Have You Experienced the Spice Kick at EMei Mountain Villa?

On a chilly day, I found myself craving some authentic Sichuan food and decided to visit EMei Mountain Villa, a popular recommendation among food enthusiasts. The spicy chicken was a delight, crispy yet not overly oily, while the dried bamboo shoots and beef pot offered a lighter, more subtle flavor.

However, my recent visit was a bit of a mixed bag. The restaurant was bustling, a testament to its popularity, and the service was prompt and professional. But the food didn't quite hit the mark this time. The crispy sea bass with corn nuts lacked the expected crunch and the flesh was dry, while the dry-fried green beans missed the mark on the home-style flavor I was anticipating. The hot pot sliced beef was a bit too starchy and overwhelmed with soy sauce.

On a brighter note, the sliced beef shank and tripe in chili oil was a standout, generously portioned and packed with flavor. The Szechuan peppercorns and spices added a unique and exciting twist to the dishes, and the Mapo Tofu was a winner, numbing and packed with flavor. Despite the few misses, EMei still holds a charm with its authentic Chinese cuisine, especially for those who love a good spice kick. I'm hopeful that they'll uphold their legacy as a premier Sichuan restaurant in Philadelphia.