There are several blocks of Kingsway where the street is dedicated to Chinese foods that will keep you warm on the last of these cold winter nights. Nestled among all the hot pot spots and spicy joints is the humble Lucky Noodle.

The name is a complete misnomer, as noodles are a rare sight. that is otherwise dedicated to the punchy, regional cuisine of Hunan province, which is often confused with Sichuan fare. While both are spicy, Hunanese food uses bright red chilies liberally, not to mention garlic. It’s also a touch on the oily side. What typifies it most of all is its use of smoked and cured meats.

Lucky Noodle has a hefty menu of rarities. I would suggest trying their “Mouth-Watering” Chicken; Chinese Bacon with Bamboo Shoots; Shredded Potatoes with Dried Chili; and their award-winning Stir-Fried Pork with White Chilies. Each plate has its own nuanced flavours and spice.

If you foresee trouble with the heat, either order a tall glass of soy milk to beat it or imagine Mark Wahlberg as Dirk Diggler in Boogie Nights screaming “feel, feel, feel, feel my heat.”

Oh, and make sure you and your dining companions get a “fan tong”, one of the red rice buckets that gets passed around the table.

Lucky Noodle | 3-3377 Kingsway, Vancouver | Cash Only | 604-430-8818 | No Website

AH, BUT HAVE YOU HEARD OF THESE?