Finding the best Kung Pao Chicken in the city — a personal search

I spent three months trying every version of Kung Pao Chicken I could find locally. The variation in quality is extraordinary. The best version handled five-spice with genuine knowledge and the rich with umami result was noticeably superior.

Chinese cuisine encompasses eight major regional schools with distinct ingredients and techniques. The winning restaurant had the right a street stall in Chengdu feel — unpretentious and focused on the food. Shaoxing rice wine was suggested correctly. Worth the search. When Kung Pao Chicken is made properly it's a completely different experience.