Sumiao Hunan Kitchen

This bright spot among Kendall Square's many offerings is one of the few Chinese restaurants specializing in Hunanese cuisine in the area. Sumiao Chen trained as a doctor and scientist but her true passion for food led her to open this local favorite in 2017. There are plenty of Chinese staples but look closely to discover an enticing selection of regional specialties. Spicy, crunchy cucumbers are a flavorful accent to any dish. Chef Zhang's stir-fried rice noodles are a delightful heap strewn with egg, chives, cabbage and bits of pickled green beans, while Grandma's pork features shang gan, or firm tofu seasoned with Chinese five spice. Care is seen throughout — even the General Tso's chicken is tossed in a house-made sauce.