Chewy hand-pulled noodles (or egg noodles, depending on availability) tossed with a rich sesame paste sauce, topped with minced spiced pork and a sprinkle of Sichuan peppercorns. The numbing heat builds as you eat. Reviewers consistently order this as a second dish if sharing.
The signature Sichuan dish: soft tofu cubes in a chile-oil sauce with ground pork and aromatics. The Sichuan peppercorns create a numbing sensation (málà) that's characteristic of the region. Reviewers note the sauce is rich without being oily—the kitchen shows restraint. Fully vegetarian version available by request.
Tips from diners
Order spice level 3 or 4 to get the full málà effect. Levels 1–2 don't deliver the numbing peppercorn experience the dish is known for.
Start at spice level 1 if you're not used to Sichuan heat. You can always escalate on future visits.
A Sichuan classic: tender chicken pieces combined with roasted peanuts and red chiles in a balanced sauce that's sweet, salty, and spicy. The peanut texture provides contrast. Reviewers note the chicken is properly cooked—not rubbery—and the peanuts stay crisp. Available in spice levels 1–4.
Whole dried chiles and peppercorns coat the crispy chicken pieces. The heat is front-loaded—you bite into the dried chiles. Not for the faint of heart. Reviewers who order this typically go spice level 4 and understand what they're getting into. Finishing the dish requires picking through the chiles.
Crunchy exterior encasing a vegetable filling. The sweet-and-sour dipping sauce balances the fried richness. Not spicy—often ordered as a cool-down dish if the mains are too hot.
Au Piment de Sichuan is a casual Chinese restaurant near the Opéra métro in the 9th arrondissement, serving authentic Sichuan cuisine with bold heat and umami flavors. Dishes are fast, prices are modest (€16.90 lunch menu), and diners can customize spice levels from 1 (mild) to 4 (mouth-numbing heat). The kitchen balances numbing Sichuan peppercorns with fresh vegetable-forward dishes. Reviewers note the speed of service—food arrives hot and quickly—making it ideal for lunch or quick dinner.
The €16.90 lunch menu includes an appetizer and a main. Good value. Evening prices are à la carte and slightly higher.
Spice levels 1–4 allow you to customize. Level 1 is mildly spicy, Level 4 creates significant numbing from Sichuan peppercorns. Ask staff if unsure.
Fast service means you can eat lunch in 30–40 minutes. Tables turn over quickly, so come early if you want a relaxed meal.
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