Mala Sichuan Bistro

From Katy to Sugarland to Montrose, this Sichuan restaurant has spread its wings across the Houston area and beyond. The story begins at the original location, which opened in 2011 in Bellaire’s Chinatown. Whereas many Sichuan restaurants submerge everything in pools of chili oil, this kitchen takes a more measured approach. And true to its name, dishes boast a distinct thread of tangy bitterness and tongue-numbing heat but never so much that you’ll sweat. Don't ignore the classics like wonderfully balanced kung pao with soft juicy chicken, pork belly with broccoli or lotus root with a truly delicious sweet and sour sauce. Be sure to bring an appetite, as the portions are very generous.