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Mapo Tofu

A bowl of mapo tofu that respects the heat of the dish rather than watering it down for a generic palate.

Based on 702 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Chengdu Bistro West Town 蓉小馆 image 1
Chengdu Bistro West Town 蓉小馆 image 2
Chengdu Bistro West Town 蓉小馆 image 3
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Cozy Chinese spot buzzes with a lively atmosphere and cramped tables. Vegan Mapo tofu packs a Szechuan numbing spice and comes in generous portions. Large, dog-friendly patio offers casual seating with live music for groups.

Mapo tofu features a vegan recipe with a Szechuan numbing spice that stands out. Portions are generous, often leaving leftovers.

People are saying

"I loved the Chinese food, especially the Dan Dan noodles."

"The cucumber salad was loaded with flavors and added the perfect crunch."

"I've never had Mapo Tofu this good before."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for peak dining hours.

2

A small bowl of Dan Dan noodles costs $6.

3

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options, including Mapo Tofu.

02
For U image 1
Chinese restaurant

Stylish mix of modern and classic Chinese decor creates a cozy, romantic vibe with soft classical music. Mapo tofu is spicy and flavorful, vegetarian-friendly, and affordable. Spacious seating and bright, clean space make dining relaxing and enjoyable.

Spicy and flavorful, the Mapo tofu comes in a vegetarian version without pork. It offers a satisfying spice level and is both tasty and affordable.

People are saying

"I thought the seafood here was a fantastic option for lunch."

"The Chinese food here, especially the mapo tofu, is so satisfying."

"I'll be back for the flavorful, spicy Mapo Tofu."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers $1 soup dumplings as a promotion.

2

The Sunday special offers 50% off dim sum and appetizers.

3

The restaurant has specials each night of the week.

03
QJ Kitchen 秋金 image 1

Sichuan cuisine shines with authentic spicy flavors and fresh ingredients. Mapo tofu offers a mouth numbing taste that is kid-friendly and affordable. Spacious, clean interior with comfortable high-end furniture creates a casual, cozy atmosphere for groups or quiet meals.

Mapo tofu delivers an authentic, mouth numbing flavor that balances spice without overwhelming heat. The dish is kid-friendly and offers great value under $30 per plate.

People are saying

"The Szechuan food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"The seafood here is so authentic and delicious."

"The Mapo Tofu here is addictively flavorful and mouth-numbingly spicy."

Good to know

1

Bobo chicken isn't always available, which can be disappointing.

2

The dining area and restroom are spotless.

3

QJ Kitchen offers a good variety of food for spicy and non-spicy enthusiasts.

04
Din's Kitchen image 1
Chinese restaurant

Newly renovated space blends Chinese-style ambient lighting with simple design for a calm vibe. Mapo tofu delivers a spicy kick and melts in your mouth, perfect with rice. Seating suits small groups but noise rises during busy dinner hours.

Mapo tofu offers a spicy kick and melts in your mouth. It pairs well with rice and stands out as a very tasty dish here.

People are saying

"You have to try the soup dumplings; they're amazing."

"You have to try the sauerkraut fish soup; it's authentic and spicy."

"I found the Mapo Tofu to be very good and spicy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is accommodating to large parties, suitable for groups of 7 or more.

2

You can refill the rice noodles for free, making it a great value.

3

The dry hotpot is affordable and comes in a hefty amount.

05
Robowok Mini Bowls - USC image 1

Robot chef delivers quick meals in a clean, affordable spot near campus. Mapo Tofu shines with perfect numbing spice and balanced flavor. Seating offers a nice vibe for lunch with satisfying portions and great prices.

Mapo Tofu features a perfect numbing spice and a balanced kick that enhances the dish without overpowering it. The version with beef is well-spiced and flavorful.

People are saying

"The Mapo Tofu has a perfect numbing spice and a great kick."

"I found the food here to be delicious and affordable."

"The Sweet Tomato & Scrambled Eggs felt comforting, like homemade food."

Good to know

1

The prices at Robowok Mini Bowls - USC are very affordable.

2

The plaza has ample parking and is conveniently located near the school.

3

The robot chef cooks quickly, providing fast service.

06
家宴·私房菜Taste of Home image 1

Enjoy a warm, cozy atmosphere with lively energy perfect for family dinners. Savor authentic, bold flavors in hot pots that keep dishes piping hot. Mapo tofu stands out with its rich, spicy mala kick, pairing well with hearty options like braised pork trotters.

Mapo tofu comes out rich and spicy with a perfect mala kick that pairs well with rice. It holds up as a solid, flavorful dish alongside other hearty options like braised pork trotters and claypots.

