serious hit of heat at Chengdu. Don’t underestimate anything or it’ll come back to haunt you (we speak from experience). We love how this authentic Sichuan restaurant in Singapore lets you choose your spice level, so the whole gang can enjoy the food without weeping. Apart from the usual suspects like spicy chilli chicken, we were breathing fire long after biting into chilli beef served with a sweet corn base. But did we go for seconds? You betcha.
Chengdu, 96 Amoy Street, Singapore 069916
9. Birds of a Feather
Looking for an updated, refined take on this spicy cuisine? Birds of a Feather serves modern Western food with a touch of Sichuan influence. Go straight for hot ones like the aptly-named Find the Chicken in the Chillies (chicken popcorn wok-fried Sichuan-style), mapo tofu, or the Oriental bolognese with pork ragout and sakura ebi. You’ll love the vibe of this place, too. Its shophouse space is beautifully sophisticated, with pops of greenery surrounding the tables.
Birds of a Feather, 115 Amoy Street, Singapore 069935
10. Si Wei Mao Cai
One of the OGs of Sichuan cuisine in Singapore, Si Wei Mao Cai serves authentic dishes brimming with peppercorns and heaps of dried chilli. Service is non-existent, but hey, this is often a good sign that the food is legit. Signature dishes include fish fillet in hot Sichuan pepper sauce, miao jia eggplant and duck stew with potato. There’s no dumbing down when it comes to spiciness, so step inside and dine only if you can handle the heat.
Si Wei Mao Cai, 33 Mosque Street, Singapore 059511
11. Chong Qing Grilled Fish
First, here’s a little history lesson. Chong Qing was actually part of Sichuan province before it split in the 90s. That’s why you’ll find a lot of similarities in their cuisines. Now, onto the food. Specialising in grilled fish, this eatery lets you pick your preferred fish (from options like golden snapper, sea bass and flounder) and side ingredients (including black fungus, pork slices and lotus root). Here’s the fun part: you can choose from different flavours and spice levels. Our fave has to be the spicy fragrant flavour paired with the medium spice level, which comes peppered with peppercorns (no pun intended) and fresh chillies. Just be prepared to sweat it out.
Chong Qing Grilled Fish, multiple locations including Bugis and Upper Thomson
12. Tanyu
This restaurant specialises in grilled fish with some mouth-watering (and numbing) spices. It’s a true showstopper with a whole fish soaking in a robust broth and covered in chillis. And we argue that Tanyu does it the best. There are over 10 different flavours for you to choose from, so there’s gonna be something here to satisfy your taste buds. You can go for hot spicy with pepper, soy sauce, and even sauerkraut flavour. And to cool off, get the brown sugar ice jelly or tangerine hawthorn drink.
Tanyu, multiple locations including 313@Somerset and Bugis
So, are you game to brave the heat at these Sichuan restaurants in Singapore?
