Authentic chinese restaurants outside of Chinatown. Grand Sichuan is THE place for Sichuan cooking in Manhattan (outer boroughs and Flushing excluded). While the menu calls out those items that are particularly Americanized, it also highlights the more traditional courses, which are as unique as Sauteed Loofah. While some may be turned off to this distinction, I found that it drew my eyes away from my mainstays and over to new and exciting things.

However, since my friends and I had decided to share a few dishes and they opted for some traditional Sichuan options, I chose a simple Steamed Tofu and Mixed Vegetables to balance the health factor. The Dry Sautéed String Beans with Beef tasted exactly as it sounds...dry...but much more appealing. The beans were arid and crispy. The beef also possessed a light crunch. As with most of their menu items, the course had a spicy vibe that thrilled the tongue. Then there was the Sliced Tilapia swimming in what they referred to as a "Spicy Sauce Soup". This aromatic, heavily seasoned broth was packed with Asian spices and small red chilies that my friends warned me to avoid at all costs. The massive bowl was served with a utensil similar to a mini-fishing net to aid in scooping up the hunks of fish without the hazardous peppers. The tilapia had absorbed the soup, making it very moist and tender. Now this was the type of hearty, authentic ethnic dish that inspired me to travel around the world in search of other delicacies.

Grand Sichuan serves up traditional, fiery dishes at affordable prices. The chain has several Manhattan locations, making it a tasty and efficient option for any meal.