People are saying

"The Mapo Tofu here is rich, spicy, and perfectly mala."

"The beef short ribs are stewed until very tender and flavorful."

"The beef tomato bean curd soup is pure comfort."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak dinner hours.

3

Credit cards, including American Express, are accepted for payment.

07
Ginkgo Chinese Restaurant image 1
Chinese restaurant

Modern space with unique table settings offers a serene, elegant vibe. Mapo tofu shines with authentic Sichuan flavor and balanced medium spice. Clean, tidy environment welcomes diners seeking highly authentic dishes in a relaxed, professional setting.

Mapo tofu offers a medium spicy level with a balanced mix of numbing heat, saltiness, and a hint of sourness. Portions come hefty and reasonably priced, delivering an authentic Sichuan flavor that stands out in the area.

People are saying

"The seafood, like the walnut shrimp, was amazing and flavorful."

"The Mapo Tofu here is authentic Szechuan with a perfect flavor balance."

"The Lunch Spot here tastes so fresh and intentionally seasoned."

Good to know

1

The lunch buffet is priced at $14.95 with a changing menu.

2

They are currently running an anniversary promotion.

3

Ordering online is easy and quick for takeout.

08
Yummy Kitchen 闻香居 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open kitchen shows chefs' pride, creating a cozy vibe. Mapo tofu offers balanced spice and hearty pork intestines. Space fits big groups with authentic flavors and fair prices.

Mapo tofu comes with a spice level that suits many tastes and includes options like braised pork intestines with generous meat portions.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic Szechuan."

"I thought the seafood here was delicious."

"I found the Mapo Tofu really delicious and well worth trying."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not needed; walk-ins are welcome at any time.

2

Expect a wait of about 30 minutes during peak lunch hours.

3

Prices are reasonable, averaging less than $20 per dish.

09
Four Season Joyful image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian restaurant offers a clean, cozy space with comfortable seating and a calming atmosphere. Lunch specials include large portions of Mapo tofu served quickly, known for its authentic Szechuan flavor. Generous servings make it great for both quick meals and relaxed dinners.

Lunch specials feature large portions of Mapo tofu served quickly. The dish consistently tastes delicious and pairs well with other items like string beans and shredded beef with hot peppers.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be delicious and authentic."

"The Mapo Tofu here is spicy, tingly, numbing, and delicious."

"The lunch specials here are a great value and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch special that provides great value.

2

Four Season Joyful has a variety of vegetarian-friendly options.

3

Portions are generous, making it a good value for the price.

10
Cooking Girl image 1
Restaurant

Small Chinese spot with cozy atmosphere and soft jazz. Mapo tofu is perfectly numbing and silky, served with rice. Gold-accented dishes add elegant touch to casual dining on a cute patio.

Mapo tofu offers a perfectly numbing and silky texture. It comes served with rice and pairs well with spicy dishes like fish.

People are saying

"The Mapo Tofu is perfectly numbing and silky."

"The spicy fish here is tender and packed with flavor."

"The outdoor seating is a super cute patio area."

Good to know

1

The menu features a variety of authentic Sichuan dishes.

2

Expect to spend $10-20 per person for a meal.

3

The restaurant is family-friendly with a comfortable atmosphere.

11
Tofubox image 1
Vegetarian restaurant

Small, colorful spot offers a cozy vibe with friendly family atmosphere and no music for clear talks. Vegetarian and vegan Asian dishes shine with authentic flavors and generous portions. Mapo tofu is a highlight, rich and paired with purple rice for a satisfying meal.

Mapo tofu stands out with its rich flavor and pairs well with purple rice. Portions are generous and the dish is consistently well-prepared alongside other vegan options.

People are saying

"The vegetarian dishes here, like the chili oil wontons, are amazing."

"I found the Mapo Tofu to be authentic and delicious."

"The portions here are generous and the prices are fair."

Good to know

1

Certain menu items that say 'egg' are vegetarian, not vegan.

2

The lunch specials offer great value.

3

A lunch box with brown rice upgrade costs less than $10 if paid in cash.

12
Breeze image 1
Chinese restaurant

Space offers clean, modern decor with baby blue floral centerpieces creating a classy vibe. Cocktails deliver unique, well-balanced flavors that pair perfectly with authentic Sichuan cuisine. Mapo tofu features soft tofu in a peppery sauce, balancing heat and texture like top spots in Singapore.

Soft tofu blends with a peppery sauce for a balanced heat and texture. The dish matches flavors found in Singapore and stands out among New York options.

People are saying

"The food here is flavorful, with a delightful numbing mala spice."

"The Sichuan Chinese food here is shockingly good and flavorful."

