Water-Boiled Fish in Rockville, Maryland
Water-Boiled Fish (Shui Zhu Yu) is one of the signature dishes of Sichuan cuisine — tender fish fillets served in a chili-and–Sichuan-pepper broth, finished with aromatics and hot oil. This page highlights places in and around Rockville, Maryland where you can find Water-Boiled Fish, along with a few notes that may help when ordering.
Where to eat Water-Boiled Fish in Rockville
- 🥇 Sichuan Jin River（巴山蜀水）
A well-known local Sichuan restaurant where Water-Boiled Fish is a common menu staple. The dish typically delivers the classic numbing-and-spicy profile with tender fish. - 🥈 Good Harvest（川天下）
Often associated with Chengdu-style seasoning, with a bold aroma and a strong chili profile. A good pick if you like a more pronounced “ma-la” flavor. - 🥉 Kung Fu 12 Szechuan（功夫十二）
A broad Sichuan menu that usually includes water-boiled style dishes. A convenient option for group meals when ordering several classics.
Our listings are based on personal dining experiences and publicly available reviews. Individual preferences vary, and your experience may differ.
What to know when ordering
Water-Boiled Fish is usually made with thin slices of white fish served over vegetables, immersed in a chili-forward broth flavored with Sichuan peppercorns. The dish is generally both spicy and numbing. Restaurants vary in spice level and oiliness, so if you’re sensitive to heat, it’s worth asking for a milder version when ordering.