Ma La Sichuan

Summary

Though “well patronised by suited government types and Sky News executives”, it’s easy to overlook this “unassuming restaurant in an otherwise soulless building on a Westminster corner-site”. “It’s a pleasure to find” though, especially if you like “classic Sichuan cooking”. Chef Zhang Xiaozhong provides “thoughtfully presented and delightful dishes, with punchy flavours and consistent quality” and “the menu indicates degrees of spice / heat for each item”. “Always busy – it’s best to reserve” and – though very “efficient” – service can also be seen as “brusque” or “rushed”. Top Menu Tip – “some dishes you don’t get in most Chinese restaurants, such as delicious preserved egg”.