Lao Chengdu

Inside the renovated dining room, the focus remains on large portions of comforting dishes with a sharp balance of heat. Standouts include the super-crunchy dry-fried shredded squid, garlic string beans, and bowls of beef noodle soup. The kitchen balances fiery plates like spicy vermicelli noodles and mapo tofu with flavorful options like a hearty fish soup, all served alongside hot tea. It is a straightforward alternative to trendier dining spots.