The top Chinese-American and regional Chinese restaurants in the city highlight how diverse and intricate Chinese cuisine can be.
Every now and then, you stumble upon a restaurant so ordinary that you wouldn’t give it a second glance if not for enthusiastic recommendations. Fortunately, I have some friends who insisted I check out such a place, and I’m thrilled they did.
Enter Dashi Sichuan Kitchen + Bar – a seemingly unremarkable spot that might just be the crown jewel of Chinese cuisine in San Antonio. Trust me; this is one of the city’s best-kept secrets.
Dashi marks Kristina Zhao’s second culinary venture, the mastermind behind the acclaimed Sichuan House on the city’s far west side. Expanding her culinary empire, Zhao, along with her former chef Jian Li, transformed a nondescript space in northeast SA into Dashi Sichuan Kitchen + Bar, opening its doors in September 2021.
Nearly two years into the game, Dashi has not only found its rhythm but is setting a new standard in San Antonio’s Chinese food scene. Picture this – spectacular food taking the spotlight exactly where it belongs, front and center.
Dashi Sichuan Kitchen + Bar
Parking
It’s not often that I get to say, “parking isn’t a problem,” but for Dashi, that’s actually the case. You’ll find plenty of spots in the lot near the restaurant, and there are even more across the street in the spacious lot of the adjacent businesses. No need to stress about finding a spot – they’ve got it cover!
Exterior
The restaurant sits at the end of a strip mall near the intersection of Jones Maltsberger and Thousand Oaks Dr. While the white, clapboard exterior doesn’t boast anything extraordinary, the outdoor covered patio with hanging rattan chairs is exceptionally modern and a delightful spot to savor a cocktail during happy hour.
Admittedly, the views may not be anything remarkable unless you happen to find joy in gazing over a bustling city street to the Dollar Tree store that sits across the thoroughfare (and if you do, well, to such as his own!).
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Interior
Step inside the restaurant, and you’ll be greeted by an east-meets-the-club vibe. Picture swanky velvet seating, lively Chinese lanterns, striking chandeliers, and modern epoxy flooring. The indoor bar, though on the compact side, boasts a fantastic selection of liquors. Guests can perch on stylish brass barstools while enjoying their drinks – it’s a chic and inviting setup.
Food
Absolutely, if you’re heading to Dashi, the real star isn’t the design – it’s all about the food. Chef Li’s expertise in Sichuan-style cooking, emphasizing pickling, salting, drying, spicing, and chili oil, is truly unmatched. The menu, impressively extensive, covers traditional stir-fries, noodle and rice bowls, and unique Sichuan-specific entrees like wok-seared Mongolian ribeye and spicy cumin and lamb lollipops (yes, lollipops).
Prepare your taste buds for a flavor explosion – robust and full-bodied, such as bite into every dish at Dashi is a delightful journey through the salty, savory, and acidic essence of Sichuan-style cuisine.
With entrees served family-style, it’s the ideal spot for a group outing, allowing you to order a variety of dishes and share the joy.
If you’re on a smaller budget or dining with a compact group, consider a lunch visit. Dive into their $14.99 “Wok Wonders” menu, featuring a substantial entree, the BEST hot and sour soup, house pickles with smashed cucumbers (a newfound love), and jasmine rice. The flavors are so delectable, and the portions generous enough to enjoy the goodness for lunch the next day.
The Best Chinese Restaurant in San Antonio
In a city that excels in BBQ, tacos, and Tex-Mex, the absence of top-notch Asian cuisine in San Antonio has been glaring for quite some time. While there’s still room for improvement in this culinary landscape, Dashi has taken significant strides forward.
Zhao and Li have truly outdone themselves, both figuratively and literally. With the original Sichuan House as their primary competition for the title of the best Chinese restaurant in San Antonio, it’s safe to say they’ve emerged victorious, leaving a delicious mark on the city’s dining scene.
Conclusion
Dashi Sichuan Kitchen + Bar emerges as a hidden gem in the vibrant culinary landscape of San Antonio. Despite its unassuming exterior, this establishment captivates diners with a fusion of modern aesthetics and an inviting atmosphere. The real star, however, is the culinary prowess showcased by Chef Li in crafting Sichuan-style delights that deliver a symphony of flavors to every palate.
As the city’s Chinese cuisine scene evolves, Dashi stands out as a beacon of excellence, challenging the status quo with its extensive menu and family-style dining experience. Whether you’re a food enthusiast seeking bold and robust tastes or someone on a budget looking for a satisfying lunch, Dashi caters to a diverse range of preferences.
In the heart of a city renowned for BBQ and Tex-Mex, Dashi brings a refreshing wave of Asian culinary excellence, marking its place as a must-visit destination for those in search of an unforgettable dining experience in San Antonio.
I’m Nicholas Clark, the creative soul behind “San Antonio Vista.” I’ve been bringing the city to life with stories and insights, and I want you to be a part of it. At San Antonio Vista, we’re all about making your exploration a masterpiece. Join me in the journey at San Antonio Vista, where every visit tells a unique story!
