Mala Xiang Guo
Mala Xiang Guo is a modern Sichuan dish known for its bold, customizable format and intense “ma-la” flavor — the numbing heat created by Sichuan peppercorns and dried chilies. Unlike traditional soups or stir-fries, Mala Xiang Guo is typically prepared by stir-frying a selection of meats, vegetables, and tofu together in a fragrant chili oil sauce.
This page highlights places in and around Washington, DC where you can find Mala Xiang Guo, along with a few notes that may help when ordering.
Where to eat Mala Xiang Guo in Washington, DC
- 🥇 Sichuan Pavilion（重庆楼）
A well-known local Sichuan restaurant offering Mala Xiang Guo with strong aroma and authentic seasoning. - 🥈 Da Hong Pao（大红袍海鲜酒家）
Known for banquet-style seafood and robust flavors; offers Mala Xiang Guo in different styles. - 🥉 Szechuan House（四川小馆）
A neighborhood spot with steady flavors, suitable for sharing multiple dishes.
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
Mala Xiang Guo is typically prepared without soup and served dry, with ingredients coated in chili oil and spices. Common ingredients include sliced meats, lotus root, potatoes, mushrooms, tofu, and leafy greens.
Most restaurants allow customers to choose their ingredients and adjust spice level, but the seasoning style itself is usually fixed. The dish can be quite spicy, so if you are sensitive to heat, it’s best to request a milder version.