12 Best Restaurants For Highly Spicy Food in San Gabriel valley SGV | Eater LA

"Xiao Long Kan is one of the most famous hot pot chains in China. The brand hails from Chengdu, the unofficial hot pot capital of China, and boasts more than 1,000 outlets across the globe. Its spicy hot pot broth is said to be made of 90 ingredients including dozens of herbs, chili peppers, and peppercorns that have been steeped in a fatty beef tallow base. Diners can choose between mild, medium, or extreme spice levels, but even its mild broth is considered too spicy to those unaccustomed to searing heat. XLK is known for its “butter,” which is made of slabs of solidified beef tallow marinated with spicy and numbing spices. The slab of “butter” fat dissolves, giving the stock its full flavor. Xiao Long Kan exceeds at capturing its iconic high-end classical Chinese ambiance, which combines its unique menu items like crystal beef (brisket and egg) and spice levels with live traditional guzheng musical performances. But due to COVID, its expensive and over-the-top ambiance and live performances are no longer possible. Currently, you can buy XLK’s hot pot to go. The menu is accessible via QR code, or you can call and place your order. It is also available on Fetail for online ordering." - Kristie Hang