In light of COVID-19, we encourage diners to take precautions when going out. You can also support your favourite restaurants by getting takeaway and delivery.
Chilli Fagara likely needs no introduction. However, there may be some who have yet to visit (it was my first time) and want a bit of an introduction.
Founded in 2005, the Sichuan restaurant has built a steady, loyal clientele who love its high-quality, homey-yet-sophisticated cooking (it’s been a Michelin-recommended spot for years). It was founded by Chef Chan, who is still, at over 70, involved in regularly creating new recipes. Chilli Fagara very much remains a foodie family business.
So whether you’re new to Chilli Fagara or have loved it for years, they’ve launched some new lamb dishes for spring to tempt your appetite.
Our meal started strong with the cumin lamb skewers ($178). These were perfect – tender chunks of lamb with a roasted crust.
The skin of the little lamb dumplings ($98 for 6) was a bit too soft for my liking, but the filling was lovely and fragrant.
The sizzling lamb slices with Chinese leek and garlic soy sauce ($148) may have been my favourite dish of all. This is a homestyle dish – in presentation and taste – that really hits the spot. In today’s unpredictable times, it’s nice to have some comfort food, isn’t it? This dish with a bowl of rice would be an ideal meal for one.
In addition to the lamb dishes, we tried some tried-and-true favourites.
The honey garlic spare ribs ($138) came out piping hot and were the perfect mix of sticky and crunchy.
The mapo tofu ($108) was mildly spiced, a good dish to pair with the black truffle spicy fried rice ($138), which is one of the best bowls of fried rice I’ve ever had. Great chewy texture and quick a kick!
The homestyle shredded potatoes ($108) are made with scrambled egg, a unique twist on this classic Sichuan dish.
Verdict
Chilli Fagara is an easy restaurant to love. It feels like a hidden gem, a hole-in-the-wall secret… but, once you’ve tried it, one that is sure to become a reliable favourite. There are plenty of non-spicy and mild dishes at this Sichuan eatery, so it would be a good choice for groups with varied spice-tolerance levels.
7 Old Bailey Street, SoHo, Central, 2796 6866, book online
This write-up is based on a complimentary media tasting provided in exchange for an honest review and no monetary compensation. The opinions expressed here represent the author’s.
For more reviews like this, like Foodie on Facebook