"I thought the Mapo Tofu here was amazing."

Good to know

1

You have to come here for the weekday lunch specials.

2

Each soup dumpling is $2.50, and a single serving of purple rice is $10.

3

The kitchen is closed at 10:40 PM on Saturdays, despite posted hours.

13
Bao GoGo image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright, clean space offers a cozy vibe with authentic Chinese flavors. Mapo Tofu delivers bold, spicy flavor true to Szechuan style. Affordable prices keep energy steady for casual dining.

Mapo Tofu here stands out with its bold, spicy flavor and authentic Szechuan style. It pairs well with other classic dishes like Szechuan eggplant and Sichuan wonton.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the noodles and dumplings, is amazing."

"This lunch spot has first-rate food with great flavor."

"I ordered the Mapo Tofu and found it to be insane."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but it's advisable to order ahead due to popularity.

2

Bao GoGo does not serve alcohol, so plan accordingly.

3

Parking is validated for 2 hours in the garage next door.

14
Chiko image 1
Chinese restaurant

Elegant, cozy spot shines with authentic Mapo tofu that is both comforting and light. Spotless decor creates a serene, intimate vibe perfect for quiet meals. Small menu and limited hours keep it exclusive but beloved by locals.

Mapo Tofu here is deeply comforting and feels healthy and light. It comes with spicy garlic oil and mushrooms, making it phenomenally delicious and a dish people crave often.

People are saying

"The Mapo Tofu here is out of this world."

"This fried chicken is so juicy, it might be my favorite."

"The vibe inside is so cozy and chill."

Good to know

1

Takeout is the only option available right now.

2

The restaurant has stopped delivering through apps like Doordash.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

15
Chopstix Fusion image 1
Restaurant

Small dining area creates an intimate vibe with cozy ambiance. Mapo tofu packs a numbing peppercorn kick and offers a tasty vegetarian option. Handmade desserts add a sweet finish to the bold, authentic fusion menu.

Mapo tofu delivers a numbing peppercorn kick that stands out. The dish adapts well for dietary needs, offering a vegetarian version that remains flavorful and visually appealing.

People are saying

"I thought the Chinese food, especially the kung pao chicken, was very good."

"The salt and pepper shrimp here is the best I've had."

"The Mapo Tofu had enough peppercorn to numb my tongue."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant can get busy during peak hours.

2

The lunch special is $12.50 per meal, offering good value.

3

Vegetarian options are available and can be accommodated.

16
Hong Kong Station 3 image 1

Spacious spot serves authentic Hong Kong food with a rich, spicy Mapo tofu that rivals the original. Friendly vibe shines through beautiful artwork and a great music playlist. Easy parking makes visits hassle-free.

Mapo tofu comes with a rich, spicy flavor that matches the quality of the original location. It pairs well with dishes like beef brisket in black bean sauce and seafood chao fan with white sauce.

People are saying

"I loved the Chinese food; the beef chow fun was 5 stars."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Mapo Tofu here is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

They offer lunch specials.

2

There is a small parking lot in the back.

3

The restaurant has a parking lot, which was convenient during the Colfax construction.

17
NBX Asian Cuisine image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, cozy spot offers a homey vibe with an open kitchen and quiet atmosphere. Mapo tofu shines with bold Sichuan flavor, paired well with garlic eggplant and beef noodle soup. Authentic Lu cuisine delivers standout dishes like dumplings and spicy hot pot.

Mapo tofu features a very good Sichuan flavor that is both delicious and comforting. It pairs well with dishes like eggplant with garlic sauce and beef noodle soup.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be authentic and delicious."

"This wonton soup is the best I've ever eaten."

"The Mapo Tofu has a delicious, comforting Sichuan flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers Lu cuisine, one of the eight recognized Chinese culinary traditions.

2

It's rare to find a place in the U.S. that stays true to the essence of Lu cuisine.

3

The owner is also the chef and prepares all dishes fresh.

18
Dumplings N More image 1

Cozy spot with an open kitchen serves handmade dumplings and authentic Chinese dishes. Mapo Tofu is a gigantic portion and very tasty, paired with rice for a filling meal. Space is clean and well-designed but can feel cold due to strong air conditioning.

Gigantic portion of Mapo Tofu comes with a container of rice, making it a filling meal. The dish is very tasty and stands out as a favorite option.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings, is amazing and authentic."

"The soup portions here are huge and more than enough to share."

"I loved the Mapo Tofu; it was so tasty and a gigantic portion."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is small, so expect potential wait times during busy hours.

2

White rice and fortune cookies are not included with meals.

3

Prices are decent, and portions are large, suitable for sharing.

