Hot Pot exceeded every expectation

I went in with low expectations — I'd had mediocre versions before. What I found was Hot Pot made with real commitment to fermented black bean and technique. The deeply savoury and sweet result was more complex and satisfying than anything I'd had before.

Chinese cuisine encompasses eight major regional schools with distinct ingredients and techniques. The a street stall in Chengdu was exactly right for this kind of eating. Shaoxing rice wine was offered as the natural choice and it elevated everything. When a dish you thought you knew surprises you completely, that's worth celebrating. Five stars without hesitation.