Best Mapo Tofu in Rockville, MD

Looking for the best Mapo Tofu in Rockville, Maryland? This local guide highlights authentic Sichuan restaurants known for their chili-bean depth, numbing peppercorn aroma, and silky tofu texture. Whether you prefer bold mala heat or a more balanced savory version, Rockville offers some of the strongest Sichuan kitchens in the DMV area.

Mapo Tofu is one of the most iconic Sichuan dishes — silky tofu simmered in a savory, spicy sauce, typically with minced meat, fermented broad bean paste, chili oil, and a hint of Sichuan peppercorn. This page highlights places in and around Rockville, Maryland where you can find Mapo Tofu, along with a few notes that may help when ordering.

What to know when ordering

Mapo Tofu is usually built around soft tofu and a chili-forward sauce, with minced beef or pork in many versions. Restaurants vary in spice level, oiliness, and how "numbing" the Sichuan peppercorn flavor is. If you prefer less heat, it's worth asking for a milder version. If you enjoy a more classic style, you can ask for a version with a stronger numbing-and-spicy profile.

Our Picks for Mapo Tofu in Rockville

🥇 Sichuan Jin River (巴山蜀水)

410 Hungerford Dr, Rockville, MD 20850 — Get directions

A long-time Rockville favorite for traditional Sichuan cooking. Their Mapo Tofu features deep fermented bean flavor, visible chili oil, and a pronounced numbing finish typical of Chengdu-style preparation.

🥈 Kung Fu 12 Szechuan (功夫十二)

14921 Shady Grove Rd Ste D, Rockville, MD 20850 — Get directions

Known for strong spice levels and generous portion sizes. The Mapo Tofu leans bold and peppercorn-forward, making it popular among diners who enjoy intense mala heat.

🥉 Good Harvest (川天下)

5700 Fishers Ln Ste A, Rockville, MD 20852 — Get directions

A modern Sichuan kitchen offering a slightly smoother interpretation. The tofu is soft and aromatic, with a balanced chili profile suitable for diners easing into Sichuan spice.

Continue exploring Sichuan cuisine in Rockville

About this dish

• Complete guide to the history and origins of Mapo Tofu

Local guide

• Rockville Sichuan cuisine guide

Related dishes

• Water-Boiled Beef
• Water-Boiled Fish
• Kung Pao Chicken
• Twice-Cooked Pork
• Fuqi Feipian
• Dan Dan Noodles
• Mala Xiang Guo (Sliced Beef and Tripe in Chilli Sauce)

Mapo Tofu in nearby cities

• Mapo Tofu in Fairfax
• Mapo Tofu in Washington DC

Back to Rockville Sichuan cuisine