19
辣之味OnceMore Chinese Cuisine image 1

Small, simple interior offers authentic Sichuan flavors with a charming, basic atmosphere. Mapo tofu shines with rich, spicy flavor and smooth texture, perfectly paired with dishes like eggplant and spicy chicken for a balanced, flavorful meal.

Mapo tofu stands out with its rich, spicy flavor and smooth texture. It pairs well with other dishes like eggplant and spicy chicken, creating a balanced, flavorful meal.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be incredibly authentic and flavorful."

"I found the pickled fish to be fresh and flavorful."

"I thought the mapo tofu here was some of the best."

Good to know

1

Valet parking at the plaza costs $4.

2

Dine-in and takeout options are available.

3

The menu is limited, likely due to the soft opening.

20
Twilight Lounge 朝暮 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy space blends contemporary decor with warmth for soft conversation. Classic Mapo Tofu offers fluffy tofu with rich sauce and meat, showcasing authentic flavors. Perfect for casual dates or quiet meals with an intimate vibe.

Classic Mapo Tofu features fluffy, flavorful tofu that melts in your mouth and is well-coated in sauce. It includes meat, adding to its authentic taste and careful preparation.

People are saying

"The Lunch Spot staff, especially Wan, were so kind and professional."

"I loved the rich Duck Fried Rice, it was perfectly cooked."

"The Mapo Tofu here is amazing and authentic."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 6 pm, including weekends, with a small selection of beer, wine, and sake.

2

The restaurant offers a solid lunch special that is popular among locals.

3

The dining area can get chilly due to strong air conditioning; dress accordingly.

21
808 Cafe image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot offers authentic dishes with generous portions and reasonable prices. Mapo Tofu varies but often shows authentic flavors. Seating is limited but the vibe stays pleasant and comfortable.

Mapo Tofu here shows authentic flavors similar to dishes from China but also varies in preparation compared to other spots. Some versions come off as average, so quality can differ.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is amazingly delicious and homemade."

"I loved the Thai iced tea because they use freshly brewed tea."

"I found the Mapo Tofu delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is open late on weekends.

2

There is ample parking available.

3

The prices at 808 Cafe are very reasonable.

22
许厨 Xu Chu image 1
Sichuan restaurant

Small, cramped space with authentic Sichuan cuisine offers large, spicy portions. Mapo tofu pairs well with hearty dishes like beef noodles and duck blood stew. BYOB policy and lively, loud atmosphere create a relaxed, low-key vibe.

Mapo tofu comes alongside dishes like cucumbers and beef noodles or with clam special, duck blood stew, and tomato with eggs. It fits well with a variety of hearty, savory options.

People are saying

"I found authentic Sichuan cuisine here."

"The flavors here are delicious and the portions are huge."

"The Mapo Tofu portions were massive, you get so much food."

Good to know

1

For 7 people, ordering 5 dishes is sufficient to feel very full.

2

The portions are huge and prices are reasonable.

3

Expect to wait for a table if you arrive late on weekends.

23
Dongpo Impression image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bold and authentic Sichuan flavors shine with numbing peppercorn sauce in the mapo tofu. Simple, clean interior creates a calm atmosphere despite busy surroundings. Great vegetarian options come with free jasmine tea, making it a balanced dining choice.

Rich numbing peppercorn sauce defines the mapo tofu here, paired with excellent quality tofu. The dish stands out for its bold flavors and satisfying texture.

People are saying

"The Sichuan Chinese food here is so authentic and flavorful."

"The Mapo Tofu's numbing peppercorn sauce was euphoric."

"The bathroom was a beautiful and very clean surprise."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a wide variety of Sichuan dishes with vegetarian options.

2

Rice is included with most dishes, along with complimentary jasmine tea.

3

Expect bold flavors and a spicy dry chili seasoning in many dishes.

24
Taste of Shaxian image 1
Chinese restaurant

Bright, spacious interior with an orange theme creates a cozy vibe. Authentic Chinese cuisine shines with creamy Mapo Tofu that has a perfect spicy kick. Kid friendly with natural lighting and soft background music adds to the peaceful atmosphere.

Creamy texture stands out with a consistent spicy kick that adds just enough heat. The dish balances comforting creaminess and a wonderful spicy edge.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese food here to be really authentic."

"The dumplings have tender skins and juicy, well-balanced filling."

"The Mapo Tofu is crispy and sweet."

Good to know

1

Parking is available west of El Camino Real, making it easy to find a spot.

2

A QR code ordering system is in place for customers to place their orders.

3

The restaurant offers vegetarian options on the menu.

