Little Sichuan

Overview

If the extensive Asian food offerings at Box Hill Central weren't yet enough for you, the addition of DIY hot pot joint Little Sichuan will surely sate your need for noodle soup.

Instead of ordering from the menu, you'll be given a large silver mixing bowl and tongs so you can out together your hot pot. You can choose your type of noodle — udon, egg or two-minute noodles — as well as your protein, veggies and any other additions. You pay by weight, so after filling up your bowl, step up to the front counter to weigh your food — it's costed at $3.28 per 100 grams. Then you can choose your broth, which is where you can choose your spice level, from the chilli-less chicken soup to the intense top-level 'sichuan spicy'. Just be prepared if you choose that last one.

If you're looking for small snacks, why not try the Chinese burger, a fried homemade thin bao bun filled with your choice of minced beef or pork ($7.80 each), or the fried leek pie, a pan-fried dumpling dish with a unique pie folding ($4 for two pieces). Other options include the bean curd dumpling ($7.80), or the pan fried buns ($10.80 for six).

Designed by EAT Architects, this restaurant incorporates light timber and lighting that takes you away from the crowds of the shopping centre and instead creates a busy dining experience. Over a steaming pot of noodle soup, it's the perfect place to warm up and people watch.