Irene Eng The Kibbitzer

Sichuan fandian (or da hongmen 大红门 - big red door as I nicknamed it - I was too young couldn’t pronounce sichuan fandian ..) served Sichuan cuisine that was frequented by Deng Xiaoping.  In theory, we wouldn’t be hob bobbing with such notable at all.  But during Mao’s reign, Mr. Deng was mostly either out of favor on the sideline, or worst sent to jail.  So since its founding in 1959, we were able to dine there often.  It’s near by.  Nainai was not found of spicy food and Big Red Door as we nicknamed it due to its glossy entrance, by no mean was able to produce edible dishes in today’s standard.  But back then, it was one of the best in Beijing, head and shoulder with Moscow Restaurant by the Zoo.  Most importantly, they served liquor there, wuliangye no less: 2 oz per diner.  New born counted.  So Nainai loved going here with me.  Drink 2 oz and took my share home for another meal.

Now it has few more locations.  The dishes are nice.  Quanju De had also renovated and updated, the food is great.  Before, it was a dump - duck bones were all over the floor.  Yuck!

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