25
SzeChuan Alley 成都巷子 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Enjoy authentic Sichuan flavors in a cozy, lively spot with a family vibe. Mapo Tofu shines with balanced ma flavor and pairs perfectly with rice. The bustling kitchen adds to the unpolished charm of this comfortable, crowded space.

Mapo Tofu features a well-balanced ‘ma’ flavor and consistent seasoning. It pairs well with rice and stands out alongside dishes like dan dan noodles.

People are saying

"The Szechuan food here is so authentic and delicious."

"The Mapo Tofu has that legit numbing-tingle flavor."

"I loved their spicy chicken; it was crispy and tender."

Good to know

1

The chef is from Chengdu, and his cooking reflects that.

2

They allow customers to bring their own alcohol (BYOB).

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other Chinese restaurants in the area.

26
Moon Wok image 1
Chinese restaurant

Cozy spot offers authentic Chinese flavors with a casual vibe and upbeat music. Mapo tofu shines with a just right spicy kick and no meat. Bibimbap version is especially delicious. Generous portions make it great for takeout or dine-in.

Mapo tofu comes with a just right spicy kick and is served without meat. The bibimbap version stands out as especially delicious.

People are saying

"The Chinese food service here is so attentive and professional."

"The soup dumplings are so juicy with perfectly thick skin."

"The Mapo Tofu here is flavorful and just the right amount of spicy."

Good to know

1

They are starting a special promotion next weekend that includes a free dessert.

2

The lunch specials are reasonably priced for the portion size and quality of food.

3

The portions are large and offer good value.

27
Lucky Noodle image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Open kitchen shows fresh noodle making in a stylish, soothing space like a Taiwanese tea house. Spicy Mapo Tofu with rice is a top dish, perfect with Xiao Long Bao and Zha Jiang Mian. Family-friendly setting offers authentic silverware and elegant tableware for a comfortable meal.

Spicy and flavorful, the Mapo Tofu comes with rice and stands out as a top dish. It pairs well with other items like Xiao Long Bao and Zha Jiang Mian, making it a solid choice for a meal.

People are saying

"The handmade soup dumplings were worth the wait."

"The tea here is so flavorful and perfectly spiced."

"The Mapo Tofu here is amazing and spicy."

Good to know

1

During the soft opening, customers receive an extra 20% off until November 20th.

2

Plentiful parking is available near the restaurant.

3

The restaurant offers generous portions at reasonable prices.

28
XPP Claypot (XiaoPoPo/肖婆婆砂锅) image 1

Bright, clean space blends modern flair with traditional Sichuan style. Mapo tofu offers rich flavor and balanced spice, paired well with a slightly sour fish pot. Cozy, friendly vibe suits families with non-spicy options and a curated playlist.

Mapo tofu stands out with its rich flavor and perfect balance of spice. It pairs well with dishes like the fish pot that has a slightly sour taste.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and freshly made."

"I found the Sichuan clay pot food to be authentic and comforting."

"I found the Mapo Tofu delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available.

2

The portion sizes are slightly small.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak hours.

29
Chuan Fu 川府 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Elegant Chinese restaurant offers a serene atmosphere with boujee decor and attentive service. Mapo Tofu is spicy and flavorful, perfectly balanced with heat and richness. Indoor and outdoor seating create a peaceful dining experience.

Spicy and flavorful, the Mapo Tofu stands out with its perfect balance of heat and rich taste. It pairs well with rice and often comes with extra pepper corns for added kick.

People are saying

"The fish here is fried to a crisp and delicious with the sauce."

"I loved the authentic, bold Szechuan flavors and spice."

"The Mapo Tofu here is phenomenal and perfectly spicy."

Good to know

1

Parking may be challenging as the restaurant shares a lot with a hotel.

2

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

3

The restaurant is not very kid-friendly due to the lack of changing tables.

30
Sichuan Impression 锦城里 image 1

Modern, stylish space offers a cozy vibe with elegant decor and private dining rooms for groups. Spicy, flavorful mapo tofu shines alongside bold lamb dishes. Authentic Sichuan energy blends with a lively yet relaxed setting.

Spicy flavorful mapo tofu stands out here, paired well with boiled fish and toothpick lamb. This spot serves some of the most notable mapo tofu and lamb dishes for those who enjoy bold tastes.

People are saying

"The Sichuan cuisine here is so authentic, with bold flavors and Chengdu freshness."

"The desserts here are amazing, especially the taro."

"I thought the mapo tofu was flavorful and spicy."

Good to know

1

The anniversary menu is available from November 1 to November 11.

2

Private rooms are available with a minimum spend of 800.

3

Parking is easy with a large lot across the street.

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