Dainty Sichuan

Overview

Don't let the name fool you, for Dainty Sichuan Food on Toorak Road is anything but dainty. In fact, this Chinese restaurant in Melbourne packs a hell of a punch.

Upon entering the restaurant, you're invited to zen out in the tranquil mood it's created. Water fountains and buddhas greet you at the entrance, while the aromas from the kitchen get your tastebuds on high alert. The service here is what you might expect from a bustling Chinese eatery, it's efficient and fast without being overly cordial. But rest assured, you will be seated with a smile. 

The order of the day here is Sichuan, and the Sichuan-style pork belly is succulent and full of flavour. It comes with a serving of chillies and boiled rice and is worth the price of admission alone. Another Sichuan special is the spicy beef noodles served in a perfectly spiced broth with bok choy and spring onions. Be sure to wash it all down with a bottle of wine, for this joint is BYO and you're going to need it. A not-too-oaky chardonnay or a soft and fruity pinot gris should do it. Otherwise, a cold beer at hand never hurts.

If you want to turn the spice down a notch, then browse the dumpling menu, with pan-fried pork buns and chicken and mushroom dumplings the pick. If you're vegetarian or cutting back on meat, the dry stir-fred beans with boiled rice or the tomatoes with soft scrambled eggs make for a tasty alternative. Dainty Sichuan Food is home to some of the best (and spiciest) Chinese food in Melbourne. It's well worth a trip to South Yarra.