Since I hadn't been here before, I had to try some classics.
Potato slivers with Sichuan pepper. I am not really sure how they do this dish. Presumably the potato is blanched quickly. Anyways, it's served cold and is refreshing, crunchy and tingly with Sichuan Peppercorns. It is a little sweeter than the version at Ba Shan which I think has the edge
Fish fragrant aubergine is a real favourite of mine. I first had it in China so generally have high expectations of this one. Soft and gooey, sweet and sour. Great over sticky rice. This version was decent althouh omitted the usual ground pork. (My favourite version of this dish is at Red and Hot in Soho).
Chicken with Sichuan Chili is again a classic. This version was actually the best I have ever tasted. The chicken was wonderful seasoned and smokey. The chicken is normally served on the bone but this dish didn't suffer from any lack of flavour for not being so. Recommended.
I also couldn't resist a couple of their BBQ lamb skewers. The ones in Gourmet San are cooked over open charcoal. I wasn't sure if these were, as they tasted less smokey and BBQ'ed. They were still good though. Juicy and spiced with cumin powder. One day I would like to go in, order ten of these and 5 beers. That sounds like a great Friday night to me.
Overall I was impressed with My Old Place. It is bigger than Gourmet San and we didn't have to queue which was great. The food here is very authentic Sichuan fare and good value. Most main dishes are about £8 and portions are large as you can see. It is also easy to find. Just follow the streams of Chinese people coming up the road with little doggy bags. One gripe I do have is the presence of a Chinese only menu. Why do they always want to keep the good stuff to themselves? Boo.
Monster Munch Rating: 75%
My Old Place
88 Middlesex Street
London
E1 7EZ
0207 247 2200
