Guangzhou is no newcomer on the global foodie scene. Much ink has been spilt on the city’s celebrated Cantonese cuisine, and the city recently received a nod from the folks over at the Michelin Guide, but we are firmly of the belief that there is sooo much more to Canton than dim sum and milk tea. One of our favorite Chinese regional cuisines? The oh-so-spicy, tangy, occasionally sour and always delicious edibles from Sichuan province. Whether you’re just visiting for Canton Fair, or you’re a longtime expat living in the city, it’s a style of food that simply must be sampled.
While there is no shortage of spots in Guangzhou specializing in Sichuan eats, one stands out from the pack, with a passionate following amongst both expats and Chinese locals alike: Lukshow. Boasting six locations across the city (and four in Shenzhen), Lukshow’s regular queue stands testament to the quality eats found here and makes it a must-visit spot.
But don’t take it from us, we sat down with expats and Chinese locals alike to find out why Lukshow is one of Guangzhou’s hottest spots for regional Chinese cuisine. Below, we explore the reasons why every person visiting or living in Guangzhou needs to try Lukshow.
1. Trusted Quality
If you’ve spent any time in China at all (and probably even if you haven’t), you’ve definitely heard the horror stories: radioactive seafood, opium-laced meals and, most relevant in this case, reused oil in hot pot broth. Well, you needn’t worry about any of these things at Lukshow. At all of Lukshow’s 10 locations in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, all oil used in the preparation of dishes, broths and the like is used just once.
Image via Lukshow
In fact, the restaurant chain is so proud of their one-time oil-use policy that you’ll find it proudly displayed on much of their promotional material.
2. Big Bowls of Great Food
Image via Lukshow
Sure, you may have had regular hot pot, with a hot plate, metal pot and fiery broth, but have you ever sampled a Sichuan-style dry pot? Maybe, but not like Lukshow’s. For the unaware: Lukshow’s dry pot is hot pot’s liquidless sister, a zesty number composed of heat-packin’ chilies, perfectly fried shrimp and your choice of additional ingredients, including potatoes and lotus root, among others.
The spicy, sour fish bowl is possibly one of the most popular regional dishes in Guangzhou at the moment. Made with a delightfully tangy broth, chilies, pickled vegetables and high-quality (and largely boneless) fish, along with additional ingredient options, this meal is one of our favorites!
Image via Lukshow
Both of the aforementioned dishes are two of Lukshow’s most popular menu items. Find us someone who doesn’t like these dishes and we’ll show you someone who doesn’t know good food.
3. Service That Goes a Cut Above
Image via Lukshow
Good service can be hard to find in Guangzhou, full stop. One of the most regular complements we’ve heard about Lukshow is that staff there are friendly, offering regular greetings, and fast. While the level of English amongst staff is low, they will go above and beyond to make sure you leave happy and full. If you’re into high-fives, don’t hesitate to ask, they abound here and come without question! (If you’re visiting for Canton Fair and concerned about ordering, see Point 4).
4. An Easy-to-Navigate Menu
Image via Lukshow
English, and good English to boot, is present on Lukshow’s menu. If you find yourself regularly intimidated by the process of ordering food at Chinese restaurants, you’ll have no problem here.
Image via Lukshow
In the previous point we mentioned that Lukshow’s staff are not the most English-proficient folks in the world, but we’re now telling you that honestly won’t matter – with English titles, clear organization of dishes and professional photos you’ll be able address your spice craving with ease – even if you can’t speak a word of Chinese. Canton Fair visitor’s rejoice!
5. Decor That Leaves an Impression
Image via Lukshow
Don’t want to deal with the cheesy interior design decisions that haunt far too many Chinese eateries? Lukshow is your place. With a design style that brilliantly fuses traditional elements with modern flair, each and every single Lukshow location in Guangzhou offers a cool – yet undoubtedly Chinese-style – dining environment. Both Chinese diners and expats had high praise for the decor at Lukshow. Don’t believe us? Go see for yourself!
Image via Lukshow
Looking to test out Lukshow’s ambiance, killer service and mouthwatering food? For a limited time only, share the image below to any social media account with the hashtag ‘#IWantThis!’ and show a screenshot to restaurant staff to receive a free order of dandanmian or spicy wontons! (Offer valid once per table for dine-in customers only).
Image via Lukshow
Click here to see listings for all Lukshow locations in Guangzhou.
[Cover image via Lukshow]
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