"I had a fantastic experience at this restaurant, and as someone from Hunan, I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to try Xiangcai cuisine for the first time. The presence of a map showcasing Changsha city on the table evoked a warm and welcoming feeling. The food at this place is outstanding, especially the spicy chicken gizzards and the fish dishes, which I thoroughly enjoyed. While the cauliflower dish was just okay and not something I’d recommend, the chicken gizzards were exceptional—chewy, well-seasoned, and with a pleasant level of spiciness. They paired wonderfully with rice, making for a satisfying meal. Another highlight is the unique Changsha shaomai, distinct from the shaomai you typically find in other Chinese restaurants. Unlike those that usually contain shrimp or meat, the Hunan shaomai is filled with seasoned sticky rice, creating a delightful twist. We also tried the two different pepper fish dishes, and we loved adding noodles to them. The noodles soaked up the delicious fresh broth, enhancing the overall taste and experience. Xiangcai湘菜 is one of the eight major Chinese cuisines, and I believe it deserves more attention. Compared to chuancai 川菜, it stands out with its spicy seasoning derived from fresh peppers, avoiding the numbing effect of chili peppers. If you’re a fan of Chinese food, I highly recommend embarking on a Xiangcai culinary adventure at this restaurant!"
