Mala Sichuan Bistro Brings The Heat To Montrose

Earlier this week, at the new inner loop construction site of Mala Sichuan Bistro, owners Cori Xiong and Heng Chen said that they could be open for business as soon as May 1. There are just a few modifications left inside and some work that needs to be finished up on the side patio.

For lovers of the Chinese restaurant, whose original eatery in Chinatown has been lauded as one of the best in Houston, this is good news indeed. The restaurant's dan dan noodles, dumplings in chili oil and cold noodles have earned many fans and all of them have been salivating since Mala’s announcement of its second location.

Situated in the corner pocket of the Westheimer Rd. and Montrose Boulevard shopping center that houses El Real Tex-Mex Cafe, the spot is the former home of Mo Mong and the short-lived Duo. Across the street from the award-winning Underbelly and just a stone’s throw from Uchi, the arrival of Mala will cement the area’s claim to one of the best restaurant rows in the city.

— Marene Gustin