Little Sichuan Restaurant Review, San Mateo

Little Sichuan is a Sichuan Chinese Restaurant located in Downtown San Mateo next to Draegar’s. It has been around for many years but changed hands in 2007. The old co-owner and chef runs Classic Sichuan Restaurant in Millbrae. Do not confuse this place with others with similar names. Many folks stopped coming after the change in ownership including ourselves. It was time to check it out again. This is a place to come for Sichuan dishes like noodles, not for generic Beef Broccoli.

Decor, Vibe – A step up in decor from a generic Chinese restaurant but still paper lining the simple tables and chairs. During lunch, the place was about 75% full with local office workers of all races.

Menu Pictures (Click to zoom into any picture)

Website Menu

Picks:

Spicy Sichuan cold noodles ($6.45) is a classic dish that still retains the recipe of the old owner. They mix up the egg noodles, shredded beef, and slicked cucumbers at your table.

Clear Wide Noodles ($8.95) were a bit greasy but made with nice sweet potato based noodles, green onions, and shredded beef. A good portion size.

OK:

Green Onion Pancake ($3.50) was a solid rendition but did not have the green onion flavor or crispy texture of the best.

Hot & sour soup ($4.95 Small) was decent and came with crispy chips. Lots of egg and a balance of flavors.

Pans:

Tiny steamed pork buns ($6.45 for took forever to arrive and tasted pretty plain. Filled with a meat mixture, they were not the best.

Tea smoked duck ($9.50 Half) was full of bones and had little meat. Flavor was fair at best.

Little Sichuan has average service where you had to hail waiter for almost everything. They did forget an item we wanted. Prices are reasonable and the good is slightly above average. If you are nearby and want Sichuan cuisine try this place for specific items, it is hard to justify coming here from a distance. Many other places serve better Sichuan cuisine.

$25 Dining Certificate for $5

Little Sichuan Overall Rating: (Average 1.5)

Come Back?

Food Rating:	(Average)
Service Rating:	(Average)
Atmosphere Rating:	(Average)
Value Rating:	(Good)

Guide: 0 = poor, 1 = Below/Average, 2 = Good, 2.5 = Very Good, 3 = Excellent , 4 = Extraordinary

Alcohol:	Full Bar
Attire:	Casual
Hours:	Daily 11:30 - 3pm, Sun - Th 4:30 - 9:30pm, Fri - Sat 4:30 - 10pm
Parking:	Free Lot
Reservations:	Yes
Prices:	$5.95 - $35