Xin's Chinese Cuisine Awards

Xin's Chinese Cuisine Restaurant Review:

About the restaurant: At this small restaurant, chef Xin Zhao and his family offer his home-style, authentic fare. A few well-spaced tables and a simple décor anchored by line drawings of Chinese scenes define the interior.

Food & Drinks: Place your order and out comes a bowl of boiled peanuts, Chinese style, still crunchy and aromatic with star anise. Opt for a hot pot, which may include such exotica as chicken stomach, frogs and pork stomach. We've sampled two very different ones: spicy stuffed pork intestine, flavorful and generously portioned; and a huge pot of chicken and Chinese sausage with lotus root, thinly sliced potatoes and plenty of peppers, just enough burn and more than ample for three to four persons. Kung pao shrimp comes loaded with shrimp, peppers and onions, and a touch of hot pepper to keep things interesting. Scallion pancake cut into overlapping wedges makes a fine shareable snack. Eggplant centers a variety of dishes, but we're hooked on the pork-filled eggplant in garlic sauce. Vegetarians will find plenty to enjoy, from simple steamed assorted vegetables to meat-free eggplant options. Sweets aren't on the agenda. There is no alcohol, but you may bring beer or wine and not incur a corkage fee. We recommend also bringing glasses. However, hot tea works just fine with the fare. This restaurant used to be called Taipei, retaining a name bestowed by a former owner.