"The joy of having spicy Sichuan food in the French Quarter is boundless for fans of the chili-driven fare from the province in southwest China. Try Dian Xin’s xiao long bao, or soup dumplings, made with ground pork, ginger, and garlic swimming in a searing hot broth — best to coddle the dumpling in a spoon and gently poke it with the chopstick to let the steam out, making it easier to slurp. Also say yes to pan-fried pork dumplings and for heat lovers, the chili chicken is incendiary. A second location in the Quarter serves staples along with a hot pot menu." - Beth D'Addono, Clair Lorell